Fifth climber dies in Northern Corries tragedy

A Scottish corrie has claimed the life a fifth mountaineer in two months.The grim winter on Cairn Gorm continued with the death yesterday of a climber in the Coire an-t Sneachda – the same site as the previous four fatalities.The exceptionally mild winter has meant many winter climbing routes are not in good condition.

London bomb suspects 'took part in Langdale camp'

Five of the men on trial for plotting to bomb innocent Londoners had been under surveillance in the Lake District, a court was told.Woolwich Crown Court heard that pictures were taken of the group during a camping trip in Langdale, Cumbria, 14 months before the men’s failed attempt to detonate bombs on the capital’s transport system.The jury at the trial was shown pictures of the men, taken by police, of the alleged bombers dressed in outdoor gear and loading camping equipment into cars, with the Langdale fells as a backdrop.

No snow for Snowdon by 2020

Welsh scientists are warning that the principality’s highest mountain will be snow-free in 13 year’s time.There has been less snow this winter since recording began 14 years ago.

Warm winter hits Blacks' sales

Outdoor clothing and equipment retailer Blacks Leisure is suffering in the warm climate.The company, which trades under the Blacks, Millets, O’Neill, Free Spirit and Mambo names, issued a profit warning after warmer weather hit its sales.The company reported a 6% drop in sales in the pre-Christmas period, which led to an immediate drop in its share price of 8%.

Dales police target off-roaders

Police and national park rangers are clamping down on motorcyclists and drivers illegally using Yorkshire Dales bridleways and footpaths.Footpaths such as this one (right) near Blea Moor, are used illegally by off-roadersAnd they are urging walkers and cyclists to ‘grass up’ anyone they see abusing rights of way.

Olympic test at Hidden Earth

No need to wait until 2012, you can take part in the Olympics next week.For the first time, the British Cave Research Association is holding a Speleo-olympics at its Hidden Earth national caving conference and exhibition.

Cancer charity needs Corbett challengers

A cancer charity is looking for volunteers in its quest to conquer more than 200 Scottish mountains.Macmillan Cancer Support is hoping to raise cash by encouraging teams of two to scale each of the 219 Corbetts.The teams won’t be expected to tackle every summit, just to choose particular ones to climb.

All the best for 2007

Everyone at grough wishes our readers a happy and prosperous New Year.Here's hoping we'll be able to enjoy getting out on the fells and mountains just a little bit more and get lost just a little bit less: grough's twin resolutions.

Season's greetings from grough

All the staff at grough would like to wish you all a very happy and peaceful Christmas.We hope you've been good girls and boys and that Santa brings you lots of toys to enhance your enjoyment of the great outdoors.