Jake Thackey on the first ascent of Middle Ages (V,4) on Beinn Narnain. Together with Andy Bain, Thackrey has made some good additions this season to Beinn Narnain, a peak that has been largely overlooked by winter climbers in the past. (Photo Andy Bain)
When Jake Thackrey and Andy Bain climbed on Beinn Narnain in the Arrochar Alps earlier this season, they noticed a crag below the Spearhead that had a good-looking winter line running up its centre. They called the crag The Shield and returned on March 27 to add Middle Ages (V,4). The route gave two good pitches followed by an easier one, and the crag is clearly visible on the walk up Beinn Narnain from the top of Cruach nam Miseag.
