Printed by DALE PRINTING SERVICE CO., Bamford House, Millgate, Stockport.
President:
Alderman W Melland, J.P.
Vice-Presidents:
G. Richardson
Hon. Consulting Solicitor: R. Ritchie.
Hon. Auditor: H. Astles.
Hon. Librarian: W. Smith.
Hon. Social Secretary: S. W. Roberts.
Hon. Press Secretary: H. Briercliffe.
Hon. Claims Secretary: A. Norman Wood.
Hon Treasurer: B. C. Young.
Chairman: W. H. Harrison.
Hon. Secretary: F. A. Newey,
418, Eccles New Road, Weaste, Salford 5.
Hon. Assistant Secretary: N. Hughes.
Hon. Editor: J.L. Irvin, B.Sc.Tech.
23, Dobroyd Street, Hr. Crumpsall, Manchester, 8.
It is with very great satisfaction that our Committee are able to produce this monthly Magazine, which is replacing the gap left by the cessation of our old “Supplement to the C.T.C. Gazette” which had a long run of 18 years. We are still convinced that its withdrawal was an unfortunate mistake.
We hope to number many non-members of the Club amongst our readers, who will be brought to realise the conveniences and advantages which are the result of membership. It must not be thought that because of this our chief object is that abhorrent modern word—Propaganda. This is not so. We wish to make the District Association a reality rather than a mere agglomeration of unit sections, to inject fresh life into our least virile offspring, and to keep in touch with all our old members and friends.
The use of the printed word can play a very important part in the well-being or destruction of any enterprise, and we want all our sections particularly to feel proud that they belong to the Manchester D.A., and to realise the help which the “Northern Wheel” can afford them. We are glad to note that the Middleton Section has been reformed, and wish its sponsors every success. It is hoped that the former Mid-Cheshire Section may be revived, a fact which will depend on the enthusiasm of individual members in that area.
Our printer, Mr. Dale, of the Dale Printing Service Co., has played a lion’s part in this production, and all our thanks are due to him and his staff for the results. I do not say this merely because it is the usual or polite thing to do.
Criticisms will always be considered, and the correspondence column will be used for the views of readers. Any contributions to the literary matter will be welcome, as well as giving the Editor a surprise. I have no doubt that we shall have a few staunch supporters but remember that “variety is the spice of life.”
It is unfortunate from a continuity point of view that I have to relinquish my office at this stage for business reasons, and I would like to take this opportunity of wishing my successor, readers and the Magazine the very best of luck. Here’s to the future!
I am glad that, as President, I have been given the opportunity of writing a Foreword to this, the opening issue of the new D.A. Magazine—“The Northern Wheel”. When I first heard that our leaflet was going to be banned from appearance in the Gazette I felt that really something ought to be done about it, as I attach the utmost value to our D.A. possessing some means of circulating its general notes and the announcement of its many activities among its widely spread members and non-members. When we realise that each issue of this Magazine will reach about 2,000 cyclists, we can then form some sort of idea as to the far reaching nature of its influence. Many people are prone in these days to confine their interests in life to their immediate neighbourhood and local affairs, but there is now a happily increasing tendancy to think and legislate more on regional lines; we are a good example of this as our activities extend from Bury, Rochdale, Oldham to Ashton, Stockport, Macclesfield, Northwich and Altrincham, forming as it were a circle round the principle centres of Manchester and Salford.
It is good to know that it has been decided to send the magazine to non-members as well as to members. This makes for excellent propaganda and consequent increased membership.
The regulations that are now being suggested by the Government with regard to traffic, and more especially to those dealing with cyclists, show the immense importance of all cyclists acting as one body to protect their principal interests; added strength always results from joint action.
It is not for me, nor is it the occasion, to sing of the virtues and the many joys of cycling; that indeed would be pushing at an open door and preaching to the already converted, and it suffices to say it has long seemed to me that among the, shall I say, minor inventions of the ages, cycling brings the maximum amount of usefulness, good fellowship, and joy.
And so first this edition of new Magazine acts as a welcome to not only all the members of the D.A but to the cycling fraternity as a whole, coupled with a hope that all who value and practise this sport will lend a hand in helping the “Northern Wheel” to go forward from strength to strength.
