Each year thousands of people climb Ben Nevis in Scotland, and because of its northerly location, the climate can be bitterly cold. Climber Keith Hewitt describes his first time on Ben
Nevis.
It was February, my first big winter climb. Our route was up the north face of the mountain to Tower Ridge. It's six hundred metres up - probably the longest climb in Britain. We planned to camp for three days in the 'Corries', which are like big bowls cut into the walls of the mountain half-way up.
We were carrying tents, sleeping bags, and metal spikes for our boots - you'd have trouble on Ben Nevis without them because you get snow so hard it's like walking on ice. Even though some of the group were very experienced, we packed all kinds of safety equipment, including lights for attracting attention, hard hats and extra clothing. Although the weather forecast was perfect, with no strong winds, there was still a general feeling of nervousness when we set out. Ben Nevis in winter is always a challenge.
Gareth Ellis, 13, is the youngest son of Alan, an engineer, and Kath, a nursery teacher. His older brothers work in banking and computers, but Gareth’s dream was always to become a clown. Three years ago, Alan, Kath and Gareth joined the circus. ‘People laugh when we tell them,’ says Kath. ‘But it’s true. Gareth has wanted to be a clown since we took him to the circus when he was three.’
When Alan lost his job, he and Kath decided to see if they could find full-time circus jobs. They both got jobs with a famous circus and Gareth began training to become a clown. He calls himself Bippo. They travel with the circus during rhe summer and return home for the winter. Gareth’s brothers are old enough to look after the house while they are away.
‘I can’t say it was easy,’ says Kath. ‘There was a lot to think about and organise. We only had a car and a very small caravan to sleep in, and we were leaving behind our lovely house. The only thing Gareth missed was his long, hot baths.’
‘People ask about my education,’ says Gareth, ‘but from the beginning, wherever we go, someone has always come to teach me. I follow the same books as everyone back at school and I’ve got a computer. I’ve never fallen behind my classmates.’
And the future? ‘It was a difficult decision,’ says Kath, ‘but there was no other way to teach Gareth about being a clown. I’m happy to say it’s working, and we’re enjoying it.’ And Gareth? ‘I’m going to be the main clown in a circus one day’, he says, ‘perhaps Bippu’s circus.’
21 What is the writer trying to do in the text?
A describe how one family changed their lives
B give details about how to join the circus
C talk about the best way to educate a child
D advise what to do when you lose your job
22 What would a reader learn about Gareth from the text?
A He does not enjoy school work.
B He has a definite aim in life.
C He would like to be at home with his brothers.
D He wants to be the same as other boys.
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