We have just returned from a day of climbing at Brimham Rocks with Cliff from Roxcool as the instructor. We set off at half eight this morning and had a full fun packed day, not leaving until half 5 PM this evening. We started with a warm up which resulted in two of our group falling over before it the day even began. I think at this point, Cliff started to realise what kind of day he was in for climbing with three of the clumsiest people possible. The next events were climbing up the rock faces and different routes. It was our first attempt at outdoor climbing and none of us knew what to expect. However, Cliff was fantastic at explain things and encouraged us the whole way through the day, which resulted in us being able to achieve every climb and even an abseil thrown in for fun. At our first rock area, our day got ambushed by a group of children and their instructors who took nearly all the routes. However, Cliff still managed to find us routes and sit for ages while we attempted the climbs. Dinner time was next which consisted of a little walk from the first set of rocks to a nice grassy area and a nice relaxation and a chat. After dinner, we did the abseil. Again, Cliff was a very patient instructor and didnt laugh too much when we were all sitting as far away from the edge as possible. We descended the rocks a couple of times while Cliff let us hang for a while he snapped away with his usual companion for the day, his camera. After the abseil, we then completed another two climbs followed by an ice cream at the top before the walk to the car. The day exceeded all our expectations and I would highly recommend undertaking the experience. We will definitely be booking more courses with Cliff in the future......only the other two dont want to hear Jonny Cash in the car on the journey home ever again!! Written by Laura Humble AKA The Birthday Girl

Good weather day 1 but day 2 turned out to be rather wet....but this did not stop the guys from having a great day.

Glorious (possibly too hot if that is possible)weather helped make this a memorable course

Another successful trip to the magnificent climbing arena at Ratho. The Schmoolz Company is always made to feel welcome by both the staff and the visiting climbers every time we visit. For some reason the girls were way more interested in giving the Schmoolz ago today…with a dismal display by the guys . For those of you still not familiar with the EIAC (Ratho) it’s definitely worth a visit…there is enough there to keep you entertained all day, just make sure you are strong before going to ensure you get value for money!! http://www.eica-ratho.com/ Just so you are all aware….the boys from the team are working frantically to get our website up and running where you will be able to buy Schmoolz direct as well as get information about the tools and where they are being used. If you have been using the tools then please drop us a line and let us know how you’ve got on. Had some great feedback from a guy today at Ratho who said the Schmoolz were by far the best indoor dry tools he had used and much better simulated the feel of an ice axe….but I’m sure I don’t need to tell you guys that huh!?

The five training candidates all enjoyed the training course and its demands. For most this was dealing with sleep deprivation after a long day/ night up on Baysdale moor...the 01.30hrs finish didn't help. For the first WGL hosted by Roxcool I think in general it was very successful. Our base at the local Charity HQ of Daisy Chain added great value to and excellent course. My thanks must also go to the other trainer working on the course Simon...his calm un hassled approach was excellent.