That was an eventful evening one July towards the close of last century, when H. M. Oxley, J. Piers, J, Sutcliffe, Holland, Owen, J. Wilson and myself met together in a room in Deansgate, and considered various schemes for forming the local members of the C.T.C. into a District Association. Further pow-wows took place, and at last it was decided to make application to the council for recognition. This was granted, and so did the Manchester D.A. come into existence. Thus it was formed on a firm foundation, and never once through all the years has it looked back. In fact it has been very successful, and is now the proud father of a numerous and healthy offspring.
And throughout its career the M.D.A. has been well served by its numerous officers. Their names are enrolled in the minute books of the Association, and it is well that they should not be forgotten.
The M.D.A. has also been well served by its representative on the Council. Many a time and oft has the Association been attacked, and just as often have the attacks been warded off, and the Association has emerged scatheless, except on one occasion, and that of recent date. The object of attack this time was the famous “Supplement” which, from its birth in 1917, had had a successful career, though occasionally a somewhat stormy one. After a fierce struggle for existence it has now joined what is sometimes called the great majority.
But even as the caterpillar changes into a butterfly, so the late lamented is renewing its life, and let us hope that its flight will be long and powerful and continuous. A well-conducted Magazine such as this is going to be, is a splendid medium for inter-communication amongst our East Lancashire members, and for maintaining the team spirit which is so essential to success. My cycling experiences are ever a glorious memory, and I wish that the same joy on the open road that I have had, may be the lot of every member of the Manchester District Association. That the new Magazine may flourish exceedingly is the earnest wish of your old friend.
On the 30th June by way of a delightful change, one of our stalwarts — Mr. Stanley Harrison — led the Section (including the girls) to the Lady Lever Art Gallery at Port Sunlight, via the Runcorn Transporter Bridge and the Mersey Tunnel, which in themselves were exciting experiences.
The Art Gallery is worth a visit by anyone, and a whole afternoon can be spent looking over the rare tapestries, pictures, antique furniture, statues, etc.
The return was by way of the Wirral, Mickle-Trafford, and Great Budworth. Total mileage 90.
An answer to our critics who maintain the Section is too “easy going”.
A new “site” has been found for the free wheel contest, near Burbage. There is positively no danger, and all the girls can enter. Entrance fee 2d., and a Barts’ half-inch map as prize.
The competition is strictly limited to members of the Section.
Keep the date in mind. September 8th. Punctual start from Marlborough Road, 9-45 a.m.
The “100 in 7” will be held on September 8th, meeting at Charlestown Station at 7 a.m. to ride out to the starting point (which will be given in the August issue). The entrance fee is 1/- and certificates will be awarded to the successful competitors.
Names required before the 3rd September
A novel event will be held by “Nobleman” on one of the “Loiterers” runs during September, the prize being a Barts’ map. The date of the run will not be disclosed.
Twenty-six members attended the mystery night ride, and Mr. E. Blodwell won the free breakfast for guessing the breakfast place.
Please note that short Saturday afternoon runs are now being held.
The membership of the Section has increased greatly during the past month or two, and the weekly turnout is averaging round the 18 mark.
The run to Llangollen proved to be exceedingly popular, a full afternoon in this pretty Welsh town and environments being greatly appreciated by the club.
One of the members, by the way, spent the whole afternoon having his gear control soldered and fixed up again.
The return journey was made via Chirk and Ellesmere, and we finished the day with a round total of 130 miles.
The holiday season is with us again and almost every week familiar faces have left our ranks for the annual jaunt, to return, sunburnt and with a host of happy memories that only our glorious pastime can bring.
The Manchester Section 24 hour ride will have been held on July 20/21 over the usual Shropshire course. The start was made at 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 20th from East Didsbury Station. The Manchester Loiterers Sub-Section recently held a night ride to Llangollen on July 13/14th, meeting at 10 p.m.
After a period of over two years, the Middleton Section has been re-formed, and shows promise of much activity in the near future.
The Inaugural Meeting was held on Tuesday evening, the 11th of June at 8 p.m. at which a Hon. Secretary, Hon. Treasurer and Committee were elected.
The first run of the Section was held on Sunday, June 30th, the venue being “Three Shires Head”. Sixteen riders enjoyed a very good day and the run was voted a huge success. On July 6/7th, Mr. Hudson lead the run, which took the form of a Potholing week-end in the Craven district.
