I have to admit to a near-obsession with the Burbage Valley, especially Burbage North. I first pulled onto Burbage North’s ramparts nearly forty years ago as a fresh-faced, snotty youth. I distinctly recall getting mauled on that occasion by Wednesday Climb. Not much has changed really over the intervening years except that there’s a lot more miles on the clock nowadays. I’m still getting mauled – albeit by slightly harder stuff!

The Terrace, one of Burbage North’s great blocs is turning into something more than a ‘work in progress’ for me. Three weeks ago The Terrace was nearly mine; little did I know then that dropping the last move – several times in the session - that the snow would force a period of indoor confinement. However, last weekend the snow had almost gone and I was back. Sadly though not only had the snow gone but so too had my ‘polish’. Funny isn’t it how just three weeks away and a stint of endurance training can totally change a situation? Still another day and another dollar...

Anyways, last Saturday I wasn’t alone in my efforts to nail said bloc; one amongst our number had even done it before. For something so small and innocuous – essentially it’s only three moves – The Terrace kicks a bit of ass! What a bloc it is though, doubtless that why everyone goes back and back and back and back – seemingly even when they’ve already ticked it!

‘Dutch’ Coefield shooting for move two of The Terrace (Font 7c/+), Burbage North...