Remembering an Old Friend

It’s been 10 years since Bill died.  He was the club’s heart and soul and he probably had more influence over the running and direction of the club than any other member.  There is a significant gap in the club that has been left behind; Bill left big shoes to fill.

On the tenth anniversary of Bill's passing I thought that we should do something to honour his memory.  I suggested a walk starting at our hut and heading up Moel Eilio would be appropriate as the hut was a focal point of Bill's life and he had probably walked to the summit of Eilio more times than anyone would care to suggest.

Although the day of the anniversary fell on a Tuesday most of Bill's contemporaries would be retired and it would not be too much of an inconvenience to attend.  Ten of us gathered at the hut in poor weather and a worse forecast so suggestions to amend the itinerary gathered support.  Predicted 50mph winds, poor visibility and heavy rain convinced us to stay low and initially head for Penceunant Isaf just above Llanberis at the foot of Snowdon's Llanberis path.

We went uphill first before traversing Eilio's lower slopes and following the path to the derelict Hebron chapel.  The weather forecast was accurate and we reached the tea rooms to order coffee and bara brith.

Following a leisurely rest we once again donned waterproofs and walked down to the town and then across to Vivian quarry where we remembered some of Bill's stories and the routes he climbed.  We headed into Padarn Country Park, stopping to admire the horns and long fleeces of a flock of feral goats, but not their smell!  At the old quarry hospital we tucked into our packed lunches although when the rain came again we hastily retreated into the old mortuary!  Once the rain had stopped we strolled back to the hut.

Although the weather was not brilliant we managed to reminisce about our times with Bill, recalling some of our favourite stories.  I'm glad that we had made the effort and it was gratifying to know that Bill is much missed but fondly remembered by his friends and club mates.

Foel Goch & Moel Eilio from Padarn Country Park