Traditionally done on Christmas day, we brought Christmas to Stanage early this year... Phil (left), Gaz (right) and I took advantage of the nice weather, bringing along Mince Pies, Brandy Butter, Cake, Hot Chocolate... and everything else you totally don't need to climb Christmas Crack normally!
Mince pies obviously need a table, so after knitting the crag to make a belay at two-thirds height, Gaz finds a ledge to make home from home...
We shared the goodwill and Christmas cheer with others on the crag; a friend of Phil's couldn't resist popping up for a mince pie... and a chap we met climbing on the route Central Trinity next to us seemed all too happy to pause whilst on the sharp end for the sake of a mince pie and brandy butter!
Obviously a whole lot of fun was had by all and surprisingly enough we weren't cold. The sun shone and gave us some fantastic views into the valley, where the mist seemed quite happy to stay. Apparently, Phil has designs on a roast next year... I have my reservations as I'm not sure the guys in Outside would like it if we borrowed the portaledge that hangs from their ceiling...!
