ROSSENDALE PROBUS CLUB

STEVEN Edmundson gave an illustrated talk on ‘The Haute Route’, the high level trekking route in the Alps near the Swiss border with France and Italy.

Steven was accompanied on the walk by his 21-year-old son, four other hikers and a young female guide.

The walk started from Argentiere near Chamonix and finished at Zermatt.

The route took them across several glaciated valleys at levels between 1,000 metres and 3,000 metres.

Many of the glaciated and snow surfaces were treacherous and numerous crevasses had to be crossed.

Some downward slopes were so severe that the group, roped together at most times, had to step sideways in order to avoid slipping uncontrollably.

Occasionally the track was obscured and navigation had to be done by compass.

Days started as early as 4am and often did not finish until 6pm. A hundred miles was traversed in 14 days, staying overnight in remote stone built huts in the mountains. The photographic record was comprehensive and spectacular.

The next meeting will be on Wednesday, September 13 in the Masonic Hall, near St Mary’s Chambers, Rawtenstall.

Peter Robson will give a talk on the ‘Driving Test’. The talk will start at 10.30am, coffee/tea will be available from 10am and prospective new members will be most welcome.