We missed the start of a narrow ledge that transverses onto the east face. Nonetheless, we joined the east face higher up and went across the scree slopes from there. I have been climbing Errigal for a good number of years and I was pleasantly surprised to find a short gully in a line below the summit. This gully could, with a filling of snow and some ice, provide an enjoyable grade II or III winter climb. It is definitely for future reference. After traversing the scree slopes of the broad East face, we came to the base of the NNE Ridge (Most people call it the North West Ridge, but it is facing 10 degrees NNE). The mist had made the fun bits wet and slimy so we opted for the more loose, hairy and circuitous route. The top end of the ridge was a little drier and as always provided some good scrambling.

We had tea on the 2nd summit and were then joined with the usual suspects from the North West Mountaineering Club. Also, Stewart happened along or was it his twin. On our descent (the tourist route) we met Psyclone. He wanted to know where the 'Staircase' was so that he could climb it. I was tempted to join him but I gave him directions instead as I was beginning to visualise a nice pint in front of me. Next we met the Tees Management Committee on the way down. The trip to Scotland in February 2003 was quickly discussed and agreed. There ye go, the first warm up for 2003 and what a hill to do it on.

Slán agus beannácht

Columba