Manchester-based The British Mountaineering Council (BMC) has completed a rebrand that sees it change its name to ‘Climb Britain’.
The move aims to unite all members under one ‘Climb’ banner, inclusive of hills, mountains, rock, ice or indoor walls.
Since its inception in 1944, the Didsbury-based BMC has promoted the interests of climbers and hill walkers throughout England, Wales and beyond.
As part of the re-branding, BMC Cymru/Wales will change to Climb Cymru and have its own individual logo.
The new branding
Dave Turnbull (pictured), who has at the helm of the BMC since 2002, said: “The point of the BMC was always to stand up for the rights of climbers and hill walkers, giving them the support they needed to enjoy these amazing activities.
“And none of that will change as we become Climb Britain.
“Our core work for members will remain unchanged – we will remain fully committed to promoting cliff and mountain conservation, advising on good practice, facilities, training and equipment.
“Now, whether you’re climbing a hill, a snowy mountain, a vertical rock face or an indoor wall – Climb Britain will be there to help.”
London agency b-focussed was responsible for the general rebrand work, with branding specialists Thinkfarm behind the concept and logo.
And the move has been supported by legendary mountaineer and Everest summiteer Sir Chris Bonington.
The 81-year-old, a BMC Patron and former BMC President, said: “The ‘British Mountaineering Council’ name reflects what the BMC was 50 years ago. It feels heavy and, to a degree, old-fashioned and we are responding accordingly.
“The spirit of ‘Climb Britain’ is this – go out, climb whatever you enjoy climbing, and enjoy the outdoors in the UK.”
Climb Britain currently has 82,000 members, made up of 56,000 individuals as well as a further 26,000 people from the 300 affiliated mountaineering clubs.
The rebranding process began 12 months ago and could take a further three to 12 months to roll-out in its entirety. The funding, which involved two consultancy firms, was provided by Sport England.
