Return to organised club activities

As the covid emergency appears to be past its worst we are optimistic that we will soon be able to begin club activities. The timing of the following events aims to restart our club activities as government restrictions ease and to enable club members to confidently, safely and collectively emerge from our solitary hibernation.

Until the 17th of May there will be no formally organised Thursday night meetings. Following BMC guidelines club members may carry out activities and are encouraged to do so. A copy of the BMC guidelines can be found here https://www.thebmc.co.uk/covid19-restarting-club-meets. Members wishing to organise an event, no matter the scale, can communicate their idea via the Whatsapp group or website forum.

Thursday 20th of May – First dedicated club night meeting. The venue is yet to be decided, however, it is likely to be Almscliff crag or another local venue. Normal Thursday night meetings will continue thereafter with outdoor climbing venues nominated weekly or indoor climbing if the weather is not good enough.

Saturday 22nd of May – The Wainstones. Taking the form of a social day with climbing and/or walking and bring your own picnic. There is a large, free car park on the B1257 and off-road parking is available although it is suggested that an early start will help to secure a parking space since car sharing is still not allowed.

Weekend of the 3rd of July – Camping weekend in the Lake District. This is likely to be a self-booked event and the venue has yet to be decided. The site will ideally be easily accessible but central to climbing and walking and this year more options may be available with ‘pop up campsites’ being promoted by the local authority. Club members are welcome whether for the full weekend or any part thereof. It is expected that all social restrictions will be lifted on the 21st of June and car sharing will be allowed. Despite being ahead of the school holidays it is anticipated that all camp sites will be highly subscribed and more information on this proposed activity will be posted as soon as possible.

It would be helpful if club members and prospective members register their interest to participate in any club event. This is vital for any activity before the 21st of June. The Whatsapp group is particularly good for this, especially at late notice. This will ensure that we all stay safely within guidelines and the law by managing climbing or walking groups if needed.

Please feel free to comment or get in touch if you have any other suggestions. Fingers crossed for the nation’s continued progress against covid so we can look forward to York Mountaineering Club playing its part this summer in helping to deliver many worthwhile adventures.

Cheers all,
Dave Mannion
Meets Coordinator