About John proctor
John, a Yorkshireman, has been working as a mountain climbing instructor for over 30 years. Currently “smashing it around the Lake District” (as he puts it), he trains British Army Paratroopers and Gurkhas in navigation and mountain climbing skills.
A runner, alpinist, rock climber, and author, John has traveled the world to run and climb, exceeding his own expectations through self-belief and daring to try what seems beyond reach. From solo running the winter-covered Cuillin Ridge of Skye to a 46km, 3200m ascent speed ascent of Cerro Huemul in Patagonia, his adventures are remarkable.
One of his most memorable ascents was climbing the Cassin route on the Piz Badile’s North Face in the Alps. It was his wife Anna’s 40th birthday, and they climbed with close friends celebrating their honeymoon.
Now in his 50s, John’s life of committed training and adventure inspires him to train and mentor mountain athletes who share his passion for the wild.
john’s articles
videos and Articles by becky
Artwork for John’s book ‘Mapping the Mind’ by Becky James
A yellow flash followed the click of the car doors locking; we turned to the trail, the cone of our headlamps shining bright. Heading northeast into the dark….