The Committee would welcome any suggestions with regard to the successful working of the Section, and asks for the support of the local members. They have under review, a scheme for the weekly collection of Subscriptions to help those members and prospective members to whom the finding of ten shillings is a real effort. Why not help the Section and at the same time help yourself? The Hon. Section Secretary, Mr. J. Partington, 82, Green Street, Middleton, will be pleased to give any information on this or any other subject concerning the Section.
We are holding a special general meeting of the Section on Friday, August 16 at 8 p.m. at the club room over the “Guide” publishing office in Earl Street, Heaton Park, to consider proposals for establishing a club room at these premises, the meetings to be weekly on Monday or Friday. The question of a club room has been before the Section for a good many years now and at last we shall have some concrete proposals to lay before the members. Please make a point of coming to this very important meeting.
Although it has been in operation for only a month our Treasurer reports that he has already received over ten shillings in aid of the Section’s appeal for the Headquarters Defence Fund. Not bad going, but if we are to gain the maximum benefit from the Club’s efforts we shall have to continue our support.
The Social Committee have made provisional arrangements for the usual bonfire at Grane on Saturday, November 2nd, further particulars will be announced as they come to hand. Arrangements are also in hand for a lecture on Norway on Saturday October 12.
There will be meetings at the National Schools, Rectory Lane, Prestwich, on July 31 and August 28 at 8 p.m. All members are asked to attend.
It is a pleasure to again bring before the members of the Oldham Section, news and reports of the activities of the section, which has been lacking since the “D.A. Supplement” ceased publication last December.
It is to be hoped that the new Magazine, of which this is the first issue, will serve the useful purpose of creating an interest in D.A. and Section activities, and to this end I am sure you will wish the venture all the success it deserves.
What a week-end the camping section emoyed on their run to Cefn Rocks, N. Wales, last month. They had the unexpected pleasure of being shown round the kennels of the Flintshire foxhounds, after which they visited the well-known Cefn caves, which are usually closed to the public on Sundays.
Despite the fact that the various run sections are having good attendances on their runs, it will be a change to see one or two fresh names in the Runs Supplement as runs leaders. Why not lead for once, instead of being led. A little imagination, and what might have been a dull ride, will be one to remember. Have you no maps? Then borrow them from the Map library (free of charge to runs leaders), at twopence per week to private members, The runs secretaries are doing their best to arrange interesting runs each week-end, but it is up to you to give them your support and encourage them in their efforts.
What about that 24 hour ride you promised yourself? Well, here is the opportunity. On July 20/21 the Annual 24 Hour Ride will be held, again over the Welsh hills in the dawning. Who wants to see the dawn over the hills? If such a sight holds no attraction for you, then why cycle? One of the joys of cycling is the beholding of fresh outlooks, and here is the chance to see one. If you wish to enter notify the hon. sec. Those who desire a full breakfast must give their names in ten days before the event plus 1/- deposit. Start 6 p.m. from the Grand Theatre, entrance fee 6d.
What about your subs, for next year, don’t wait until the end of the year, start paying what you wish to Mr. Fred Longley.
Have you seen the clubroom after the decorations, come up on Tuesdays and Thursdays and be soothed by the brilliant colour scheme. If this doesn’t soothe then try our coffee, prepared by the one and only “Percy.”
Rochdale Rhetoric—Copies of “The Northern Wheel” may be obtained from Messrs. Briercliffe, Ashton, and Daker at the addresses in the green inset, or from Mr. A. Sharrocks, 3, Queen Street, Littleborough.
We shall have to issue a reprimand to our distinguished camp follower (he was—always preferred a barn to a tent) Mr. A. Horsfall, better know as “Hebden”. After our efforts to rescue the youth from the handicap of Yorkshire ways (very) and accent, he now appears in “Cycling” as a substitute for the fair maids who have so long adorned the advertisements. Not that we did not make him rather more handsome, or picture that chin and quiff in our brief candle, “Alpka”, or stand by him when Malham profiteers wanted 6d. instead of 3d. for a camp-site, or thank him when he tried to drop a boulder on our respected Secretary, or curse him the less when he dodged washing-up work in a hostel, or lose his Presidency of the Bachelor’s Club with one wallop. We can forgive all these. But to appear in “Cycling” as an inducement for a certain make of bicycle—this is too, too, much. Our efforts at reform have failed. The Tyke blood remains. We shall not repine, but remember that he was always a Yorkshireman.
