Distilled won the top prize of best film at the Edinburgh Mountain Film Festival in George Square last night. The latest movie from Paul Diffley of Hot Aches charts the life of Andy Cave, from the Yorkshire pits to the ground-breaking climb of Changabang in the Himalaya. The narration was set against the backdrop of Andy’s Scottish winter climbing exploits.
A special commendation was also given to Keeper of the Mountains, telling the story of 90 year old Miss Elizabeth Hawley. Miss Hawley has never been hiking, let alone climbed a mountain. But – keeping detailed records of the expeditions from Kathmandhu, she is one of the most significant contributors to the history of Himalayan mountaineering.
People’s Choice award went to The Journey. Paul Pritchard was a leading rock-climber until a large rock fell on his head, leaving him severely disabled. As he seeks out new adventures, Paul reflects on his life.
Best Short Film was the shorter edit of Wide Boyz, showing Pete Whittaker and Tom Randall as they headed to the USA to take on the world of off-width crack climbing.