My interest in Marilyns began... rather late in life, at the age of 64. I had hill-walked on and off from my early twenties, having been introduced to Tryfan on a school trip a few years earlier. I'd visited the Alps and trekked in the Himalayas. When I retired I began to walk more regularly although it was mainly low level. I did some long distance walks and then I did an 11-week continuous walk over the English Nuttalls (excluding Pillar Rock). According to John Nuttall this was the first time this had been done. In October 2006 I discovered the online list of Marilyns.
My favourite Marilyns are... not really something I have. When I visit Scotland I usually find it advisable to have higher and lower alternative targets and Marilyns are perfect for this. One of the most pleasing aspects of Marilyn bagging is the amazing variety of hill terrain encountered.
My least favourite Marilyns are... those that involve thrashing through industrial conifers, or those hills with a potential for GOML encounters.
Do I keep Marilyn bagging a secret? I don't keep it secret. I regard all the lists as an extra incentive to get out and enjoy the outdoors.
I... worked as a chartered accountant. I support the same football team as Alan Dawson (for our sins). I enjoy landscape photography and classical music, particularly piano music and am a keen though very limited pianist.
Eric Hardman on Beinn Maol Chaluim (photo: Alan Castle)
