United We Climb

Bouldering is a relatively new take on an old sport which has boomed in popularity over the past few years. Traditional images of climbing focus on athletic body types, but increasing numbers of people are realising that it offers something for everyone. Yasmin is a paraclimber who's discovered its magic. Indirock is a new bouldering wall on a mission. In their own ways they want to increase diversity within the climbing community and encourage a new generation to discover the sport.

You can follow Yasmin's journey  on Instagram @the.climb.to.healthy (beware, you will find yourself inspired to climb a rock face!) and her diversity work through @unitedweclimb and @all_in_beta.  You can follow Emily Vermont and Indirock, Southend's first bouldering wall, on both Instagram and Facebook @indirock_  and their café will be run by @hugos_pantry. And if you'd like to help make their vision a reality, on 5 November Indirock will launch a crowdfunding campaign to raise £25,000 towards their start up costs. Links will be shared through their social media and on their website indirock.co.uk 

Many thanks to Tim Macri and Luis Avila for their beautiful playing of the Stabat Mater of Antonio Vivaldi and to Chris Jones for his 'Southend Song' performed for Southend Radio in 1981 (copyright Essex Sounds).