An 85-year-old Angus artist has beaten arthritis and the sands of time to ”bag” his first Munro.
Letham artist Charlie Hampton mentioned to his son a couple of weeks ago that he had a few things on a list he wanted to do, while he was still able including walking up a mountain more than 3,000 feet (914 metres) high.
His son was sceptical and tried to dissuade Mr Hampton by saying this was one thing he should forget about, as he was possibly ”past it” at 85.
Undeterred, Mr Hampton enlisted the help of friends who were keen hill-walkers and arrangements were soon in place for him to attempt his first Munro, Carn Aosda at 917m, as it is easily accessible and there is no long walk to reach it.
As the climbing party stood in the car park at Glenshee looking up at Carn Aosda, Mr Hampton began to think perhaps his son had been right.
After some encouragement from his company of ‘sherpas’, the party set off to tackle the Munro.
Ignoring the discomfort in his ankles to record a respectable time of one hour and 40 minutes, Mr Hampton took in the view with a celebratory glass of champagne, and reflected on his achievement.
After about 30 minutes on the summit, it was time for the descent the part he had not looked forward to, due to the strain on his ankles.
Thankfully, and unknown to him, an all-terrain buggy had been arranged with Stewart Davidson of the Glenshee Ski Centre.
A quick phone call was all it took to call in assistance and a relieved Mr Hampton just had to endure a steep, 75m descent to the buggy.
He was soon joined by his companions at the bottom and everyone retired to the cafe for lunch.
Mr Hampton said: ”I would like to say thanks to everyone who made bagging my first Munro possible, especially the kind people at the Glenshee Ski Centre who got me safely and comfortably down the mountain.”
His friend Neil McLeod said: ”This was a great achievement by Charlie and he is now looking forward to ticking off the next thing on his list. This just goes to show what is achievable with a will, enthusiasm and a little help from your friends.”