In his short but intense life - he was killed in the First World War at 24 years of age - Seigfried Herford became recognised as the finest rock-climber of his generation and made first ascents that were years ahead of the prevailing standards. The most famous of these was Central Butress on Scafell.

His personality was complex and enigmatic and Keith Treacher's penetrating study sheds light on the influences that contributed to his drive as a climber and to his love of the mountains.