QUODCUMQUE FACIENDUM : NIMIS FACIEMUS
The editor would like to take this opportunity to wish all
club members; all readers of the B.B. and all cavers everywhere a very Merry
Christmas and a Happy New Year,
Unless somebody comes up with a scheme for distributing the
B. B. a damn sight more cheaply than the Post Office currently charges, the
days of the large Christmas B.B. are probably a thing of the past. Apart from a shortage of contributions, the
size of this one has been chosen to be the maximum which will go for the lower
rate when the limit is reduced next year from 60 to 50 grams.
Next month, the thirtieth volume of the B.B. begins. The 29 volumes so far produced since the B.B.
started in 1947 have been edited by a total of 7 club members, of which the
other six have produced 12 volumes between them. There are no prizes for guessing how many
have been produced by your present editor.
It seems a good time to remind members that when I came back
to the job in 1970, having retired in 1967, it was on a temporary basis until
some new editor could be found.
That, of course, was five years ago now and nobody appears
to be clamouring to do the job. I am
finding it increasingly difficult to carry on, at any rate to carry on
single-handed because I get less free time than I once had and feel that I am
not on Mendip enough to chase up contributions the way I should.
What I would like to suggest is that a volunteer be found
who would be prepared - to start with - to give me a hand. The details can be sorted out when a suitable
volunteer is found. From this point on,
there are three possibilities. The
Assistant Editor can remain as such, in which case I would be prepared to carry
on. The Assistant Editor can gradually
take over, in which case I would be happy to retire at whatever stage suited
us. The third possibility is that the Assistant Editor would get fed up, in
which case we would have to find another. By this means, somebody could come forward without committing himself
(or herself) too deeply to start with. If they found the job to their liking, they could take it over
completely. If they did not, they could
leave and some other bloke be found. I
would like the club to take this seriously, because I realise that I cannot do
the job alone for much longer, so I hope the club will hear my plea for help!
Traditionally, the Christmas B.B. contains some element of
would be humour. Owing to the fact
already mentioned that I am finding it hard to get people to make contributions
of articles etc. for the B. B., a great deal of space is taken up in this B.B.
by my own annual screed for which I apologise to one and all.
Yes, once more you are stuck with Pete Pushem and his band
of mythical B.E.C. members - and once again, can only hope that the future as
painted by this tale will never actually come to pass!
Alfie
The Editor would like to apologise to one and all, and
especially to our Membership Secretary - Angie Dooley for the errors in the
list of members published in the last B. B. It appears that he did not have an up-to-date list and suitable
corrections will appear in the next B.B.
The Hut Warden would like to appeal for MATRESSES, LARGE
DINNER PLATES and DINING CHAIRS. If
anyone has any of these or other useful items, please bring them out or contact
Chris Batstone, who will arrange transport,
A Monthly Miscellany, by Wig
203. Additions to the Library: Two large
piles of new material are to be installed in the club library. B.C.R.A. Transactions and Bulletins, and
other club exchanges make good reading. The Limestone and Caves of Mendip has been purchased by the club. This year it is hoped to rebuild the
collection of cave surveys and these will be available for reference only
because of the large capital sum involved and the difficulty of replacement.
204. Who did it? I'm led to understand that it wasn't Tony
Johnson who donated the collection of C.D.G. newspaper cuttings to the club
library. Perhaps the kind donor would
let 'wig' know who he was?
205. Christmas at the Belfry: At the
time of writing publication dates are not my problem! - it appears that a boozy
time was had by all. No doubt Mike W.
will be giving a suitable account.
206. Politics again: The N.C.A.
recognises that there is a feeling throughout the country that cavers are not
exactly happy with N.C.A. Some, in fact,
would like to see it go quietly into a corner and die. Others see it as being purely an organisation
for the cave politicians to play expensive games with, and producing a great
mountain of paperwork. As a result, the
N.C.A. have formed a special committee consisting of Phil Davies (W.C.C.) Nigel
Dibben (D.C.C. and B.E.C.) Alan Ashwell (S.W.C.C.) and Jack Rasdell. This team is roving around the regions to
listen to the caving population - to listen to YOUR views. The meeting for the Southern Region is being
held at the Hunters on the weekend of February 14/15. If you as individuals have any thoughts about
N.C.A. and how it should work then go ahead and speak your mind. I realise that most cavers are cheesed off
with politics or have never been interested in the first place. However, there is no doubt that the need for
a national body does exist. Pressures
from the Department of Education and Science; the Nature Conservancy; the National
Parks add to pressures from bodies like Local Education Authorities, the Sports
Council and the C.C.P.R. The public are
waking up to the fact that caves exist and are another source of leisure
activity. The horror of the situation is
that very few of the people who are clamouring to use caves will ever become
second trip cavers - the first trip will satisfy their curiosity. Should cavers adopt an elitist attitude and
try to close caves to outsiders by taking over control of all available
caves? Do we try to reduce the numbers
of new participants by negotiation with the various organisations
concerned? To do either, we need a
national organisation that can represent cavers views. Most cavers agree up to this point, but areas
of disagreement start when we consider how the N.C.A. should operate. Should it be the hub that directs all caving
activity - or should it be something which merely keeps itself in a state of
readiness to take on external problems when they arrive? One last point. Grants will only be made to a governing body
of any sort - in our case to N.C.A. Such
grant aid is available, for example, to help establish permanent entrances to
caves.
Editor's
Note: And that, unless 'Wig' changes
his mind, is the end of 'Round and About' - the longest running feature which
has appeared in the B.B. Many readers
have told me how useful they have found the information which 'Wig' has so
consistently brought to our attention. If find that we cannot 'lean on' Dave Irwin to carry on, then the sort
of information collecting that he has been doing is something that we need a
volunteer to take on. Failing that, we
must hope that 'Mik' might be able to expand his activities and peregrinate
amongst active cavers!
A very big and public 'thank you', Wig, for over two hundred
items of news!
Hilston,
20th January 1976.
The Editor, Belfry Bulletin.
Dear Sir,
Having read item 194 in 'Round and About' I am, to say the
least, incensed.
'Wig' has every right to his personal opinions, for many of
which I have the greatest respect. However, this article seemed written purely to inflame the 'Them against
Us' feeling that is destroying the credibility of the C.S.C.C. (which, of
course, includes us.)
The setting up of an Equipment Committee represents perhaps
the first action of the N.C.A. that is not purely political. It is, too, likely to be of real use to
cavers since the committee will give honest and unbiased reports on equipment;
will liaise with manufacturers to produce new equipment etc.
The reaction from a few Mendip cavers has been 'anti' the
Equipment Committee - it is so very easy to criticise and not so easy actually
to do the work - but I can confidently say from many discussion in the Hunters
etc. that most cavers in the region genuinely want the committee to exist. I myself feel that it is in the interest of
any active caver to at least give the committee a chance to prove its value.
Yours, etc.,
Mike Cowlinshaw.
*****************************************
A reply from 'Wig' follows.
Although this reply will be somewhat belated, as Mike and I
will have discussed the current situation and hopefully cleared the air, an
immediate reply to Mikes letter before this happens might still be
useful. I feel that the comments I made
were far from being critical except for a certain amount of journalistic
licence in my title! I was writing as a
member of B.E.C. and not as the Hon. Sec. of the C.S.C.C. It is, of course, difficult to wear two caps
at once. I merely reported that C.S.C.C.
had voted to refer the Equipment special Committee's report back to them for a
more detailed account of what they intended to do in 1976. The report lacked specific details of their
intended actions, and C.S.C.C. felt that it was not prepared to contribute
towards the sum of £200 of their anticipated administrative costs that has to
be financed by the regional and other constituent bodies of N.C.A. (these costs
are not grant aided) without more specific details that were worth this high cost. I'm sure that any club committee that spent
£70 on the report issued by this committee (£70 was its cost) would have been
thrown out by its club members in no time at all!
However, having said that, I hope that I balanced matters by
asking for any professionally qualified person who was interested in helping
with the work of this committee to come forward. Finally, Mike's comment that local cavers
want this committee to exist frankly surprises me, but if this is true, he'd
better get them to attend a C.S.C.C. meeting and ensure that their views are
heard.
Your editor (thinly disguised as the chairman the C.S.C.C.)
would also like to make a comment on this letter.
The aspect of Mike's letter which I find a trifle disturbing
is that the C.S.C.C. is generally 'anti' just about everything - and that this
intransigent attitude is destroying its credibility elsewhere.
At the risk of sticking my neck right out, I feel that the
C.S.C.C. have adopted an attitude of hard commonsense over the last few
years. The fact that this attitude has
brought it into conflict with some of the other constituent bodies of N.C.A. is
unfortunate but possibly inevitable. The
C.S.C.C. are not against things just for the hell of it, but because in many
cases, they feel that they have thought the thing through and can see snags
which might have been overlooked in the general enthusiasm for getting
something done.
