Tributes have poured in for a "climbing legend" who tragically died in a accident in the Peak District.
John Allen from Sheffield, who was known as the "gritstone legend", died after an accident on May 18 whilst he was climbing at Stoney Middleton in the Peak District with friends and family.
The experienced climber took a "long fall" and despite the best efforts of mountain rescue teams, paramedics and loved ones at the scene, he could not be saved due to the severity of his injuries.
Scores of tributes have been paid to Mr Allen, who was hugely influential, and paved the way with his gritstone routes.
Climber Magazine said that his contribution to climbing during the early to mid 70s was incredible and that he "set the world ablaze" with his gritstone routes.
In a piece published on May 22, the magazine said: "John died in a climbing fall at Stoney Middleton in the White Peak whilst climbing with family and friends.
"John’s death, coming as climbers across England readjust to climbing outside again following the first stage of easing of the coronavirus restrictions, feels especially poignant.
"John leaves a legacy of amazing routes many of which date to the early/mid-Seventies when he was the undisputed God of Grit or as some have said, ‘The Boss.’"
According to the magazine, his stand out routes from the early 70s included classics as Profit of Doom, Hairless Heart, London Wall and Old Friends on the Peak gritstone, plus a free ascent of Great Wall at Cloggy in Wales.
All of these remain sought after testpieces today.
Mr Allen emigrated to New Zealand with his family for a considerable time in the 70s before returning to Sheffield.
Throughout his time climbing he was also nicknamed "the boss" for his sheer skill and talent.
Dozens of tributes have been paid to Mr Allen online.
James Thacker said: "Deeply saddened to hear this news.
"As a young climber starting out on the grit John Allen’s routes represented the pinnacle of what was achieved in the 70/80s.
"Many still don’t receive onsight ascents today. A true #sheffield legend. RIP."
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Steve Pearson also said: "RIP John, your brilliance on rock was an inspiration to all the Derbyshire lads of my age."
Another person said: "John Allen was one of the greatest ever gritstone climbers. RIP."
