Thanks to some electronic wizardry from Sam and Ben we have managed to cobble together enough power to send this final update. Today dawned bright and clear, providing excellent views of Makalu. Light winds early in the day suggested that it would be a good day for the summit - but that is life. We have packed, weighed and prepared all of the equipment ready for commencing the walk-out tomorrow. Having made our decision to finish climbing and now cleared the mountain we are all eager to get moving, although our Sirdar has warned us that the weather is likely to be wet lower down the valley. Furthermore, our agent in Kathmandu has warned of one or 2 Nationwide Bandhs (strikes) planned during our walk-out phase. How these will affect us is as yet unknown.
The 70 porters that are required are beginning to arrive at Base Camp in preparation for the walk-out and their is a definite buzz around the camp. They are already examining all of the loads and preparing them for an early start tomorrow. Unlike the approach walk, during which we needed to monitor our acclimatisation, we will complete 2 days trek in one go tomorrow. However, the porters will be paid for the 2 legs - they are not done out of their dues easily.
As explained in an earlier report, we will be unable to provide updates during the walk-out but will provide a comprehensive update together with photographs on reaching Kathmandu.

On behalf of all members of the expedition I would like to thank all our supporters, sponsors and those who have followed the website and the expedition. Your recent kind messages have been gratefully received by the team and have helped to ease our disappointment at having to pull off the mountain. We are all looking forward to getting home now and being reunited with friends and family.

We should arrive in Kathmandu on 6 June.

Colin Scott
Expedition Leader