In the case of the report in question, it is vague. I am sure that Mike, in his professional
capacity at work, would not think much of a report which gave no details as to
exactly what work was proposed, together with a cost and time estimate for each
section of the proposed task.
Without such detail, we are in no position to know exactly
what is planned. For example, it has
been estimated by two people independently (one of whom is associated with the
special committee) that to write a realistic specification for the 'Cave
Qualification' of ropes for use as lifelines, taking ropes which are already
manufactured to a general specification, might cost from £30,000 to £50,000 if
carried out in professional labs to a standard approaching that of a B.S.
Bearing in mind the authority that such findings may be
credited with (even if the Special Committee did not intend their results to be
used in this way) some people think that nothing less than an equivalent B.S.
standard would be of any real use. Imagine a bloke saying Our lifeline was a rope which the N.C.A. said
would stand 50 hours of underground use providing it was visually checked
between trips. We did this, and it had
only been used for a tota1 of 16 hours when the fatality occurred. Members of the Equipment Special Committee
could be in for a pretty rough ride after such an inquest. Like Wig, we are not saying "Stop
it", so much as saying "Please tell us more about what you intend to
do, so that we can judge if we think it is sensible, or practical, or even
possible."
Another thrilling episode in the Wilton-Jones saga
by Graham Wilton-Jones
It is still more comforting to spend two trips, laddering
on one and de-laddering on the other. (David Heap)
I can think of nothing less comfortable than doing two trips
into Penyghent Pot, even if spaced by a week or so of work. Perhaps carrying
all the tackle in and out on the same trip could be worse, but our Fred had
arranged better than that. He had
organised three groups; one to start early on Saturday morning and ladder the
pot to the bottom; a back-up party to help tackle hauling through the canal as
necessary; and us - Fred, Bernard, Brian, Throstle, Bucket and Graham - do
de-rig. We were to go down about mid
day.
Originally I had decided to spend the weekend on Mendip, but
a phone call from Bucket on Friday morning changed my mind. So having dashed down from
The days caving did not start well. We were not at all welcome at a certain
caving headquarters near Horton, where we had previously stayed on a number of
occasions. However, such pettiness was
soon left behind as we climbed. Jangling
with hardware, up the slopes of Penyghent. Across the fields we saw the back-up party heading towards the 'Crown' -
sensible fellows. Up at the entrance to
the pot, a small orange tent was the only sign that anyone was 'at home'.
By 1.30 we were all making our ungainly way through the
canals and crawls of the entrance passage. The stooping, hands and knees progress and flat-out crawling in icy cold
water sometimes half-filling the passage is not excessively arduous, but it can
be slow, awkward and painful as it proved when we returned, tired and worn,
with piles of tackle.
When we finally reached the first pitch we were all
surprised to find two ladders belayed there. However, we soon discovered the reason, for up the passage came a party
from a
The second stretch of passage is designed for people who are
five feet high and involves almost continuous stooping all the way down to the
next pitch. Fred turned back because of
old injuries which this aggravated. This
section was soon over and, below the next pitch, we found ourselves lying flat
in a bedding plane looking out over a big pitch with no sign of a ladder. Had we read the appropriate literature more
carefully, we would have been quicker to find the alternative descent to the
left. The first 18m (59 feet) section of
this is free-climbable, but the ladder for the next 20m (66 feet) or so, hangs
mostly free near one wall of this wind and spray swept pot.
The rift passage that follows contains a number of short,
vertical sections, roughly half of which are free climbable. Mostly we were in the stream, but
occasionally it was easier or drier to traverse above for a while and climb
down at a more convenient point. Suddenly the passage drops out of this joint-controlled rift, down a
short cascade and into a bedding plane. A little bit of wading brought us into the Boulder Chamber - a brief
enlargement of the passage with an aven and some large loose fill.
Here we caught up with the tackling party, led by Mick. They had had some difficulty in finding the
route in the Rift Passage, where it is possible to traverse at the wrong level
(as in Dowber Gill) and so had lost time. While they now set off on the last section, we sat around to let them
get ahead and consulted the survey. After some time and some food, we continued down between boulders and
the edge of the chamber, back into the stream. Below the next pitch, in the half-flooded bedding plane, we came upon
the slightly warmer water emerging from the inlet from Hunt Pot. I had a look along the passage, but the
thought of crawling in all that water did not appeal. Bucket had to go up and look as well, and shouted
back that he could stand up, and that the passage went on like that. Disbelievingly, we crawled along and came,
indeed, upon a brief rise in roof level, only to see B.C.T. crawling along the
next bit of bedding plane, muttering excuses about not saying that the standing
up section went on for ever. We told him
to come back and not be so silly, which he did. We continued downstream.
These final sections of passage are not joint-controlled but do follow the jointing fairly closely. This results in the floor being cut up with deep grooves, just right for twisting ankles or braking legs. We therefore went more slowly and with caution.
We rapidly descended the next two pitches and caught up with
the advance party once again, who were having some difficulty in laddering the
final pitch
Soon we were down at the sump, where we lingered a while -
for the advance team had only just begun its exit. Although foam was visible high up in the roof
in places, we were not particularly concerned, since the forecast was excellent
and conditions had been dry for some time. We had not gone far on the route out when we caught up with the other
team again - and this occurred on several of the pitches. The journey back to the surface was fairly
straightforward. We had abseiled down
most of the drops and I was to self-lifeline out first. However, this only proved necessary on the
big, open 20m (66ft.). On this I had
great difficulty moving my Jumar up the rope, and hung on the rope several
times to get more tension in it. (Brian
held it at the bottom). I was therefore
just a trifle upset when I reached the top to find this line, with a bight part
way along it, casually draped over a rounded flake of rock and a bloke's hand
on the top to stop it jumping or slipping off. After a few pleasant words about belaying, I lifelined the next man up
and we started hauling tackle. Except
for one silly display of incompetence, when the tackle fell from a great height
- scattering those below - all went well. I must stress that this incident was the fault of the collectors and
tiers, not the haulers. We only hauled the
tackle up the 18m (59ft) and the 20m (66ft). On all the other pitches it was possible to carry it or hand it up. Perhaps this was a mistake on the first
pitch, for the take-off is rather awkward and carrying tackle up this was, at
least for me, a great effort. From the
bottom of this pitch to the end of the canal was hard and the only thing that
made me hurry was the thought of a jar at the Crown.
So at last we reached the entrance, after eight hours. Willing hands appeared - I don't know whether
they were from the laddering or the back-up team - and helped us out with the equipment. Thanks, anyway, and thank you, Fred, for such
excellent organisation. You missed a
good trip, but I shan't go again. Once
is enough for anyone!
The title of this article did say 'Weekend', so I suppose
some mention of the following day should be made, Fred's house is not too far
from a disused railway viaduct which has 70 foot (21m) arches. After bones and muscles had recovered a
little and I.B.S. had diminished, we went out for a couple of hours A & P -
or S.R.T. - or whatever you like to call it.
I think that when I give up caving, I shall take up railway
arching!
-------- I --------
It is a fine spring afternoon. In the board room of British Caves Limited,
the bright sunshine falls on bone china teacups and polished mahogany. We are moving in very distinguished circles,
for a board meeting is in progress. The
Chairman and Managing Director, Sir Percival Makepenny is speaking.
.and this, I regret
to say, leaves only one last possibility. Gentlemen, I am in no doubt that our prototype Mark III cave is being
sabotaged.
The Marketing and Sales Director is head to mutter something
about 'those rats from Plasticave'. Sir Percival turns towards the source of
this interruption and continues,
"Commercial sabotage by our competitors can be ruled
out. We have got to look elsewhere. The situation is so serious that I took the
unprecedented step of meeting the Chief Executive of Plastcaves, Ted Tacky. It seems that their research is proceeding on
very different lines to our own, and we are, in effect, aiming at different
markets. We can hardly be said to be
competitors at this stage, and they would have no motive for any form of
sabotage.
Perhaps, Sir Percival, smoothly suggests the Company
Secretary, You would give us a little more detail?"
Sir Percival absentmindedly picks up his teacup, mutters
Cheers and drinks it down, spluttering on the unexpected tealeaves. It would appear, he says at last, that
Plasticaves are aiming at what one might call the coastal market. Their new model is designed to float and can
be moored on any convenient body of water. Of course, they are emphasising cheapness of installation. I might add, says Sir Percival in his best
lecturing manner, That British Caves have always aimed at providing a
traditional cave, soundly constructed of British steel and concrete. Speaking frankly, gentlemen, I regard
Plasticaves' venture as little more than a flashy gimmick. Supposing one of their new models breaks away
from its moorings and drifts out to sea with a full complement of school cavers
aboard? Apart from the outcry that would
occur if it sank with all cavers, can you imagine being seasick in tight
bedding plane? No, gentlemen, I fancy we
can forget all aspects of Plasticaves."
There is a discreet murmur of approval, until the members of
the board recollect that they are there to solve a problem rather than to slate
their competitors. Sir Percival clears
his throat and returns to the main theme.
