It is well known that people from black and minority ethnic (BME) communities, are under-represented within mountaineering activities, including hill walking and climbing.

In this article, Fida Hussain reports on the progress of some young people making their first steps into the hills.
 

Fida Hussain's report
Our first weekend was with a group of Asian girls and boys.  The girls were completing their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award and camped at Langdale and did the Langdale Pikes one day and on the second day walked to Whorneyside Waterfall.

Sabia, one of the girls had this to say about the weekend:

The Walk to Stickle Tarn
The walk to Stickle Tarn was a good walk. I really enjoyed it with the group because we worked together and kept each other motivated. I did not like the weather because it started raining which made it hard for us to see. overall I enjoyed it and was happy to do the walk.

The Walk to Whorneyside Waterfall
Whorneyside Waterfall was beautiful. I liked the waterfall and also the walk on the way to see it. It was amazing to see how far we had come to see this waterfall and I was absolutely amazed to see something so nice. The weather on the second was better than the first day.  We all enjoyed ourselves because we were having a laugh with each other. Everyone of us had a smile on our faces even the boys!

Overall I liked Langdale and the Lake District and would not mind going there again with the group :)

A second weekend involved two young lads, one Asian and one of Italian roots, visiting Wasdale. 

Here's Gino's report:

Scafell Pike
Although I had never done anthing quite like this, I was particularly looking forward to the prospect of climbing Scafell Pike. I had heard from some friends of the tricky terrains that scafell Pike had, and so wasn't quite sure what to expect when we set off from our camp at Wasdale.

The scramble up, first and foremost was particularly hard work and lasted a couple of hours. I do participate in a number of vigorous sporting activites and see myself as having a fairly good level of fitness, however this test of endurance was something I wasn't used to.

We would rest every 25-30 minutes to look back on how far we had come (and to catch our breath!) . I sure needed the small breaks as the steep climb up the large rocky terrain and loose scree was particularly challenging. Each stop gave me a small sense of achievement as we drew nearer to the Pike.

It was fantastic to finally get to the 'top of England'. I took great pride in finally reaching the top as we had been ascending the mountain for a good 3 or 4 hours before we had arrived at the peak. Unfortunately, the mist at that time had restricted any views but just to get there, and in good time, (I was told by my leader) made me very happy.

Having never had the chance to come here before I never realised just how beautiful the place actually is. The views on the way up (and down) were absolutely stunning. The whole place is just so peaceful and tranquil and it was just great to admire and take it all in as I made the climb.

My particular highlight was actually reaching the top. I have to say it was one of the biggest achievements I have felt, just because of the sheer hard work it takes to get there. It is not one to be underestimated by anyone and I was just very glad I was apart of an excellent group who helped me every step of the way. The experience was immensely fulfilling, and with great surroundings I have found a new favourite place and I will be hoping I get the oppurtunity to return again in the near future.
  

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