The British Association of Mountain Guides, BMG, held an open day at Ghyll Head in the Lake District aimed at promoting the association. Twenty five delegates, all experienced mountaineers in their own right, were invited to learn about what the BMG could offer to young mountaineers in way of a career in mountain guiding worldwide. The

The BMG was formed in 1975 and is a full member of the International Federation of Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA) representing twenty two countries in all. The IFMGA sets the standards for training of guides worldwide and the IFMGA badge worn by guides has become the assurance of the highest professional and technical standards.

The President of the BMG welcomed the delegates and informed them of the nature of Mountain Guiding work along with the opportunities. Twenty mountain Guides assisted in a day of discussion and practical climbing on the nearby rock faces in beautiful sunny warm conditions. All delegated left the day with a clear understanding about the work of professional mountain guides and individuals were advised as to what they need to do in preparation for joining the BMG training scheme.

The activities covered by guides range from rock climbing, ski and alpine mountaineering to film safety work. This is why many people employ British Mountain Guides in the snowy, rocky and high mountainous areas of the world to fulfil their ambitions, learn a new skill or work on films like Touching the Void. This work poses inherent risks which are intrinsic but it sets the scene for the challenge and together with the beauty of the mountains makes it a special place to be.

The open day was designed to show interested young mountaineers what the Association could offer them as a profession and show that the BMG was a viable and real option for a bright career opportunity for young mountaineers in what is a buoyant industry at present.

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