"The Mark III is of crucial importance to this company,
and we must have it operational. As you
know, gentlemen, the Sports Council, for ease of administration, insisted at
the time our first caves were put into service to cater for the growing demand
for caves, that all cave should be identical in design. That was why the so-call natural caves were
all sealed up as soon as enough of ours and, I regret, Plasticaves, models had
been opened. At first, we had enough
work just catering for the demand and the Mark I was installed over most of the
country. Then we developed the Mark II,
which is designed to be erected above ground and which has proved such a great
success in East Anglia and other low-lying areas where the deep excavations
required for the Mark I were not really practicable. The Mark III contains a number of new
features which, if they are successfully demonstrated, will convince the Sports
Council of the need to install them in all our existing caves to bring them up
to a new uniform standard. I need hardly
add that the increased sales will result in a corresponding increase in
Directors' salaries. We must get the
Mark III operational.
There is an awkward silence, broken Technical Director. I have on my staff, he suggests, a keen young engineer who we might well
entrust with on-the-spot investigation. He is both intelligent and discreet.
Nobody else having any ideas, there is a general murmur of
assent.
-------- II --------
Sid Spanner, for it is he who has been selected for this
delicate task, climbs wearily down the ladder to Checkpoint 13. Once again, he looks through the view
port. He sees a narrow bedding plane
through which successions of schoolboys are crawling. He broods on his problem as he idly watches
their slow progress. All the mechanical
systems work perfectly. The adjustable
squeezes adjust. The hydraulics are spot
on. The DRY-NORMAL-FLOOD control
leaves nothing to be desired. The
automatic sump drainer, which can empty the sump in five seconds should a caver
stop moving through, works every time. The only thing wrong is the new infra-red lighting, which enables the
supervisors to watch cavers even when they appear to be in complete darkness,
and even that fault is confined to a particular section of the cave. Sid is baffled. His gaze returns to the view port. A particularly fat schoolboy is halfway
through the squeeze. With a sudden
vicious twist of the appropriate levers, Sid closes the squeeze down two
notches and sets the water control to FLOOD. He is losing his temper.
-------- III --------
It is later that same day. Sid's temper has now been restored by two cups of canteen tea which he
has imbibed in the Supervisor's Canteen - situated between Checkpoints 7 and
8. Whilst in the canteen, he has become
convinced that the decision to convert one of the earliest Mark I caves to this
new Mark III standard has been a mistake. In Sid's opinion, the firm should have built a brand new cave. Besides, he muses, this cave is on Mendip -
one of the old notorious natural caving areas - now, happily, a thing of the
past. He distrusts the entire setup.
He decides to return to the problem area, that part of the
cave quite near the bottom and viewed from Check points 16 and 17. Arriving at Checkpoint 16, he looks into the
bottom of the Main Chamber. A small
group of scruffy looking older individuals is passing through. They must, Sid reflects, be some of the few
club cavers left. He returns to the
ladder and descends once more.
At Checkpoint 17, all is now in darkness. Sid waits for the arrival of the party he has
just seen. In a few moments, he starts
to see their lights as they climb downwards over the concrete boulders. They appear to stop somewhere between
checkpoint 16 and 17. One by one, their
lights go out. Sid, now thoroughly alert, climbs rapidly back to Checkpoint
16. It is now in darkness too. He waits for the party to return.
To Sid's amazement, this takes nearly two hours. It is only ten minutes caving from checkpoint
16 to the end of the cave. Just before
they arrive, the infra-red goes on once more. Sid Spanner feels that he is on the track of the saboteurs at last. Promotion, he feels certain, is in the bag.
-------- IV --------
It is a week later. Sid has laid his plans well. He has identified the cavers. They are from one of the few caving clubs
still in existence. It is called the
B.E.C. Once more they have arrived at
the cave and Sid has run down all the supervisor's ladders to Checkpoint 16 and
opened an emergency door into the cave. He is dressed in old fashioned caving clothes like the B.E.C.
party. He squats behind a large boulder
and waits.
Soon, the party approach the spot. They have the sort of voices one would
associate with their general appearance. They stop quite near the place where Sid is crouching.
"Any ruddy Weegees about,
Fred?"
"All clear, Pete."
"Right lads, drift over and
do, your stuff, Ron!"
The man called Ran comes almost to where Sid is hiding. Pulling some sort of instrument from his
pocket he applies it to a spot on the cave wall. Whatever he is doing takes a little
time. Presently he removes the
instrument and takes from his pocket a little tube through which he squints in
all directions. "O.K.", he calls,
"All I/R's are off!"
From his place of concealment, Sid reflects that he has just
witnessed an illegal act. These B.E.C.
cavers, he grimly notes, shall pay dearly for this. But more is to come. Before his astonished gaze, one of them tugs
at a section of cave wall which slowly swings outwards. One by one, the party disappear through the
resulting hole. The last man pulls the
wall section back into place after him.
Sid waits for a few moments before getting up and going over
to the wall to investigate. To his
surprise, it is a concealed emergency door, of the type fitted to all
-------- V --------
Sid's first reaction to his new surroundings is one of
professional chagrin. This new section
hardly looks like a product of British Caves Limited. He doubts whether it even conforms to the
British Standard. Sid examines the wall
closely. It is not like the rough
imitation stone of a cave section or like the smooth concrete of a supervisors
section. It does not even look as if it
has been manufactured at all. With a
sudden start, Sid realises that it has not been. He is in a natural cave. With a totally unaccustomed feeling of not
knowing what to expect, he moves cautiously onwards. He is now in a chamber of sorts, with rocks
strewn most untidily and unprofessionally all over the floor. Suddenly, he hears faint sounds of the party
returning and conceals himself once more behind a large boulder. As they
approach, he realises that they are talking and he catches a fragment of their
conversation as they pass by his hiding place on their way out.
It's no ruddy use, Fred. We might be able to keep up this ruddy caper
a bit longer, but sooner or later one of their ruddy engineers is bound to
catch up with us.
There must be something we can
do, Pete. Weve always managed to be one
up on the system se far.
Were getting blinded by ruddy
science this time. When we got Sam to
apply fore a job as a supervisor, he slipped up by talking about sump 2. Clean forgot British ruddy standard caves
have only one sump
The words become blurred as the party continues on its way
out. Sid waits until he hears the door
shut before switching on his light. His
course is now clear. He will beat them
to the entrance by using the supervisors ladders and get the Cave Manager to
detain them as they surface. The company
will, no doubt, bring charges against them. After a few formalities, he will be free to leave and get back to the
company headquarters - to receive congratulations and, no doubt, promotion.
Meanwhile, the cave remains utterly silent, save for the
quiet drip of water from somewhere nearby. Quite suddenly, Sid is seized by a desire to know what lies beyond the
chamber he is in. He cannot understand
what is happening to him. He is in the
grip of something which, although suppressed by years of training, has
nevertheless been lying dormant within him. It is the natural urge to explore. His promotional prospects suddenly forgotten, Sid starts off
purposefully in the opposite direction.
-------- VI --------
It is a few hours later. Sid has free-climbed two pitches; pushed his way through several
squeezes and wad through a deep canal. He turns the next corner and finds himself in a beautifully decorated
passage. The variety, quality and sheer
quality of the formations take his breath away. Compared to the few miserable-looking bits of formation contained in a
-------- VII --------
Once again, we are back in the board room of British Caves
Limited. As one might expect, Sir
Percival is in the middle of a lengthy speech.
"
.the excellent report by Mr. Spanner which I am sure
you have all read thoroughly. It was, of
course, a great disappointment to find that the new infra-red lights suffer
from technical disadvantages which I have no doubt you have grasped from the
paper."
There is a pause while Sir Percival drinks his tea and hands
the empty cup to his secretary muttering some thing about another round. The members of the board are all trying to
look as if they understand the subject of infra-red illumination - with varying
degrees of success.
" However," continues Sir Percival, "it is a
matter of great comfort to know that any form of sabotage has been ruled out
completely although, without the new lights it is difficult to see enough
advantages in the Mark III to be able to put a convincing case to the
Ministry."
The members of the board all assume expressions of
intelligent interest and concern. This
latter comes easily to them, as the promised increase in directors salaries
will not, presumably occur. Sir
Percival, however, has something up his sleeve.
"I must confess, gentlemen, that until a few hours ago,
the situation hardly looked promising. However, just before this meeting, I was handed a second report by Mr.
Spanner. It outlines an entirely new
scheme. Briefly, the entire supervisory
system is to be controlled from a central monitoring room by a single
operative. He will be able to view any
part of the cave by television cameras and to control all the hydraulic and
mechanical systems by suitable electronic controls. The saving in manpower is very significant. Even the registration clerk is to be replaced
by a computerised system which will record all visits to the cave and persons
below at any time, I will not bore you with the details, but I might add that
the suggestion has my full approval. The
only difficulty appears to be that we do not at present have an Electronics
Department. I suggest that we form one
without delay. We will, of course, need
a suitable man to lead this new department. I would welcome any names you might put forward." Guided by these broad hints, the board
unanimously appoint Sid to this new job.
