This was one of those days that looked to be overcast and rainy so we primarily aimed for a scramble up Oaken Clough in the Peak District. However the forecast improved to the point that over breakfast we decided to risk it and go for a climb at Laddow
After an hours trek in, and a bit of bush-wacking through the foliage (yes, we didn't find the right path to the base of the crag - we should have gone past the top of the crag and taken a very good path down the far/right hand side that we found later)
Chris took the 1st lead of the day with Staircase (M), and made good progress on it.
We all topped out, although getting to the path did require a bit of scrambling, using a lifeline to ensure we all got there safely. We all found the climb quite enjoyable and worth it's 2* marking
Looking in the guide book, we decided North Wall (HS 4b) would be a good one to do next and I was the one to lead it.
It was a good climb, one loose rock on the way up which was a little off-putting but it was the overhang which gave me the most challenge. I spent ages getting a cam in the roof in just the right place (Trad really is a head-game!). Finally I was happy (enough) and gave a maximum effort pull to get up, which worked!
Chris and Robin followed up
By this time it was mid-afternoon and with about an hours walk back to the car park we packed up
