With the end of 2023 upon us, we reflect on what we’re building and have overcome - a moment to collectively breath and contemplate the significant journey we're on together. We enter 2024, fully committed to playing our role in creating a better tomorrow, safeguarding the future of hill walking, climbing and mountaineering so people can embrace adventure, both now and for generations to come.
Membership has grown, albeit slowly, at a time when many similar organisations have seen significant drops in numbers. We have increased our number of BMC hill walking events and have successfully campaigned on the right to roam. Although we were unable to buy Sirhowy or Kilnsey crags, the positive engagement with and by the community was fantastic to see and this is an area we will continue to focus on. The BMC has continued to support expeditions and, in 2024, will expand the scope for applicants.
As a ski mountaineer and an ice climber, respectively, Roger and I are particularly pleased with the significant strides in better supporting the competitive elements of both ice climbing and skimo. It is uplifting to see more athletes competing and medaling in these ‘developing sports’, including para climbing, particularly as we are close to achieving Paralympic status. With the build up to the Paris 2024 Olympics building momentum, we saw Toby Roberts secure the first male Olympic quota place for Great Britain whilst competing in Laval. We wish him the best of luck at Paris 2024.
The specialist committees and volunteers continue to deliver, and it was encouraging to see more people volunteering for these roles which do so much for members and the wider community. We encourage you to read our end of year review, and learn more about some of the great things that have been delivered through the BMC during 2023.
The cost-of-living crisis continues to affect the BMC as a business and also, we know, our members. It particularly presents challenges to those who are from lower income backgrounds, and who often are also from our more diverse communities. We are fully committed to breaking down barriers for anyone who is interested in our activities so they can enjoy the passion and benefits we all share in the outdoors.
Within the BMC, 2023 has been a challenging year. We started the year with an ambitious plan to grow the organisation by increasing membership and diversifying income sources. However, throughout the year, we have been hit by both significant staff changes, financial challenges and external pressures. Whilst we know that people want things to improve quickly, the Board needs to ensure that the corrections we make will be valid for the long term; and are legally and financially robust; this takes time.
The staff and volunteers have put an extraordinary amount of effort into understanding the causes of these challenges, some of which date back a number of years. While some changes have already been made, 2024 will see considerably more change as we implement what we have learnt in the latter part of 2023 in order to put in place a robust and sustainable BMC which will grow and improve our delivery across all of our activities.
Being a senior volunteer in the BMC is a privilege, and we have the opportunity to meet so many amazing people who share our passion for both the BMC and activities we love. We remain sincerely grateful for your support throughout the year and this support will be crucial as we move forward.
In a world where there is much division, and uncertainty it is good to remember that we all share one thing, we are all passionate hill walkers, climbers, mountaineers and outdoors enthusiasts. Together we are stronger and more unified. May your climbing and walking adventures during this break bring joy and fulfilment, surrounded by the warmth of friends and family. Wishing you a peaceful holiday season and sending very warm wishes for a new year filled with health, happiness, and exciting outdoor pursuits.
Andy Syme, President
Roger Murray, Chair of the Board
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