-------- VIII --------
It is now several months later. It is, in fact, Christmas Eve. In a cosy Mendip Pub, the members of the
B.E.C. sit morosely drinking. For months
now, the only natural cave still open has been denied them by gangs of men
installing new electronic equipment in the artificial cave above it. It is certain in their minds that the door
they persuaded one of the original workmen to fit when the cave was being
constructed has now been discovered. So
low are their spirits that Fred Ferrett has just bought a round without
protesting that he bought the last one. A caveless future stretches grimly before then as they gaze unhappily
into their pots.
Out side the pub, a car crunches to a halt in the crisp
snow. It is a brand new Range
Rover. It belongs to Sid Spanner who has
just returned from the successful trials of the Mark III and has seen the contract
signed for the modification of over two hundred caves to the new standard. It is widely rumoured that he will be offered
a seat on the board of British Caves Limited.
As Sid gets out of the car, he looks thoughtful almost
worried. A trifle nervous. It is one thing, he muses as he walks towards
the front door, to force ones way to the top of a large company. It is quite another to attempt to join the
B.E.C. However, he is not without hope,
for there are aspects of the new improvements which - so far - are known only
to himself. There is the small box he is
carrying in his left hand coat pocket for instance. When this box is switched on down the cave,
it becomes impossible to activate the T.V. cameras in its vicinity. Thus, a party can move about the entire cave
unobserved. There is the other small box
in his right hand coat pocket, which operates the gear on the door leading to
the natural cave below. There is also
the fact that a new cave has been ordered for Mendip and that some privately
commissioned work has established the existence of a large and hitherto
unexplored cave below the site which
Even so, Sid thinks as he enters the pub, the B.E.C.
doubtless have their pride. They may
well consider that he is trying to buy his way in. Perhaps if he bought them enough beer?
-------- IX --------
It is much later that same night. The hour is just past midnight. Technically speaking, it is now Christmas
Day. At the Belfry, nothing stirs. The moonlight, filtering through the icy
windows, falls on the motionless figure of Pete Pushem as he lies stretched out
on the floor, his pint pot still in his lifeless hand. Nearby lies an ungainly heap consisting of
Ron, Fred, Sam and Sid. Slowly, this
heap stirs and the figure of Fred Ferrett detaches itself. He staggers outside.
The quiet of the night is suddenly broken by a
characteristic sound. It is Fred
honking. He staggers back, closes the
door, trips over Sid's feet and falls once more on to the top of the heap.
"Merry Christmas!" he mutters thickly as he sinks
into a deep stupor.
Club members holidays like club members, are never ordinary
affairs as this contribution from Janet Setterington shows.
It was going to be 'that sort' of holiday. It was obvious from the moment that Sago and
Sett said "There's this computer that we want to have a look at near
Armed with everything from pamphlets by Thom. (and if you
don't know who he is, you're lucky!) to toothbrushes the advance party set out
to make the crossing from
If you like globe artichokes, Roscoff is the place for you
in the springtime. We left the boat and
for over half an hour drove through fields - acres - masses of them, all ready
for picking. It was a sight to gladden
the heart and stomach of a true devotee. Leaving the gleaming, green globes, we continued south across
We drove on south, and suddenly, there it was - the
computer. The great, grey stones of
We found our house in the
The advance party was supposed to recce the area but what
actually happened was that Jan went down with the tummy bug, feeling decidedly
queer in a hypermarket and needed nursing. Still, she recovered enough to cook a couple of memorable noshes; at
least, they would have been if the wine had not set in. Then, the day before Sage was due, disaster
struck. Sett was overcome by the Revenge
of Montezuma and was forced to take to his bed, so it fell to Titch and Jan to
drive back to Roscoff for our friend.
Leaving dad to the mercies of Julian and
The return from Roscoff was not so eventful and we actually
stopped and did some sightseeing at the lovely old slate-covered market at Le
Faouet. On reaching Kerhostin we got
down to the serious business of the trip and had an enormous fish souffle,
washed down with an adequate supply of vin blanc.
Having decided that we loved our stomachs, it was with
difficulty that we set out to see the Grand Menhir, which lies at Locmariaquer
and is the centre of the complex. The
menhir, which is broken in five pieces, 64 feet long and when standing could be
seen for many miles around.
Then we set out on our tour of the alignments. They are spectacular - of that there can be
no doubt. Sett and Sago were like a
couple of small boys let loose in a toy shop. Measuring; calculating; sighting and arguing they kept us enthralled for
several hours. The consensus of opinion
was, in the end, that the whole thing was a lunar observatory as, indeed, the
books said. Numerous expeditions were
made to see the larger, more important outlying stones, but if you want to know
the significance of them you will have to talk to Sett - as maths and astronomy
are not the writer's strong points.
We contemplated the purpose of this vast structure beside a
lake in the golden afternoon sunshine with a delicious picnic laid out in front
of us. Golden hours indeed.
A grand tour round the Golfe du Morbihan was also on the
agenda and it was interesting to see, in some areas, the locals still recovering
salt from brine pans. The little piles
of white crystals look like mountains in miniature when the sun shines on
them. During this tour we went to look
at the ruins of a chateau at Suscinio. The relevant government department is in the throes of restoring this
fantastic old building, and we were impressed with the lengths to which they
were going. It is far from being
'pretty-pretty' as many of the buildings of the Loire, but it is a real, solid,
working castle complete with a moat full of water.
The areas in which we stayed is renowned for its seafood -
oysters in particular. One Sunday we set
out for some lunch. Actually, we were
supposed to be on the lookout for some crepes, but we were all hoping. We found our oysters and made pigs of ourselves;
then we showed what gluttons we were by downing some delectable crayfish - and
that was just the fish. The memory
lingers.
The crowning achievement as far as food went was Sago's
exhibition of how to eat mussels. Julian
and Vanessa opted out and went for omelette. Between four of us there were nine pounds of moules - cooked in a little
white wine and served with a sauce of white wine, tomatoes onions and
herbs. The shellfish filled a large
tureen, two large casseroles and a large meat dish. Each adult was equipped with a washing-up bowl
to take the debris.
The great eat-in began. Jan soon dropped out and moved on to the more mundane salad and
cheese. After a couple of pounds, Sett
called it a day and Titch soon followed - but Sago kept right on eating. Mussel after mussel found its way down his
throat. The procession was endless. In spite of pleas to his better nature; the
state of his digestion and the possible state of the loo at some later hour, he
kept going. It should be pointed out
that the fish were accompanied by large chunks of bread and were washed down
with copious draughts of wine. Few of us
can have been privileged to witness such a feat of Falstavian eating. Eventually, with a regretful look at the
almost empty dish, he stopped. Replete. Then, with beaming face
and jovial tongue, he helped clear the board and wash the dishes. And, do you know, he had not one twinge of
discomfort - the lucky
. What a man!
While in Camac we visited the local museum. It is almost exclusively devoted to
prehistoric exhibits and was founded by a Scot - J. Miln. We also had a look at the
We tried to view the interior of the St. Michel tumulus but
the guide didn't seem terribly anxious to take us round. However, since they had visited it on the
recce, Sett and Jan were able to assure the party that it was quite like other
tumuli dark. So everyone was
satisfied.
Inevitably all good things come to an end and we had to come
home. And that was a pantomime. You will have gathered that we were six in
number, plus vast quantities of luggage. How, do you ask, did we fit everything and everyone into a B.L.M.C.
1300? It wasn't easy, but we
managed. Nobody is going to pretend that
Titch, Jan, Julian and Vanessa were comfortable in the back - being covered
with old coats; cameras; compasses and all sorts of things that the 'boffins'
had thought that they might need. However,
they bore it nobly. The final indignity
came when an extra load of 18 litres of rough French plonk was hurled in on top
of them and they were not allowed so much as a sip.
At Roscoff, we found a right old picnic. The Dockers had just ended a dispute which
had held up many voyagers and the owner of the shipping line had that day to
throw his boat open to the locals. It
was rather a battle to get on board and a fight to get up the companionways
beset by Frenchmen oozing free booze. Still we made it.
On getting home we found that we hadn't had a working
holiday at all. Really, all that we had
accomplished had been an eating extravaganza. So we shall have to go again. That's the nicest thing about
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Across:
1. Tall brows as belay points?
(9)
5. Passage which provided more water to 4 down. (5)
7. One of twelve perhaps, made during a survey? (4)
8. Knot. (5)
9. Edges of pool in this tone. (4)
11. Collective description of other clubs in the Mendip scene. (4)
12. One of two dry alternatives to 13. (5)
13.
.and the other one. (3,3,3)
Down
1. Caves found on Mendip or in
Firth. (5,4)
2. Common to Eastwater, Nine Barrows, Stoke, etc. (4)
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4. Waste Mary underground? (9)
5. Individual entries on a list of gear, perhaps? (5).
6. Both caves and cavers get this on
occasion. (5)
10. Type of cave represented by an exclamation in the South-west. (4)
11. Short Mendip Templar? (4)
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The Belfry,
Chairman S.J. Collins
Minutes Sec G.
