Millican Dalton (1867 – 1947)

He lived in a cave, on the lower slopes of Castle Crag in Borrowdale. For nearly fifty years, he spent his extended summers camping, rock climbing, fell walking and sailing his raft on Derwentwater. Although he lived alone he was very sociable, he welcomed visitors and liked nothing better than a good debate. He was born into a Quaker family and remained a lifelong pacifist. He was a vegetarian and baked his own bread. He liked strong coffee, but was rarely seen without a Woodbine cigarette in his mouth. The self styled ‘Professor of Adventure’ offered his services as a mountain guide, and to all things outdoors. More than anything he was at one with nature and loved the simple beauty of his surroundings.

My image reflects the location, the dark cave, and the effects of weathering on the slate, both in the cave and spectaculary in the quarry in Dalt Wood nearby. The pinks, blacks and whites are a surprise and beautiful. I couldn’t resist adding the Woodbine smoke!