HRFC in Scotland 2004

The location chosen for this year’s visit to the Highlands was new to the club and new to the majority of the members attending. For this we must thank Richard Best whose ploy of getting the tourist board to send the details of the Glen Affric Chalets to me put the whole thing in motion.

As is usual with this event in the Club's calendar, the trip was soon fully booked with 23 names signed up. Hut allocation and transport arrangements were rapidly sorted, and included another first for a Scotland trip. This consisted of what came to be known as the "Flying Squad" who took to the sky as a way of beating the interminable drive up the length of Britain.

The weather again proved somewhat mixed this year, starting with snow down to the level of the huts but as the week progressed, rain became the most prominent meteorological component. This caused anxious glances at the river level behind the chalets. and the crossing of streams to take on heroic proportions especially for some who managed to fall in.

The scenery proved to be wild and spectacular with the Glens which converge on Strathglass being regarded as some of the most picturesque in Scotland, even though the Lochs in many have been greatly enlarged by dams. These were constructed following the second world war as a means of producing Hydro Electric power from one of Scotland’s great natural resources: rain. An interesting fact gleaned from a book purchased in the local shop was that at the height of the building programme, Cannich was home to over two thousand workers. I don't think there are quite that many in the village today.

Although the weather was not perfect, parties took to the hills every day and Monroes and Corbetts were ascended with great enthusiasm. At low level, attractions included Plodder Falls, in full spate, the metropolis of Inverness, (which failed to impress at least one member), and monster hunting in Loch Ness.

Social activities followed the usual pattern of hut hopping and visits to the local pub, which was described by someone as looking like a hair dressing salon from the outside. It also proved to be the meeting place for the committee of the local Shinty team, who seemed to spend most of the evening comparing the merits of various balls. On the last two nights, the Hotel in Tomich, a small hamlet further up the Strath opened and attracted many with its log fire and excellent food.

Party night, with much music and singing was very enjoyable although the "Teeth" Game was new to many and inspired feelings of startled disbelief in some.

P.S. my luggage has still not turned up.

Thanks to everyone for making it a great week and to Richard for the venue.

Dick