The first recorded ascent was in 1771 and in 1883 a footpath and observatory were built all thanks to Clement Linley Wragge. According to the records from the observatory between 1883 - 1904, fog was present almost 80% of the time at the summit between Nov & Jan, 55% of the time between May & June. The ave winter temp was -5c and the mean monthly temp for the year was -0.5c. In an ave year it the summit sees 261 gales and receives 4,350mm's of rain ( 171 in ) - the rainfall in winter is almost twice as high than that of spring and summer.
Clement Linley Wragge climbed The Ben daily to make observations leading to the opening of the observatory in 1883, this remained manned until it's closer in 1904.It is still the most comprehensive set of data on mountain weather in Britain.
So the weather will probably not be perfect on our ascent to the summit, but I know we will take out climb in great humour and with solid determination to reach the summit no matter what. I will post more facts and information regarding "The Ben" and War on Cancer's sponsored challenge 2013 over the coming months.
I hope to see many of you coming along to take up the challenge in War on Cancer's name, and getting yourselves the superb satisfaction of knowing you've conquered Britian's highest mountain along the way.
Based on the first annual challenge that was undertaken this year, a superb weekend it will be!
Until next time
Tracy
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