Our people will be glad to learn that Mr. Daker, our sole representative of the “elder brethren” and a member of the “Austumn Tints” is now abroad and well after his recent spill. Laurence Hogan has recovered from the heart attack, and Treasurer Sharracks can now move about comfortably.
The “24” had a mere six riders all starting, all finishing. These were Messrs. J. E. Brown, H. Briercliffe, E. Dania, J. Kennedy, H. Kershaw, and Miss A. Wilkinson. The North Yorkshire course was not too difficult, but the heat made us sweat at 3 a.m. as much as in the day. Breakfast at Chantry Farm, West Witton, was like a repast from a saga. Next year more should ride in this extended Club run. It’s fine sport.
The Mouldsworth Rally brought full honours to Rochdale. In the Camping Sports every event came our way. And in Sunday’s events we just whacked those old rivals, Oldham Section, by an odd point for the W. H. Harrison Rose Bowl Set. By this time it should be reposing in the Art Gallery. So if you want to give Auntie a treat and show her what the section can do—show her round.
Treasurer Sharrocks has the new subscription scheme in hand. Briefly, it is a means whereby the 10/- can be paid in advance by instalments. Ask him all about it. He will be delighted to explain.
Camping attendances have been good of late, June having an average of thirteen per run. “Sammy” Ashton, the imperturbable Camping and Hostel Secretary, will be glad to have runs. Shower them on him please!
Dances, lectures, potato-pie suppers and the like are all in the programme for the coming winter. So far as possible these are being arranged so that they will not conflict with the active week-ending programme.
The mid-week trips to catering houses are proving popular. The August one, restriction to that number is because of the holidays, is on the 28th, and is to Mrs. Wilson’s, Lake Bank, Hollingworth. Come along!
Salford section recently held an enjoyable night ride to the Dukeries. The ride during the early hours being quite warm, as it coincided with the recent heat wave.
In the morning we visited Welbeck Abbey with its Tunnels, the afternoon being devoted to ratholes round Dore and Stanedge Moor.
Our latest hostel week-end was a visit to Ilam Hall, a newly opened hostel equipped with all modern conveniences, and situated in ideal country.
We paid an enjoyable visit to Alton Towers next morning, the beautiful gardens being comparatively quiet, and not over-run with trippers. Although we only rode about 20 miles in the afternoon, the gradients round Onecote, Elkstone, and Axe Edge were stiff, and no one objected to a stop for tea at Flash. After partaking of the meal, we had a good freewheel to Allgreave, on to Macclesfield and thence home.
The Sports Day is being held at Croft Cottage on August 25th, so roll up, and make it the success of previous years.
On September 8th we are holding a 100 in 8 and 100 in 7 hours Tourist Time Trials—see runs list or further particulars from the respective leaders.
See Britain first! With the exception of a lucky few, it is circumstance rather than choice which binds us to follow this slogan. Lest the pangs of disappointment at the loss of the beauties of the Continent reduce us to a state of unwilling acceptance of our lot, may I put forward my experience? I cannot be criticised by devotees of Continental travel as not knowing what I am talking about, as I have cycled in France, Austria, Italy and Switzerland.
To take a plunge—into the deep end at that. It is my well-considered opinion that there is no stretch of country of the same area that can approach the wonderful varied beauty of that well-known corner of England—The English Lake District. There are lakes more lovely and mountains far more imposing, but not collected together in such a way. It can rain much more heavily in India, but the stuff in the Lakes is pretty solid! The best time for a visit is May, otherwise November or Christmas. Why November? Try it and see! The glory of dying bracken has to be seen to be believed.
A word for the N. W. Highlands of Scotland. Here we can find any type of scenery, from the jagged magnificence of the Cuillen mountains of Skye to the enchanting beauty of Loch Maree and Loch Broom. The Cuillens deserve especial mention. Though I have stood in awe beneath the terrific precipices of the Matterhorn, and seen the late evening sun bringing out fire from the magnificent sheer buttresses of the Dolomites, I can truthfully say that one of the most memorable sights of my life has been of the dawn from the Cuillen Ridge. It defies description. No man could possibly put pen to paper on a subject such as this to do it justice.
The An Teallach Ridge compares favourably, although definitely inferior, Crib Goch, Snowdon, though fine, is simply out of the running altogether, of the lochs, I have mentioned lochs Broom and Maree, and I place these first and second in order of merit, with the north end of Lock Lomond third. This is dangerous ground and so I will leave it.