Members Chris Batstone, John Dukes, Chris Howell, Tim Large, Mike Wheadon, R. Marshall, Barry Wilton.
Honorary Secretary M.
WHEADON, 91 The Oval, Englishcoombe,
Honorary Treasurer B.
Caving Secretary TIM
LARGE,
Climbing
Secretary R. MARSHALL, 7 Fairacre
Close, Lockleaze,
Hut Warden C.
BATSTONE,
Belfry Engineer J.
DUKES,
Tacklemaster G.
WILTON-JONES, Ilenea,
B.B. Editor S.J.
COLLINS, Lavender Cottage, Bishops Sutton, Nr. Bristol. Tel : CHEW MAGNA 2915
Publications Editor C.
HOWELL,
B.B. Postal BRENDA
Spares T.
LARGE, Address already given
Membership Sec. Mrs. A.
DOOLEY, c/o The Belfry. TO WHOM ALL SUBS
SHOULD BE SENT.
Any contribution to the Belfry Bulletin, including those of officers of the club, are not necessarily the opinions of the editor or the committee of the Bristol Exploration Club, unless explicitly stated as being such.
QUODCUMQUE FACIENDUM : NIMIS FACIEMUS
To some folk - no doubt - the club committee may look like a collection of people who spend their time nattering away and getting nowhere. Nevertheless, they represent each year the nine people who YOU elect as being the best for running the club. Once a year, you get a chance to do something about it - and the start of this process is about to happen once more, with the annual request for nominations for the 1974/5 committee.
You have until Saturday 7th September to nominate new people for the committee. Present committee members are automatically nominated unless they wish to retire - and we shall not know who might wish to retire until the next meeting of the committee on September 6th. In everybodys interest, it is important to have an election - and to make sure that this happens, we need plenty of candidates. This is where you come in. If you feel that somebody you know would make a good committee member - or that you yourself would fill the bill - then make sure that a suitable nomination gets in to Alan Thomas in time. These are difficult times for a club like ours, and it is in times like these that we want the best people. There is nothing worse than having to carry on without an election just because no new candidates have come forward.
The procedure is simple enough. All you have to do is to make sure that the person or people you nominate will agree to stand if elected, then write to Alan saying that you wish to nominate whoever it is and that he or she is willing to stand if elected. SIGN the piece of paper and put your membership number in if you can remember it. You don 't need a seconder and you can nominate as many people as you can persuade to stand!
It is a trifle early to say, but it looks as if the total club membership this year may have DROPPED from last years' level. If this is so, then it will be the first time this has happened to the club. However, we must keep a sense of' proportion about this and there is no need to panic. After all, membership cannot KEEP on rising for ever, and it would not necessarily be a good thing if it did. On the other hand we might start asking ourselves whether we do enough to keep our older members still interested in the club. Perhaps some of the older B. B. readers might care to comment on this?
You will find full details of the dinner arrangements in this B.B. Bearing in mind the complaints over the years of poor food and lack of value for money, a real attempt is being made this year to provide a better meal. Those who went to the successful Grampian Dinner last year will be pleased to hear that we are having the same catering. Drinks are being supplied by Roger Dors who is, or should be, well known to all. Roger, of course, understands cavers so we can rest assured that the drinks will be in capable and experienced hands. In addition, there will be an entertainment in the club tradition - by the same team that produced 'Oliver' a few years ago. Only two things about the dinner deserve further comment. Firstly, the time. The Hon. Sec. has picked 6.30 for 7 p.m. so that there will be plenty of time for a full evening's worth. With the A.G.M. starting at 10.30, there should be plenty of time for collecting wives etc. Secondly, the price. At £2, this is higher than we have been used to, but inflation and V.A.T. make up most of the increase, and in any case, we feel that members would sooner have an eatable meal and reasonable drink prices than save a few pence on a poorer meal. Lastly, we have been asked by the Hon. Sec. to remind members that they are responsible for the behaviour of their guests. The throwing dinner occurs a little later in the year than the B.E.C. dinner, and members are asked not to practice for it at ours!
Alfie
The past year has seen another sizeable expansion to the
club library which includes the addition of several important books. Club exchanges have been increased and
publications of the Grampian (
The club has purchased several items, including Current
Titles in Spelaeology 1973, British Caver Numbers 61 and 62. Caves of the Avon Gorge No 2 and Limestone
and Caves of
Usage of the library has continued, and nearly 100 borrowings during the year have proved the worth of the collection.
Attempts to fill gaps in runs of various publications is proceeding slowly and these items are being bound into volumes by Kay Mansfield. I would like to record our thanks to her for this generous help.
Space is now an acute problem, and timber is being accumulated to increase shelving and build the frame to house the various loose surveys. It is to be hoped that club members remember that when they borrow items they do so for a period of ONE MONTH only. Several overdue borrowings have been excessive, to say the least.
Dave Irwin,
Hon. Librarian.
1st August, 1974.
On the costing side, the year has been one in which inflation has really started to bite. However, thanks to the enterprise of a few club members (and one in particular who wishes to remain anonymous) adequate stocks of paper have been built up, which are sufficient to see us well into next year. By this means, a substantial amount will be saved on purchase of paper for future issues
Not content with this, we have gone over to a much cheaper paper master and again, have stockpiled over two years supply which represents a further large saving. Covers have also come under review. Here, we have placed an order for only enough to see us through this volume, and meanwhile we are experimenting with printing our own. If we can do this, we shall save another very large chunk of money. In all, the 1974 B.B. has cost less than the 1973 B.B. The only aspect of costs that remains to be investigated is the postal side. Perhaps an extension of the hand delivery system might help here.
With the position of stocks so healthy, and with the B.B. actually costing less to produce, while raw materials, printing etc. are rising rapidly, it seems a pity that the only black spot is the shortage of contributions. So bad was this earlier in the year, that only by reprinting from old B.B. 's and republishing from other sources could the size of the B.B. be maintained. Even so, publication dates slipped very badly.
An attempt was made to stimulate ideas by running an appeal, complete with cash prize. This met with no real response from the club. There are, of course, ways of filling up the B.B., but it should not be necessary to use them in a healthy club. After all, our members cave; climb; dig; explore; take part in rescues; hold social functions; read books; attend lectures and meetings; have interesting holidays; do other outdoor pursuits and even pull each others' leg on occasion. How much of this finds its way into the B.B.?
The work of editing; typing and printing takes an average of 20 hours per month - or six full working weeks per year.
The stalwarts who collate, fold, staple, address and post the B.B. put in another large slice of voluntary time. Against all this, the average member, by doing perhaps an hour or two's writing per year, could fill the B.B. to overflowing. It doesn't really seem too much to ask!
Looking at the B.B. over the last two complete years shows that the number of contributors is going down while the amount they write is going up. At this rate, we shall finish up with fewer and fewer people writing until the B.B. is written by two or three people. 1975 marks the 40th birthday of the B.E.C. and it would be appropriate to mark this by each member trying to produce something, however small, for next year's B.B.
Meanwhile, our thanks should go to those authors who have kept the B.B. going this year, and also to the postal department, who work so hard in the background to make sure that you get your B.B.
S.J. Collins.
Editor, B.B.
23.7.74.
We have just received this letter from JOHN KNOPS, which shows that a sense of humour still lurks here and there in the club!
Dear Alfie,
The lack of response to your appeal for articles for the B.B. was only to be expected. Everybody knows that the B.E.C. is, with few exceptions, composed of quiet, unassuming types who are convinced that nobody is interested in reading about their unremarkable exploits. At the same time however, they are extremely interested in the doings of others.
I suggest therefore that what is required is some form by which we can boost each others I ego and self confidence. Then, when others say "B.E.C.: - that egotistical, self-centred lot!" I'm sure the B.B. will be brimful every month - but I wonder if I Id enjoy it half as much!
Yours,
John Knops.
The meeting opened at 10.35 a.m. with 32 members present. The Secretary opened the proceedings by calling for nominations for a chairman. R.A. Setterington ('Sett') was proposed by Roy Bennett and seconded by Alfie. There were no other nominations and 'Sett' was therefore elected Chairman.
Apologies for absence were received from D. Hasell; B. Prewer and R.S. King.
The Chairman then called for the collection of ballot papers and members resolutions. He then asked for volunteers to act as tellers for the ballot. Geoff Standing, Frank Jones and Keith Glossop volunteered.
Alfie asked, on a point of order, whether we should keep a list of those who voted, so that members could check that their votes had been recorded. He pointed out that the new ballot system would allow this to happen without infringing the secrecy of the ballot, provided that the name slips were retained after the voting papers were destroyed. The Chairman put this at once to the vote, and the meeting adopted this procedure without dissent.
The Chairman turned next to the minutes of the 1972 A.G.M. and asked if the meeting wished them to be taken as read. It was proposed by Roy Bennett that they should be read in full. This was seconded by Mike Palmer. The Chairman called for a vote, and the motion was defeated by a large majority no actual count being made.
