Winter Mountain Safety Lecture – Simon Wells

“Bandages, Biscuits & Bothy Bags: What Really Saves You in Winter Mountaineering”

Sponsored by Rab

Co-sponsored by Petzl

Presented by Simon Wells

Fort William based Simon Wells WML,WMCI presents the second lecture in the 2027 series of Clachaig’s Winter Mountain Safety Lectures.

About the lecture:

When the weather turns wild, the smallest item in your rucksack can make the biggest difference. In this talk we’ll explore the safety kit and first aid essentials I carry into the Scottish winter mountains, why I choose them, and how my pack changes depending on the conditions, the objective, and the team I’m with. From blister plasters to bothy bags, and from biscuits to bandages, we’ll look at how to balance weight, safety, and peace of mind on the hill.

Clachaig’s lectures are informal by design, and will hopefully be as entertaining as they are educational. For 2027 lectures will be presented in the Boots Bar. There is no charge for entry. Start will be 8pm approx. If part of a larger group, please give us some advance notice so that we can do our best to prepare accordingly. To help us to continue to improve and develop the series, we’d be very grateful for your feedback after the lecture.

The series is sponsored by Rab and Petzl. Please give them your support and encouragement so that the lecture series can continue to be provided free at the point of delivery.

About Simon:

Simon Wells is the founder of Wild Mountain Guides & Highland First Aid Ltd. He is a qualified Mountaineering Instructor and Winter Mountain Leader with years of experience guiding and teaching in the Scottish mountains. Alongside his work on the hill, he is a specialist first aid trainer, focusing on the needs of instructors and those working in remote and challenging environments.

About the Lecture Series:

Now in the 42nd year, the Clachaig Winter Mountain Safety Lecture series is the longest running safety initiative of its kind. Designed to be a last port of call before setting off into the winter hills, each lecture will look at key safety considerations which may well be a timely reminder when planning your outing for the next day. Read more about the lecture series…

We are particularly keen to ensure that the lecture series remains FREE ENTRY as it has done since its inception. However, there are costs and we are extremely grateful for the backing and financial support of Rab. Their belief in the value of the lectures has ensured that the series can continue to be delivered for the 2027 season.

Whilst the lectures are free, we will be asking you to part with a pound, or three, as we raise funds for our chosen local charity throughout the course of ClachaigFest.

There are some great prizes from Rab and a range of other local and connected businesses. Read more about The Big Winter Raffle. 

Raffle tickets will be on sale on the night, and throughout February at Clachaig.

Also supported by and with huge thanks to Nevisport Fort William.

From www.glencoescotland.com.