Members attending: Mark Garrod, Michelle Harvie, Margaret Williams, Frank Williams, Sabina Cosulich, Andrew Croughton, Duncan Lee.

Potential members: Kirsteen Young, Anne Shaw, Bill Hamilton. `

The original meet leader was Tony Gask, but unfortunately Tony ducked out; some story of having to go bird-watching or whatever. However, we would never snipe at such misfortune, as Tony was with us in spirit if not in body.

Friday saw 6 of us installed at the hut, which for those who missed out, is wonderfully situated in the heart of the Arans. All 6, including Kirsteen, the new gull, swiftly set out on Saturday for a tern around the hills, initially puffin up steep slopes, crowing about the glorious weather. A stint of ridge-walking bought us into the Arans proper, where we had some eggcellent views. We then descended to the Llyn under Aran Fawddwy, where the dipper found shore-bound babblers (not even waders) and 2 blue tits.

On our return, we found Sabina and Duncan grousing about their awkward climb, an E2 called Keelhaul. Anne and Bill (harrier) Harrison also climbed, doing the classic Will-O-The-Wisp.

Plenty of warbling and larking was had that evening, with gannets and shovelers seen in the kitchen, but Sunday found us sick as parrots with low cloud and drizzle. Frank and Margaret headed off for the alternative technology centre, while Kirsteen, Andrew, M&M discovered a wonderful short valley walk nearby, followed by the diver being seen in Lake Bala. Sabina and Duncan headed east to sun-kissed crags.

CYM COWARCH, ARNS, MID WALES

The Arans hills are south of Bala lake, north of Dinas Mawddwy, where there is good walking and climbing. 12 places have been reserved at the Bryn Hafod hut, which is very close to Cym Cowarch, with routes of different grades (eg Dream Racer E2, 175m, *** and Willow o'The Wisp, HVD 310m, ***) My book, Paul Williams, Rock Climbing in Snowdonia, 1994 edition, includes a double page illustration showing hut and crag. Lots of walking too. So you best come. By the way the hut is about ¾ mile walk from the parking area, so Character is ensured! £3 per night.