Climbers scale frozen waterfall in 'rare' conditions

Two climbers have spoken of their excitement after scaling a frozen waterfall during "rare" conditions in the Yorkshire Dales.

Mick Ellerton and Richard Goodey, who are both experienced climbing instructors, took on the climb at Gordale Scar, near Malham Cove, before work on Tuesday.

"I've done it probably three times in the last six years, so it very rarely comes into [the right] condition," Ellerton said.

Goodey described the climb as "exhilarating", adding that they managed to climb up and abseil down the waterfall several times.

"It was a nice beautiful chandelier, beautiful formations of ice and it was glistening all white," he said.

"It can be scary but you want to keep a clear head, you need to know what you're doing."

Parts of North Yorkshire have seen snow and ice this week, with Storm Goretti expected to bring snowfall and strong winds to the UK on Thursday.

The climbers work at outdoor activity provider Lost Earth Adventures, with Ellerton also volunteering for Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Association.

"There are different sections where you don't want to go," Ellerton, who regularly climbs in the area, said.

"That comes from experience of knowing what you're looking for.

"It gives me that joy of being out on the mountains, we call it 'type one fun'.

"It also helps to keep my skills fresh for mountain rescue and the work I do."

Goodey likened climbing to meditation because of the concentration required in the moment.

"Every placement of the ice axe needs to be checked, double checked, look where you put your foot, make sure that foot's attached, don't move until you know that that foot's secure," he explained.

"You've always got three points of contact that are absolutely secure, all you're thinking about at this time is solving the problem that's directly in front of you."

He added: "There's no time for thinking about what you're having for dinner that night or whatever else is going on in your life - you're completely transfixed in the moment."

The final feeling was one of "euphoria", he said.

Ellerton said he returned to climb the waterfall again on Wednesday morning.

While the climbing instructor said he would never discourage anyone from exploring the countryside, he added that it was important to do it safely and with the correct equipment.

"It's great for your physical and mental health, and it's an awesome place to be," he said.

"As long as people are getting out there safely, I'm all for it."

Additional reporting by PA Media

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