The coast scenery of Cornwall and North Devon is only approached by parts of the Isle of Man, whilst the waterfalls and wild Sweeping hills of mid-Wales can never fail to satisfy the wandering cyclist. The grand mountains of Snowdonia, coming north again, need no introduction to most of our readers, although best seen at other times than on Bank-Holidays.
Where do the hills and dales of our own Pennines come into the picture? Where do the peaceful charms of the Cotswold take their place? Oh, why go abroad, my friends? There are beauties enough at hand if you have the eyes to see and the heart to understand!
Switzerland! What pictures does this name bring to mind? … Norway! Has that long chequered coast-line no attraction to the exploring nature of your thoughts? “Yes, but … what about the cost?” etc., etc. If you cannot afford £10, then the Continent may be denied you, but many who can afford this sum are content to stay at home. The plain truth is that there is a lack of the necessary courage. “I can’t speak the language.” What odds? Though an advantage, it is not a necessity and the experience gained is invaluable. Why? Because there is a complete change of environment and atmosphere; not only the scenery, but the people, customs, buildings, and even the air breathed is different. The difference is subtle, but there nevertheless.
Strada Dolomitica … Passo del Steliro … Lago di Lugano … Innsbruck … ! What names to conjure with! To go the length of the Dolomite road is to enjoy an unforgetable experience, especially if the section including the lovely lake of Misurina is included.
The Stelvio, rejoicing in the proud position of being the highest road pass in Europe, climbs by a long series of Alpine hairpin bends to a height of 9,100 feet amongst the Ortler Alps. It is amazing to think that this road is now over a 100 years old, having been con- structed in 1820/5 by the Austrian Government. As a result of the War, it is in Italian hands. Although the hairpins far outnumber those of any other Alpine pass, they are excelled in sheer magnificence by those on the Splügen, a section of which climbs up a cliff-face. Those who attended the ‘Hodites’ lecture three years ago will remember, perhaps, a slide showing this portion of the Splügen Pass.
The blue Italian Lakes are aptly named, and Lugano though just in South Switzerland, is a similar type, with semi-tropical plants flourishing in the shadow of that lovely hill San Salvatore, rising 1,000 feet from the water.
Again resorting to comparison, I think the Lake of Lucerne (Vierwaldstattersee), towards the Fluelen end, offers the most entrancing piece of lake scenery that I have ever seen, backed as it is by the 8,500 feet peak of the Bristenstock. The finest piece of mountain scenery is undoubtedly found centered on Zermatt, where giants such as the Matterhorn, Weisshorn and Dent Blanche are situate. Grindelwald also offers grand mountain scenery.
One rather enjoyable feature of Zermatt is the absence of the motor car with its trail of petrol pumps. There is no road up the valley, only a track up which an athletic cyclist may force his machine.
Switzerland cannot be exhausted in such few words as these. An important part in the enjoyment of a holiday is played by the cheery Swiss people, and by the cleanliness of the picturesque carved wooden dwellings. It is equally impossible to attempt a description of the fjords and mountains of Scandinavia in the space here available. Perhaps the indulgence of the Editor may permit this to appear in a later issue. Don’t cramp yourself! Go abroad!
In extending a welcome to the new magazine and in titling these paragraphs “Northern”, I have been wondering why Lancashire and Yorkshire people always consider themselves as of the north. One of my best cycling acquaintances, who is a West Midlander and perhaps the best rider of a “24” in—I nearly wrote the “north”—these parts maintains that Manchester is not “north.” Newcastle is “north,” Carlisle is “north,” but Manchester is … Who shall say where Manchester lies? A Londoner, with all that trite confidence of a Metropolitan, refers to all points north of London as “the North.” A Birmingham man still calls us “Northerners.” But a Glasgow lad will refer to Manchester as the South, and calls touring in the Lake District a southern jaunt, but as he comes from Scotland, which is a separate country, his word is hardly in consideration. Certainly, we are of the North of England, resident in one of the six northerly counties of schoolroom lore, or in one of the two which are next door to it. In a certain sturdiness of spirit and independence we are northern. Our riding is northern riding. We rejoice in the best scenic beauties of England—I refer to the Lake District—on our very doorstep, and at hand we have gems in the Yorkshire Dales and the Peak which a Londoner must chase across half the South to see its like. Let us keep the name of northerners, for it is a worthy one, and as cyclists congratulate ourselves on being at the very centre of affairs, scenic and politic.
