I want to reshare these memories of an old friend:
Barbara didn’t arrive at the Clan like most new climbers. She came following her husband’s death, accompanying her American granddaughter who wanted to climb while visiting for the funeral. Barbara knew Judith through morris dancing and came mainly for support.
We encouraged her to try climbing herself. To everyone’s surprise, especially her own, she made it to the top. She returned the next week, and the next, becoming a regular.
Early on, she approached me concerned about being a burden because she was learning to belay more slowly than others. I reassured her that we all support each other, learning at our own pace, and reminded her how she’d already contributed through her home-baked cakes. I encouraged her to keep learning and pay it forward.
When Covid hit, just as Barbara was starting her adventures with us, she found herself isolated in a house that felt empty without her husband. But she pushed through her tech fears to join our Zoom sessions, making new friends and strengthening Clan connections.
Barbara went on to master not just belaying, but lead belaying and even indoor lead climbing. She ventured outdoors with us and joined our sister caving group, exploring Bagshawe, Carlswark and Notts2. Windgather became her favourite crag, where I once watched in amazement as this 70-something climber followed me up a awkward VDiff.
Though not the most technically skilled climber, Barbara embodied exactly what the Clan needed ‘ a spirit of mutual support. She enthusiastically paid forward her early experiences, supporting countless new climbers, bringing homemade cakes, and giving lifts to many.
Last summer, weeks before her final climbs with us, she said, “It’s wonderful what you’ve created here Tim. Thank you for welcoming me into the Clan.”
Mark, baby James and I visited Barbara shortly before she died. Though unable to speak, she showed warm appreciation for our connection and support.
Whatever happens after death, part of us lives on in friends’ memories, stories, and actions. Barbara was a climber, a friend, and will always be part of our Clan.
Ok. Barbara. Safe. Off belay.
Originally posted on this post on Instagram