The Chairman then asked Alfie, as Chairman of the retiring committee, to read out all the actions placed on that committee by the last A.G. M. This was done, and it was agreed that, except for the question of access to the Belfry site, all the actions had been properly discharged. On the latter subject, Dave Irwin spoke. He said that Alan had, in fact, seen an independent solicitor in accordance with the action placed on the committee by the last A.G.M. This solicitor had referred him back to the club's normal solicitors Dave said that he had then contacted 'Digger's' partner, Martin Cavander. Owing to illness, Dave explained, Digger was now entirely ecclesiastical. On the subject of payment Dave said that he had been assured that the existing arrangements whereby we obtained free legal service were still satisfactory to our solicitors, but if we insisted on payment, they would be prepared to quote us favourable terms.
On the subject of rights of way, it appears that the Dors family have the right to erect a gate at the entrance to the track, but must supply keys to the owners of the Belfry (i.e, the trustees.) We have a right of way written into our deeds. On the subject of the Foxwell track, it appeared to depend on the exact wording of the agreement. If we gave an alternative right of way to the road we might well be on uncertain ground. If we only gave it over our land the situation became clear.
Alan Thomas said that the change was stated on the agreement as being 'as per attached plan' which, in fact, shows a join to the track. Dave Irwin replied that, even so, it was not expressly stated that we were giving the alternative right up to the track, but only implied on the plan. In any case, our ignorance of the exact ownership of the wall which separated our land from the track at the point of entry did not invalidate the agreement as far as we were concerned. It was up to Mr. Foxwell's solicitor to have checked this point. It appeared that Mr. Foxwell could request us to change the terms of the agreement, but could not demand that we did so. In any case, Ben had shifted the track some two feet and the argument is to a large extent academic.
The Chairman asked whether the entire subject was not now academic, since there seemed now to be no action threatened. Alan agreed that this appeared to be the case. The Chairman advised that, in the circumstances, the subject was best left alone. Alan replied that the committee had come to the same conclusion and were, in fact, doing just that. He said that it appeared that Ben and Walt had now settled their differences. The Chairman said that the subject was now closed and that any further developments should be dealt with by the incoming committee.
The Hon. Secretary's Report came next, and the Chairman asked Alan if he had anything to add to his report. Alan said that he had nothing, but would, of course, answer any questions which might arise.
Dave Irwin said that there was no mention of the political implications of C.S.C.C. and N.C.A. etc. The Chairman said that, since there was a member's resolution involving this question, it should be brought up at that stage of the meeting. Bob Bagshaw then proposed that the report be adopted. This was seconded by Dave Irwin and carried unanimously.
The Hon. Treasurer's report then followed. There was a correction to the financial statement. The item under 'telephone' should read £44.84. The Chairman then asked for any comments. Alfie proposed that the report be adopted and this was seconded by Chris Harvey and carried unanimously.
The Hon. Auditor's Report followed. Again, there were no comments, and its adoption was proposed by Doug Stuckey and seconded by Nigel. It was carried nem. con.
The Caving Secretary's Report followed. Alan Thomas proposed a vote of thanks to the Caving Secretary. This was seconded by Chris Harvey and carried unanimously. Nigel Taylor then proposed that the report be adopted. This was seconded by Colin Sage and carried without dissent.
In the absence of the Climbing Secretary, his report was read by the Chairman. There was no discussion. Its adoption was proposed by Barry Wilton and seconded by Martin Bishop. It was carried without dissent.
The Hut Warden's Report also provided no discussion. Its adoption was proposed by Fete Franklin and seconded by Bob Bagshaw. It was again carried without dissent,
The Hut Engineer's Report was read by the Chairman, in the absence of that officer. Once again, there was no discussion. Adoption was proposed by Nigel Taylor and seconded by John Bacon and carried without dissent.
The Tacklemaster then read his report to the meeting. The Chairman asked if the club was desperately in need of assistance in making tackle. Mike Palmer replied that there was a need to make tackle, but that volunteers had come forward and it was now a question of organisation. Mike said that the club had all the necessary raw materials and said that Derek Targett and Chris Harvey had volunteered to hold some sessions on tackle making. A vote of thanks to Mike Palmer and to Dave Turner was proposed for the efforts they had both made in getting the club tackle situation sorted out. This was carried unanimously by the meeting. Mike replied to this, and said that the biggest problem had been sorting it out. He said that many people had helped. The Chairman asked if digging ropes were, in fact, old caving ropes. Mike said that they were. The adoption of the report was then proposed by Alan Thomas and seconded by Pete Franklin. It was carried without dissent.
The B.B. Editor's Report came next. There was no discussion. Its adoption was proposed by Martin Bishop seconded by Joan Bennett and carried without dissent.
The meeting then moved on to the Librarian's Report. Dave Irwin said that some books have been out for over a year and appealed once again for members to return books and publications. It was agreed to put an appeal in the B.B. He said that, apart from this aspect, we have not actually lost anything this year. The adoption of the report was then proposed by Tony Meaden and seconded by Nigel Taylor. It was again, carried without dissent.
The publications Report then followed. Dave Irwin asked whether the meeting felt that the report on shoring of swallet cave entrances should be re-published. It would, he said, need bringing up to date before this could be done. The meeting appeared to have no strong feelings on the matter and the chairman suggested that Dave take this into account. Alfie said that he would be prepared if required to revise the manuscript. Alan Thomas then proposed the adoption of the report. This was seconded by Dave Turner and carried nem. con. A vote of thanks to Dave, Irwin was then proposed by Alan Thomas and seconded by Dave Turner and again carried without dissent.
The chairman then announced the result of the ballot.
The votes of 82 members had been recorded. The nine candidates who would for, the 1973/4 committee were, in order of votes cast, Alfie; Dave Irwin; Nigel Taylor; Nigel Jago; Barry Wilton; Alan Thomas; Martin Bishop; Doug Stuckey and Graham Wilton-Jones. The chairman then asked for permission to destroy the ballot papers. Mike Palmer put this in the form of a proposal, which was seconded by Dave Turner and carried unanimously. The papers were immediately consigned to the Belfry stove. The chairman then handed the name slips to Alfie with the advice that voters could appear in the annual list of members with some distinguishing mark against their names.
The chairman then counted those present. There were 45 members present at 11.50 a.m.
The chairman then took the report of the Ian Dear Memorial Committee. Mike Palmer read this to the meeting. There had been one applicant during the year, and this had caused some surprise, as more had been expected. In the ensuing short discussion, it was agreed that publicity had been adequate. The adoption of the report was proposed by Roger Stenner and seconded by Dave Irwin. It was carried without dissent.
The chairman then turned to committee resolutions. The first of these was "that the word 'ratified' be inserted in Article 5 of the club constitution so that it will then read, "both of whom shall be ratified members of the club." Alfie reminded the meeting that Alan Thomas had proposed at the 1972 A.G.M. "That nobody shall be able to propose or second a membership application until his own membership has been ratified." This had been ruled, by the chairman of the 1972 A.G.M., to be a constitutional change, since it added a condition to Article 5. The chairman then proposed from the chair that the subject be referred to the 1972/3 committee in accordance with Article 53. This was agreed by the 1972 A.G.M. with 3 votes against. Since then, the committee have put forward the resolution now in front of the meeting, and also published it in the B.B. in accordance with Article 53. If the meeting now adopts the resolution now before it, it will become an amendment to the constitution. The chairman thanked Alfie for this reminder and put the resolution up for discussion. Roger Stenner declared himself against the proposed change. He pointed out that applicants for membership were not normally admitted unless sufficiently known in the club, and that the proposer and seconder were not consulted as a rule unless they happened to be at a committee meeting, in which case it was unlikely that they were probationary members. Nigel Taylor also expressed himself against the idea and said that it would place an unnecessary brake on new membership. Dave Irwin said that it would provide a safeguard against the formation of cliques. Under the present arrangements, two freshly elected members who also belonged to a small club could propose and second other members of that club who might otherwise be unknown and thus build up a clique which might never integrate with the general membership. Nigel Taylor said that the club committee should act as a watchdog to prevent this or any other bad situation from developing and should not have to depend on detailed legislation to make it occur. He wished it to be placed on record that he was very strongly again this resolution. Dave Turner then proposed the adoption of the resolution. This was seconded by Chris Rowell and carried by 25 votes in favour to 12 against. The chairman then announced that the constitution had been amended for the first time, and that Article 5 should be officially amended in accordance with the resolution.
