New President for Scottish Mountaineering body

Members of the Mountaineering Council of Scotland (MCofS) elected Brian Linington as President at their AGM on Saturday 3 September. Brian was originally elected to the volunteer Board of the MCofS in 2008 and has chaired Board meetings since 2009, with further responsibility for Strategy. He replaces Chris Townsend who had reached the term of his period of office.

Brian, an active mountaineer who lives in Plockton on the west coast of Scotland, expressed his appreciation of members’ confidence in him following the vote, and stated:”Mountaineering covers a range of activities from indoor climbing and hill walking, to outdoor climbing and expeditions in remote places. My aims for the period of my Presidency include improved engagement with our members as we strive to better-represent and support their interests.”

“I also want to see the MCofS continue to provide the best possible advice and information concerning safety and skills, with the aims of improving self- reliance and minimising mountaineering incidents.”

“A key challenge for me and for the MCofS – and for the many that simply enjoy the landscape of Scotland for its recreational value, or who gain a sense of well-being from the mountains – is the enormous threat to the mountain landscape from developers. I will be leading a review into our conservation policies to ensure we articulate our concerns and maximise our impact with the limited resources available.”

“Since being elected to the Board in 2008, I feel that I have been fortunate to work with colleagues, other volunteers and staff, and be part of a team who have worked hard to turn the MCofS into the best organisation possible. In saying that, there is still much to be done so that we can continue to work for our members cost-effectively, and in an open and democratic way.”