Fashions change, and their change is largely, in my opinion at any rate, due to economic factors, which can include the economics of pleasure and convenience. In ten years, which marks the period of my C.T.C. life to date, tremendous changes have occurred in our methods and machines. Then the lightweight was just about commencing its later phenomenal universality. The fixed wheel was all the wear.
Some folks would put up with almost anything so long as it had dropped bars, some of them toe-stretching in their depth, a narrow saddle, a fixed cog, and a big gear. Some of those who were supposed to be “enlightened” were not much better. There were more weird sights down Knutsford way in those days than in these. Clothing was little better. Shorts were objects of derision, and for a girl to appear in this garment was regarded as not perfectly proper, even by her so-called emancipated sisters of the wheel. My transition to cycling shorts was easy, for as a schoolboy they were no change, although I do remember a retrograde period about 1927 when my circle had a move into plus-fours and check caps. The check cap period ended at Gunnerside, in Swaledale, when someone sat on eight eggs in someone’s best check cap! Camping was by no means as popular as to-day and hostels were unknown.
The depletion of pockets and the huge increase in the number of cyclists has wrought many changes. Shorts are well-nigh universal, and voluminous garments are now regarded with curiosity.
Camping and hostels have revolutionised week-ending and touring by permitting many who could never afford extended excursions at the high bed and breakfast rates prevailing then, and, unfortunately, remaining as a legacy into to-day. But I would not exchange these days, even if it were possible, for those. The factors which bring so many people out into the country on bicycles are not matters for the deploring but rather for the exploring, so that we might know how to extend the scope of the bicycle so that that simple machine may bring pleasure, to many thousands more.
It is surprising how few D.A. members use that very valuable service, the Map and Guide Library. The D.A. has what is perhaps the best Club library outside Craven Hill, and yet its usage is confined to a small number of members. Mr. J. Smith, 49, Normanby St., Moss Side, Manchester is the Librarian, and he will be glad to answer any applications for books. The maps and books are kept at the Y.M.C.A., 56, Peter Street, Manchester. Some members claim that it is rather difficult to obtain books, and I agree that if they were made more accessible, at a clubroom or even a catering house, more would be issued and the willingness of Mr. Smith would not be overtaxed. But then, the value of the library is so considerable that any change must receive careful consideration.
It was announced that the Middleton Section had been reformed at a meeting on the 11th June. The membership is about 28, and it is hoped that these keen members may soon gather many more round them. £1 was voted as an establishment grant.
A letter from H.O. was read to the effect that the D.A. could affiliate to the local branch of the Friends of the Lake District. A further letter stressing the importance of not proceeding further at the moment with public protest meetings was received. The sanction of the Council is necessary for such meetings, which might otherwise be ill-timed, and do more harm than good to the cyclists’ case. It was added that developments are continually taking place in London, and that the whole situation is under the close survey of a Council Watch Committee.
Section, Social, Magazine, Press and Y.H.A. reports were read. From the Social report, a profit of 11/6 on the Rally was announced.
The Rochdale Section, being the first holders of the W. H. Harrison Inter-Section Trophy, applied for permission to place this in the custody of the local Art Gallery and also for completion of the necessary insurance. It was decided that a running policy be effected by the D.A.
The resignation of the Hon. Editor was accepted with regret, and thanks were recorded for his work. A meeting of the Magazine Sub-Committee was called to elect a successor, and names were suggested.
It was announced that, in connection with the Presentation Fund, our late Secretary, Roland Ball, had chosen his gift, to consist of eight books of the “Highways and Byways” series.
From past meetings it might be of interest to record the following items :—
The joint exhibition with the Ramblers’ Federation and the Y.H.A. at Lewis’s will not be held this year.
Traffic signals at corner of Kingsway and Mosley Road, still under observation by the police.
HANDBOOK DETAILS.— Of 8,951 appointments offering overnight accommodation, 1,878 charge prices up to 3/6. Other figures are as follows — 3/6 to 5/- 4,776, 5/- to 6/6 1,665, over 6/6 2,347.
Our thanks for these figures are due to a member.
Application was made for forms in connection with the re-establishment of the Defence Fund.
