High Peak For Dalkeith & Monktonhall
Members of the Dalkeith & Montonhall Brass Band climbed 4406ft to the summit of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest peak, on Saturday 2nd September in order to raise money not just for the band, but also for the St. Columba's Hospice in Edinburgh.
The day was organised by band manager and trombonist Jim Henderson along with his daughter Karen, who plays flugel in the band. Jim and Karen's British Energy work colleagues from Torness Nuclear Power Station accompanied the band on the climb and special thanks must be made to them, along with British Energy for providing the finance for transport and also the hostel accommodation in Fort William.
The band members set off at 10am at a steady pace, but after a couple of hours, one of the bass players broke down with cramp and had to make his way back down the frequently steep and gruelling terrain, spending the rest of the day with band secretary, Heather Henderson, who provided support from the base camp. The rest of the team ploughed on and after climbing for five hours, managed to reach the summit at around 3pm. As all the players were carrying their instruments, it was only appropriate that they gave a performance at the top. A small audience had gathered at the summit (Ben Nevis was also hosting a 'fun' run on Saturday) and the band gave an oxygen-starved, but note perfect rendition of the march 'Erimus'.
The descent back down to sea level didn't seem to pose any problems until a few little injuries severely affected progress. An hour or so into the descent saw conductor Jim Chamberlain receiving treatment on his left knee as the climb up had clearly taken it's toll. From this point onwards, Jim had to be assisted and supported most of the way down. Legs were getting very weary indeed and the daylight was rapidly disappearing. The final hour of the journey was made using torchlight, and after a slow and painful descent of over six hours, the team made it back to the bottom just before 10pm. The band members vowed never to moan about the local gala day march ever again!
All the players involved had a thoroughly enjoyable day with the good weather helping to keep spirits high when legs were giving in. Reaching the top of Britain's highest peak is certainly a triumphant affair, and quite possibly a first time achievement for a brass band meaning that it could even be 'Guinness Book of Records' material. Band manager Jim Henderson said; "This was a fantastic day. The band did really well. They worked together as a team and supported each other every step of the way. This is a tough climb, even for themost experienced climbers, and the combination of the band being inexperienced climbers, along with the weight they were carrying showed amazing determination. They have really done themselves proud and have shown just what you can do if you put your mind to it"
