A man from Mauchline has successfully climbed 282 Munros – for the second time – in memory of his old friend, Jock.

Saturday, September 18 saw the climax to Harry Kirkwood’s climbing ambitions as the man got his walking boots on to tackle one last major peak in tribute to “weel kent and respected Mauchline man”, John (“Big Jock”) Smith, who sadly passed away last year after a long period of illness.

Having originally completed the first round of Munros in 1993 together, Jock’s family approached Harry to ask if he would scatter his ashes in the mountains he loved.

Harry was more than happy to oblige and scattered them at the top of Aonach Mor, looking over to Carn Mor Dearg, and Ben Nevis.

Cumnock Chronicle: Jock in 1991.Jock in 1991.

Harry, who completed the admirable jaunt alongside friend, Wallis Riddell, of Ayr, said: “I met Wallis when I moved down to Ayr.

“He wanted to complete a first round of Munros so I was roped into doing them again and finished it last Saturday for a second time.

“Jock and I used to go away weekends together.

“He was only 61 when he died. He was one of the boys who you used to meet in the pub on a Friday night.

“One time he said, I wouldn’t mind going the walks with you. It was new to him but he came along and stuck at it.

“When his family phoned and said that was them getting the ashes and if I could scatter them in the hills, I’d already thought that it would be an ideal occasion to do it – my final Munro.”

Cumnock Chronicle: Harry & Wallis on Top with Ben Nevis in background.Harry & Wallis on Top with Ben Nevis in background.

To celebrate a poignant and special weekend for the men, Harry and Wallis were joined by family and friends to mark the end of their 282-strong climb. Excellent weather allowed for a summit party to be held followed by a ceilidh party in the Ben Nevis bunkhouse in the evening.

Music was provided by the bagpipes, accordion and guitar of close buddies Jim, Malcolm and David and thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Coincidentally, Jim and Harry started climbing together and both completed their first Munro on Ben Lomond back in 1988.

So after sore legs but an unforgettable few years, will the men be back to complete a third round?

Harry said: “We intend to keep walking together. Probably our 20 mile/6,000 ft climbing days are over, but challenges will be adjusted to suit fitness levels.

Cumnock Chronicle: Summit group at top.Summit group at top.

“I previously started The Corbetts, I done half of them before my other mate decided on the Munros so I ditched them but I might go back and finish them.

“I’ll not stop walking. I love it. I’ll be selective with my walks but I’m not going for third time.”