Northwich Bye-pass. The secretary announced that he had sent forms containing the opinions of the C.T.C. to the cousul for the district. The consul had undertaken to distribute these to the Northwich Council.
Attendances at D. A. events — “Hodites” Lecture 535, Kuklos 300, Rally, June 1-2nd 400.
There were 126 tents at the Rally and 202 competitors in the events. W. H. Harrison Trophy won by Rochdale Section, Oldham occupying second place.
The Manchester Group announce the closure of the Nightingale’s Heath Charnock, Chorley. The experiment of having a hostel close to the towns seems to have been a failure, too much blame for which should not be apportioned to the Council. The lack of support is most probably due to the members going further afield for week-ends, in preference to staying too near to the scene of everyday life.
The usual “turnover” of membership has taken place for the first half-year of 1935 in the Manchester Group, only 56 per cent. being renewals. It must be remembered that a large number of members join only for holidays, or for some particular reason which arises possibly only in occasional years. It seems to me to be a little difficult of explanation, at least to account for such a high percentage of non-renewals. In our own D.A. some 20 per cent. of non-renewals is found. We hope that the “Northern Wheel” may reach eventually every member, and enable this percentage to be reduced.
The new High Cross Hostel, Troutbeck, Windermere had trouble with the water supplies durlng the Whitsuntide holidays, causing cancellation of bookings. It is to be hoped that this is now in order. The visitors to Thorney How, Grasmere, have increased on last year’s figures. The annex on Black Sail Hut has proved very useful, although partial re-roofing is now necessary of the main building. Although “Walkers Only” is opposite this hostel in the handbook it might be as well to state that cyclists are also welcome, although there is no accommodation under cover for cycles. Cyclists may, in fact, often be seen on the Scarth Gap and Black Sail Passes. I hear that the Lakeland Group are still looking out for a hostel in Wasdale. Here’s to success! I know that there are one or two difficult hurdles to be taken before one can be opened.
The Scottish Youth Hostels Association is adding two new hostels to those mentioned in the 1935 edition of the Scottish Youth Hostels Handbook. One of these hostels is at Dalmally, and was opened on Saturday 29th June. It is situated half a mile south of Dalmally station on the old Monument road to Cladich. The hostel commands a splendid view across the head of Loch Awe to Ben Cruachan. It will be open all the year and has a Resident Warden.
The first hostel in Ayrshire will be opened on July 13th. It is a brick building situated midway between Troon and the village of Loans. Access is obtained by the road leading to the Golf Course on the north side of the village of Loans. Excellent camping facilities are available in the hostel grounds, with special washing accommodation for campers. Bookings before 13th July should be sent to Mr. D. Blackwell, 45, George Street, Ayr.
The membership of the Association at the time of going to press is approximately 8,000. The number of beds is 1,812.
In the course of my wanderings, I have met many cyclists “on the rocks.” This is meant literally and not in the usually accepted sense due to the many peculiarities in our slang. In consequence, I make no apology for the introduction of this article. Perhaps, when the feelings of our readers have been sounded, we may be able to decide whether a regular feature would be acceptable.
It is very important to take practically no notice whatever of newspaper reports, unless written by an accredited exponent of the pastime. The reason of this is due to the fact that the sport lends itself very much to the lurid and sensational, which, alas, does nothing but harm. A photograph needs but little attention to make ordinary angle of steepness into a precipice. It is usual, also, to report in newspapers only acrobatic ascents by guides or first-class amateurs.
Where the newspaper excels itself, however, is in the magnificent and lavish headline displays announcing “CLIMBER KILLED ON—” thence proceeding on to a graphic inventory of the supposed happenings, which vary appreciably as a rule from the accounts published in the climbing club’s journals.
I can say in perfect truth that it is safer to complete a rock-climb, observing the usual safety measures, than it is to cross a busy street two or three times.
It cannot be too highly stressed that in connection with safety, newcomers to the game must not attempt any climb without having mastered the simple technique by the aid of a book or experienced leader. I myself have seen reckless and almost suicidal disregard of the proper technique, due to lack of knowledge, on one of the severe faces in Skye, which would be certain to end in disaster if persisted with for any length of time.
Again, many people attempt climbs above their standard. This may be due to injudicious promptings by companions. Where a slip may mean certain death, as on the severest climbs, personal vanities should be of no account. Far better to climb and run away and live to climb another day.