The second Committee resolution "that the existing Belfry sub-committee continue in office until their findings are completed" was spoken to by Alan Thomas, who said that owing to various circumstances, the sub-committee had not been able to complete its work during the club year just ended. He felt that continuity here was of importance, and the election of a new sub-committee might well reduce this factor. Dave Irwin replied that, on reflection, it might be dangerous to perpetuate a sub-committee in this way. Roy Bennett pointed out that we were allowed two types of committee in addition to the general committee. We had chosen a sub-committee as from a special committee, and must therefore accept the fact that such a committee becomes automatically disbanded at the end of the club year. The chairman pointed out that if there was a continuing need for this sub-committee, there was no reason why the new committee could not resurrect it en bloc. Dave Turner agreed that this was the sensible course for the committee to adopt, since they already had the power to do so. Thus, the resolution had no real meaning. Dave Irwin disagreed with this, and pointed out that the resolution, if passed would compel the committee to do what otherwise they would be free to exercise choice over. Chris Howell suggested that this aspect could be got round if the word 'existing' were removed from the resolution. After some further discussion along these lines, Dave Turner pointed out that the resolution was out of order. It was, in fact, a change to the constitution and, as such, could not take effect immediately. In spite of this, the resolution said that the sub-committee should continue in office. Since a finite time must elapse before the resolution could take effect by change of constitution, it was clearly impossible for the sub-committee to continue in the meantime. Hence the resolution was proposing an impossibility and was thus out of order. The chairman asked if the meeting had under-stood this line of reasoning, and if it agreed with it. The meeting unanimously agreed the point and the matter was accordingly dropped.
Turning now to members resolutions, a resolution, "that the B.E.C. join the Council of Northern Caving Clubs and do more caving in the North" was proposed by Andy Nicholls and seconded by Nigel Taylor. Both Alfie and Dave Irwin said that the Southern Council would be debating this point at their meeting in November and it might be prudent to wait and see what happened there first. At this point, the refreshments arrived, and the chairman declared the meeting adjourned.
After the refreshments, the meeting was re-convened and the
discussion continued. Mike Palmer asked
what the back-ground was behind this resolution. Alan explained that the CNCC had placed an
embargo on members of clubs not belonging to CNCC visiting caves controlled by
CNCC. This meant that BEC members could
not officially visit these caves unless BEC joined CNCC or its members were
prepared to go as guests of a member club of CNCC like the
Roger Stenner then proposed a resolution, "that the defeat of the proposal does not bind the committee NOT to join CNCC should further developments make it desirable to do so". This was seconded by Roy Bennett. The Chairman said that the previous proposal, if carried by the meeting, would have compelled to committee to join CNCC. The fact that it had been defeated meant that the committee were not now so compelled and were now at liberty to do so if they wished. Thus, there was no need for the new proposal. The only new proposal which would alter the status quo would be one which forbade the committee to join CNCC. As no such proposal was forthcoming, the chairman moved on to the next business. This was a resolution by Roy Bennett and Dave Turner "that the 1973/4 committee should take note of the remarks and suggestions concerning payment etc. for access to Northern caves and incorporate these views into its policy as put forward to the Council of southern Caving Clubs." There was no discussion, and the resolution was carried 24 - 0.
Under 'Any Other Business', Dave Turner raised the question of payment for legal advice, which had been mentioned earlier. He asked if we would get better conditions if we paid. Dave Irwin said that it would make no difference. Chris Howell wondered whether payment would get us priority, but Dave said that we had not suffered to date. Alan Thomas said that the independent solicitor had cost a guinea. Nigel Taylor said that he was in favour of leaving things as they were. Joan Bennett suggested that we should be prepared to pay, but that the bills, in the event, might never be sent to us. Bob Bagshaw was in favour of the present state of affairs and the discussion ended without any resolution being put to the meeting.
A special speech of thanks was then delivered to mark the occasion of Bob Bagshaw's retirement from office. Barry Wilton, as the Treasurer-presumptive, reminded the meeting of Bob's long service to the club.
The chairman then asked if there was any other business. Mike Palmer raised the question of fire risk to the Belfry. He asked, for example, whether the gas cylinders should be sited outside. After a short discussion, it was proposed by Frank Jones and seconded by Mike Palmer that the committee take advice from the Fire Service and act at their discretion. This was carried by the meeting without dissent.
There being no other business, the chairman declared the meeting closed at 2.45.p.m.
A Monthly Miscellany, by Wig
91. Hollowfield. The missing sketch plan is shown below: -
106. Social Chit-Chat: Garth Dell, Keith Gladman and
Sons are the addition to the Franklin Brothers Families, and Phil and Yo
Kingston are on their way to
107. Library: The additions to the library have included P.C.G. an A.C.G. Newsletters and a collection of books, C.D.G. miscellaneous papers, maps etc. in a donation from Phil Kingston. Included in this gift is a timetable for the largest caving event ever organised by the club on Mendip - the Cuthberts Sump Digging Weekend in February 1967, when over 30 cavers and divers worked around the clock digging at the sides of the sump to clear a way in for the divers to dig in the sump itself. The project was called off late on the Saturday night due to flooding. Other items include surveys of Lamb Leer, stoke Lane, O.S. Maps and a second edition of the 'Caves of Mendip'.
108. Golden Oldies: Well down in Swildons! On Tuesday
23rd July, an historic gathering descended Swildons under the leadership -
though this is doubtful - of Roy Bennett. Doubtful, because it is thought that all the tackle was carried down by
John Stafford's son who, it appears, was always in the lead. Neither did he worry about the pools -
including the Double Pots - he jumped straight in without - one might add to
109. G.B. This cave is again locked, as is Longwood and Rhino Rift. Keys for all three caves are kept in the library at the Belfry. Members wishing to visit these caves arriving mid-week should make arrangements with Dave Irwin or Nigel Taylor well in advance.
110. At the Belfry: The committee have taken several momentous decisions. The fire is to be re-sited in the main room and when the damper has been manufactured. Bucket Tilbury will come down to install the fireplace and chimney. The long-discussed lockers have been costed and Barry Wilton has the job of arranging the construction. The library is due for a face-lift and extra shelving is to be installed.
By the A.G.M., at least 3 reports will have been published for the current year. Numbers 14, 17 & 18
No 14. Pyrenean Report - has had an endless series of troubles since its MS came into the hands of the editor and though it has been published in the recent past, I would like to record our apologies to Roy Bennett for the late publication. The trouble lay
with the commercial printers, who dragged their heels, and with a member of the club, who failed to deliver the necessary plates and printed surveys. 100 copies are available.
No 17. Burrington Atlas. This booklet has been the most successful publications produced by the club. Approximately 400 copies have been sold, and a second printing is being considered.
Number 18. Caving Reports: The first of a number of multi-subject reports. Contains surveys and papers on various subjects written by members of the club.
No new parts of the Cuthberts Survey have appeared during the year, but the survey is now at a very advanced stage and the publication of the remaining sheets should trickle through during the next club year.
The post is now one of the most important in the club, though not a committee post as such. Its expenditure is almost if not equal to the Belfry accounts. As such, it has shown that sales have reached very high levels and the demand does not seem to be abating. The outlet of papers written by members, of the various discoveries and technical notes, to a wide audience can only improve the image of the club. To this end, Alfie Collins and myself have devised a system where papers of an original nature will be diverted to the caving reports and thus help to remove the stigma whereby others have referred to the journals of other clubs as being the original source, when the B.B. has carried the information first. In the same way, material not really suited to the caving reports will be diverted to the B.B. Papers published in the Caving Reports will be accompanied by a précis especially prepared for the B.B.
D. Irwin.
Editor, Publications.
July, 1974.
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Across:
4. Stoke has a muddy one of
these. (2-3)
5. Swildons has several of these at first. (3)
7. Stal may have done this to a passage and diggers may be this by it! (7)
9. In the first case of 7, the stal does this. (7)
11. And the rest. (3)
12. A boring device for surface exploration. (5)
Down
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3. A hundred affirm for this bloke. (5)
6. A hundred are visiting many places (including this Mendip cave?) (7)
8. Caving get-together? (5)
10. One of the 5 acrosss. (3)
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The Belfry,
Chairman S.J. Collins
Minutes Sec G.
Members M. Bishop, D.J. Irwin, B. Wilton, G.
Oaten,
Honorary Secretary A.R
THOMAS, Allens House,
Honorary Treasurer B.
Caving Secretary A. NICHOLLS, Address to follow.
Climbing Secretary G. OATEN,
Address to follow.
Hut Warden N.
TAYLOR, Whiddons, Chilcote,
Belfry Engineer M. BISHOP, Bishops Cottage, The Batch, Priddy, Wells, Som. Tele : PRIDDY 370
Tacklemaster G.
WILTON-JONES, 17 Monkhams Drive, Watton, Thetford,
B.B. Editor S.J.
COLLINS, Lavender Cottage, Bishops Sutton, Nr. Bristol. Tel : CHEW MAGNA 2915
Honorary Librarian D.J
IRWIN, Townsend Cottage, Townsend, Priddy, Wells Som. Tel : PRIDDY 369
Publications Editor D.J
IRWIN As above
B.B. Postal Brenda.
