OUR talk on October 28, entitled The Assault on Aconcagua, was given by mountaineer Alan Peace.

This mountain is situated in Argentina and is 23,000ft in height, although in relation to sea level it is higher than Mount Everest because its base already sits on high ground. The talk was an account of the ascent of the mountain by a small party, amongst whom was our speaker.

The journey began at base camp which is provided with a rescue helicopter and a 24-hour medical cover to deal with emergencies.

From this level the climbers' backpacks are loaded onto mules, which are encouraged to keep going by the fact they are not fed and watered until they have completed their part of the journey.

From that point the climbers have to take over carrying the 15kg bags.

We heard of the many hazards that can befall the climbers.

At 10,000ft the density of oxygen begins to fall and by 20,000ft it is only half of the amount found at an ordinary level.

This can have many effects on the human body and slows down progress. Strong winds are encountered and these can play havoc with the temporary shelters they construct when resting.

Freezing temperatures together with the wind chill factor can cause frostbite and it was this that ultimately caused the group to halt when only 600ft from the peak.

It was decided that it was too dangerous to go any further, however, another attempt will be made in February next year.