A volunteer mountain rescuer has scaled a frozen waterfall in the Yorkshire Dales National Park under conditions so rare they occur only about three times every six years. Mick Ellerton, 48, climbed the icy cascade at Gordale Scar near Malham Cove on Wednesday as severe wintry weather gripped the UK ahead of Storm Goretti.
The Australian-born rescuer, who lives in Skipton, North Yorkshire, said: "I've done it probably three times in the last six years. So it very rarely comes into (the right) condition." The waterfall had frozen solid enough to climb after temperatures dropped sharply across the country.
Ellerton works as an instructor at Lost Earth Adventures, running rock climbing and caving sessions. He volunteers for a cave rescue charity and uses mountain climbing to keep his skills sharp for the Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Association. A colleague joined him for a climb on Tuesday before he scaled the waterfall again on Wednesday.
Safety and motivation
The experienced climber emphasized the importance of knowledge and preparation when tackling frozen climbs. "There are different sections where you don't want to go," Ellerton said. "That comes from experience of knowing what you're looking for."
He described the activity as essential for both his rescue work and personal wellbeing: "It gives me that joy of being out, we call it that 'type one fun', when we're out on the mountains. But it also helps to keep my skills fresh for mountain rescue and the work I do."
Encouraging others
Ellerton called the Yorkshire Dales "stunning" and "absolutely beautiful," noting the area is quieter than tourist hotspots like the Peak District. While he regularly climbs Gordale Scar in summer, he encourages others to explore the countryside safely: "It's about being hill smart. It's great for your physical and mental health, and it's an awesome place to be. As long as people are getting out there safely, I'm all for it,"
The climb came as severe wintry weather brought ice warnings across much of the UK, with snow causing school closures and travel disruption. Forecasters expected Storm Goretti to bring severe snow to England and Wales on Thursday.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).