FEARSOME MOUNTAIN MEN

The cold, ice and snow bring thrills and spills into the lives of Martin and his intrepid side-kick, Frank - two brothers who love to dice with death. Martin is the cool dude with glasses on, tied to the rock to keep himself from falling off. Frank is his older brother, in the picture below looking like Sean Connery in survival gear. These photos were taken on the flanks of Pic de la Grave, in the Ecrins region of the Alps, in July 1998. To learn more about climbing in Scotland and the Alps, use the links below. To read the tale of their trip and their attempt to 'top out' on the Pic, click here, and you can also enjoy their latest adventure - an expedition in September 2000 to conquer some Via Ferrata in the Dolomites.

The usual way of getting into winter mountaineering - being a competent summer climber, graduating to a few mixed routes, and then into ice pitches - was far too sensible for them. They started summer walking as a way of getting to know each other (Frank is 16 years older than Martin) and then took the first of their winter survival courses 'just in case'. Of course, the bug bit, and three courses and seen years later, they found themselves on an ice wall in the alps.

Any one can do it - even you. All it takes is a positive attitude, a little training and experience, reliable equipment, and stong control over the bowel muscles.

British Mountaineering Council - who cares if they are the governing body, they do good insurance. Oh, and trust them (and me) on the sunscreen.

Plas Y Brenin - we strongly recommend the 2-day Alpine Preparation course.

Superb mountain photograpy from our mate Jon Sparks.