As always the Burns meet provides a variety of different climbing and walking adventures. Snow covered the tops from about 500m but wasn't particularly consolidated.  Large drifts were in the gullies but in other places the coverage was somewhat sparse.

This year Andy Stratford and Bob Millard headed off to undertake Tower Gully which joins the top of the Gribin ridge and then a descent of the Gribin.  Meanwhile Heather, Vicki and Dave completed some more reconnaissance for Heather's Welsh 3000s walk.  Graham, Jo, Sam (aka Skittles), John, Fiona and George headed for Moel Hebog via Moel Yr Ogof. The view from Yr Ogof was not much over 10m and as such the ascent of Moel Hebog was ditched in favour of a snow ball fight and a Welsh cream tea.

The Burns evening itself was as normal very enjoyable despite a technical hitch when the projector stopped working.  No one got caught out in the blind whisky tasting by suggesting that the Tesco Value whisky was the best.  Instead opinions differed from the other options of Auchentoshan, House of Lords 10 Year Speyside, Talisker Dark Storm, Wild Turkey 81 and the Mackmyra Swedish whisky.

Sunday’s activities were again limited a little by the weather.  Most stuck close to the hut enjoying walks and runs in the local area.

Join me for the 4th annual burns night haggis dinner and whisky tasting at the hut. After your big day out on the hills I'll get the fire on and have a haggis caught / unearthed cooked, ready for dinner. After a filling supper we'll adjourn to the fire side and work our way through several very different whiskies; interspersed with various quotations, words of wisdom about the topic at hand and possibly a film. We'll also toast Jim's birthday. This year with added human guinea pig and possibly some QI style science! Estimated cost not including hut fees is about £20.

As always it'll be first come first served and I'll limit numbers to approx 25 (for logistical reasons) but will put together a reserve list. Please let me know by 5pm 6th January latest if you'd like to join me so that I can get appropriate provisions. Also let me know if you'd prefer you haggis caught (meaty) or unearthed (veggie). Obviously this is over 18s only for whisky drinkers. Non drinkers are equally welcome, the talk, film and photos are excellent. The hut is still available for members not taking part in the meet to use, but you should be aware there will be complete takeover of the kitchen and living room at various points on Saturday evening (there might be room to squeeze in a few extras to see the photos and films). Finally you should note that this, as always, is going to be a seriously good trip.