Snowdon - part 1

Well, Snowden was WET.

And considerably more of an adventure than I was planning. I’m not going to lie, I had envisaged a quick stroll, in glorious weather, up a small incline, a nice spot of tea, then home in time for (more) tea and medals.

Experienced mountaineers amongst you will notice that this plan was breaking one of the fundamental rules of mountaineering, that being, respect the mountain. So delightful though my plan was, Snowdon had other plans.

The weather was indeed glorious. Glorious in Gloucestershire, glorious in the Midlands, glorious even in Wales. As we approached Snowdon and the weather was still fine, the mountain clearly visible in front of us.

Mr Jack Munns Esq-

I really don't think that's Snowdon.

Mr Linsell-

Of course it is! It's mountainous isn't it?

Mr Jack Munns Esq-

By my map Snowdon should be just behind that mountain.

Mr Linsell-

I hardly think that likely, there's nothing behind that mountain but that large black cloud...

...ah. Well, this should be fun!

Indeed, lurking over Snowdon was a large and ominous, black cloud.

We arrived in the car park at the foot of the miners track and the pig track. We planned to take the pig track to the summit, then the miners track back down. After a quick spot of lunch the expedition party prepared for the ascent. As a quick reminder, the expedition party was composed of Mr Jack Munns Esq, noted physicist, Mr Tom Bridges Esq, noted actor, Mr Adam Booker Esq, noted restauranteur, and Mr Mark Booker Esq, noted model. Mr Adam Booker was demonstrating exceptional commitment as he had been working overnight for 11pm till 7 am, and had then jumped into the car to head to Snowdon at 9 am. This lack of sleep however may have had an adverse affect on Adam as he had neglected to bring a raincoat.

There were some slight spots of rain but we were not deterred as the party was gathered...

(From left to right - T. Bridges Esq, J. Munns Esq, A. Booker Esq, A. Linsell Esq. Photo by M. Booker Esq)

and then did ventured forth!

We set off, spirits high, up Snowdon. The spots of rain turned to drizzle and the table I had strapped to my back was slipping around. Yes, it was awkward, but the tea (earl grey and assam), china tea set, sandwiches (cucumber and smoked salmon) and cakes (ginger loaf and French fancies) we were carrying would need a proper support when we eventually took tea. We were also carrying a stove (optimistic), a thermos of hot water (realistic), and of course the Union Jack (patriotic)!

Little did we know how things were to proceed...

It's a good tale, and it deserves to be told properly come back next time for Snowden - Part 2!