Wonderful memories of climbing with really great mates over the years Number 10.

Wonderful memories of climbing with really great mates over the years Number 10.

That first trip to Pex Hill was the first of many during my time working at Brigham's. I soon got to know some of the locals. There were three young regulars, it was obvious that they all had great potential. Their names were John O'Connor, Tony Mitchell and Joe Healey (Gaz's younger brother).

One day Joe and I travelled down to Wales, with milkman Derek Hatch and mild mannered Willy Simm. That day we did alternate leads on "Ten Degrees North" and "The Windmill". That was Joe's first time leading, he was only fifteen (I felt old at nineteen).

Next year both Joe and Tony waltzed up Stroll On behind me. They were getting really good.

Joe Healey leading the hand traverse on "Ten Degrees North" on Dinas Mot in 1978. He was only 15.

Mike leading "Stroll On" on the Grochan in 1979. Photo by Elaine Owen.

Joe Healey seconding "Stroll On" with ease, 1979. Photo by Elaine Owen.

Joe Healey seconding "the Jihad" at Pen Trwyn in 1984. Photo by Elaine Owen.

Joe Healey leading "Main Overhang" at Malham in 1985. Photo by Elaine Owen.

Tony Mitchell, "Herbie" 1987. Al Murray on "L'Obsession" in the background. Photo by Elaine Owen.