Once back in Chamonix, we all went straight into climbing mode, and, under the guidance of Mid Lever and OCdt Till, started pushing our grades on some of the spectacular sports routes dotted all over the valley. The enthusiasm of the group was summed up with OCdt Lancaster’s persistence, despite having an ingrown toenail, which prevented him from wearing both his rock shoes, he continued to climb with one rock boot and one mountain boot. Other examples involving one very busy crag, whereby a thunderstorm was threatening, everyone else went home, but Mid Lever and OCdt Lowe were convinced on finishing a route they were attempting, despite some small splashes of rain they completed the route to find that the storm had missed the crag, they were left with a clear sky and an empty crag (Very rare in Chamonix Valley).

Once everyone had been climbed out, we set off on our travels again, this time aiming for Saas Grund to meet our Alpine instructor, Capt Phil Carrotte REME. We set up camp and readied ourselves for the following days activities which involved getting to Hohsaas hut, and then crevasse rescue skills on the Trift Glacier, at the foot of the Weissmies. The next day we had an early start and attempted to summit the Weissmies, 4023m. This took up just over 3 hours and was the groups first 4000m Alpine peak. We celebrated this with a pint from Phil back at the hut.

The next Mountain we had in our sights was the even higher Alphubel, 4206m. This involved another very early start of around 4am. Though being mainly a slog, it was still an enjoyable peak to get, with stunning views of the Matterhorn in the distance once we arrived at the top. The final mountain we climbed was the Allalinhorn, 4027m. This was definitely the most enjoyable peak for the whole group and a fitting finish to an excellent expedition. We were fortunate enough to have good weather throughout the Alpine stage so that we were able to climb three 4000m peaks. Once we were back down in the valley, we set off straight away back to the UK, visiting a vineyard en route to pick up some gifts for friends and family.