QUODCUMQUE FACIENDUM : NIMIS FACIEMUS
Inspection of the new list of club officers will reveal that quite a high proportion of jobs are now in new hands. The list starts with our new Hon. Secretary - Dave Irwin who now holds what many people regard as the most important office in the club. Next, we have both a new Hut Warden in Colin Dooley and a new Belfry Engineer in John Dukes. Taken together, these positions affect the club to no small extent. Finally, by a unanimous vote of the new committee, Chris Howell was co-opted as Publications Editor. Although this job is not one of those named in the constitution as being jobs which must be done by members of the committee, it was felt that since the Publications Editor turns over almost as much money as does the Belfry, this was a position which should be in the committee.
I am sure that we all wish our new officers and perhaps the old ones as well - every success in their difficult tasks, and look forward to some really encouraging report at the end of this club year
One of the decisions already taken by the new committee is to concentrate all matters of membership in the hands of a membership secretary. Talent scouts are already out looking for a suitable person, so if any reader feels that he or she could cope with the job of keeping complete tabs on members, please get in touch with the Hon, Sec. or any member of the committee.
It is hoped to include of the dinner elsewhere an account in this B.B. In the meantime, is worth noting that it must surely rank amongst the most successful that the club have ever held. Your editor has attended every one of the twenty five dinners the club has so far held, and has a job to remember a better one than the latest. Plenty of good food; good service; drinks at sensible prices and, going by the comments made to him afterwards, an entertainment which was well received. If we can keep up this new high standard, we might well see many faces coming back who have been recently increasing the number of 'absent friends'
This year sees the 40th anniversary of the founding of the
Wessex Cave Club, to whom we should like to offer our sincere congratulations
on this event and our best wishes for the future. When one considers the number of new clubs
which are currently being formed every year, one wonders how many of these will
survive to the respectable age now attained by the
On a lighter note, the current issue of the Wessex Journal
lists the B.E.C. amongst the natural catastrophes already surmounted by the
Forty years on! since that
terrible blunder
Which older members still dimly recall:
When we look back, we regretfully wonder
Why did we bother to found it at all?
Were we too hasty, too rash or ill-fated
Founding the Wessex; when otherwise we
Might well have sat back and patiently waited
Till we could all join the B.E.C.
Roll up, roll up, roll up, roll up, roll up
For it's never too late to begin
To, fill an application form in
Roll up!
Alfie
Climbers may use the S.W.M.C. hut by arrangement with club. Any climber who wishes to do so should contact climbing Secretary, Gerry Oaten, for details.
There will be a meeting in Mid-December at the Belfry for any members who are interested in going abroad next year. Further details in next month's B.B. The idea is to see who is planning what and whether a definite club expedition will be possible.
Members are reminded not to lend Belfry keys out to strangers. Doing so can lead to loss of club tackle.
Anyone prepared to lead caving trips anywhere should get in touch with Andy or Tim so that a full programme can be arranged.
An account of this cave by Derek Sanderson and Roger Wing
Length: 2100'+ Depth: 509' N.G.R. 733 746 ( Sheet 90 )
After parking the car at God's Bridge Rising in Chapel le Dale, Derek Sanderson and myself packed our rucksacks with caving gear and set off up the footpath by Bold Haw (not shown on the one inch map). The cave was found after about an hour and a quarter's walk over the lower slopes of Ingleborough. It is in a shakehole with a small stream running out of the banks into the cave entrance.
The entrance to the cave slopes steeply, with a pebble and boulder scree floor which slips underfoot. After a short climb down, the development becomes quite high and roomy and leads into sharp meanders in clean, lightly coloured rock. These meanders follow on until the stream falls over a 30' pot (30' ladder, short belay to bolt). The stream, although small (on this occasion) falls straight on to the ladder but the pitch, in a fluted alcove, is a superb one, the water adding to the pleasure. This pitch is quickly followed by another of 40' (40' ladder, 5' belay to small column at eye level on right). The pitch is again wet and consists of a smooth descent of 28' to a wide ledge from which a further 10' drop leads to the floor of the shaft.
From here, the passage is initially roomy, but soon a sharp joint-controlled left turn leads to a crawl on a very smooth, clean rock floor with the stream flowing over black pebbles to one side. After a short section of larger passage, one enters a further section of crawling but this time the atmosphere of the passage is different, the floor being pebbly and uncomfortable, winding through rough, close walls which catch one's clothes as one passes. After about a hundred feet of this, progress is halted at the head of the third pitch.
The third pitch is also a wet 30' (30' ladder, short belay to bolt) and leads to a chamber with a narrow rift to the left. This is the head of the 30' ramp - a superb piece of cave consisting of a smooth slide down a near vertical cleft about two feet wide. The stream also flows over this ramp.
Most of the cave from this point on is fault-controlled and from the base of the ramp the passage is quieter. After a short distance of narrow rift passage with evidence of a thick calcite vein along the fault line, one soon reaches the Duck, a low section which is tight rather than wet. Immediately after the Duck, the rift becomes too narrow to follow at stream level, and it becomes necessary to traverse above the stream for about thirty feet until it becomes possible to climb down into a wider part of the passage where the roof rises to a height of about fifty feet. On the right of this handsome passage is an alcove, behind which is an inviting side passage which soon closes down among boulders after some distance of deep calf wading.
Back in the main stream passage and about 300' past the side passage, is the final 25' pot (25' ladder, short belay) which is probably the wettest pitch of all - the ladder hanging in the full force of the stream. The surface of this pot is also more broken than the others, making it more difficult to climb the ladder.
From the deep pool at the base of the pitch, the passage continues as a wide, towering rift with some shallow canal sections, until the roof lowers to form a crawl in slow-moving clear, cold water with ducks under formations. From here, the water gradually becomes deeper and the walls become darker and close in. Little alcoves cause the water to make those eerie glooping noises, and in this fashion the passage peters out into the sump at the remarkable depth of just over 500' below the surface. The sump has been successfully dived, as described in the S.M.C.C. Journal (Vol. 5, No.5, 1973)
Although not as severe as sane longer
NOTES ON SIMPSON'S POT
The following day, we met up with Keith Sanderson and Bob
Harper (both
1. The rawlbolt on one of the pitches (31' Carol Pot, I think) has come out, so a flake of rock has to serve as a belay point. Care has to be taken not to jam the abseil rope.
2. There is no bolt on the 25' Aven Pot either and one has to use a rock flake again, and the same precaution applies.
3. No bolt on 13'
4. The top of the 80' Slit Pot is as awkward as ever!
(A plan of Tatham Wife Hole will be found below. - Ed.)
Subscriptions Belfry
Club Ties & Car Badges Telephone
Tackle
C.C.C. Permits etc. Donation |
Receipts Less Expenditure Sales Contributions Less Charges Fees Less Expenditure
|
£ 535.67 £ 245.15
£ 58.74 £ 54.21
£ 7.67 £ 1.44
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£ 380.15
£ 290.52 £ 5.00
£ 4.35
£ 6.23 £ 10.53 £ 9.75 |
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|
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£ 706.31 |
Postages And Stationery
Publications
|
Stationery & Printing
B.B. Postage
Less sales
|
£ 311.71
£ 62.94
£ 374.65
£ 134.92
|
£ 15.83
|
Annual Dinner
|
Receipts
Less cost
|
£ 218.75
£ 232.54
|
£ 13.79
|
Library
|
|
|
£ 14.06
|
Car Badges
|
Purchases
Less Sales
|
£ 14.48
£ 11.00
|
£ 14.06
|
Carbide and Spares
|
Purchases
Less Sales
|
£ 43.25
£ 7.14
|
£ 36.11
|
Public Liability Insurance.
Income Tax
Cambrian C.C.
Council Northern C.C.
Council Southern C. C.
A.G.M. refreshments
Ian Dear memorial Fund grants
|
|
|
£ 47.30
£ 7.50
£ 3.00
£ 2.00
£ 0.50
£ 3.00
£ 11.00
£ 90.00
|
Surplus For The Year
|
|
|
£ 483.82
£ 222.89
|
|
|
|
£ 706.71
|
General Accumulated
Add Surplus For The Year
|
FUNDS @ 31.7.73
|
|
£ 485.25
£ 222.89
|
General Accumulated
I.D.M.F. to Building Society
Interest on April 1st 1974
|
FUNDS @ 31.7.74
|
|
£ 708.14
£ 348.04
£ 8.12
|
|
|
|
£ 356.16
|
Lloyds Bank Ltd Current Account
Cash in hand
|
|
|
£ 578.37
£ 129.77
|
TOTAL CUB MONIES @ 31.7.72
|
|
|
£ 708.14
|
1. Firstly, I must state that the accounts are made up and detailed as in previous years. My intention was to gain experience in operating the club accounts before I carried out the Hon. Auditor's suggestion of giving a more detailed statement.
2. Late this year, the Ian Dear Memorial Fund
Committee approved three applications for grants to members travelling
abroad. As the I.D.M. Fund is held in a
building society in
3. During the current year we were strongly advised by our insurance brokers that our public liability insurance cover of £50,000 was inadequate. On this advice, our cover was increased to £100,000. This is, of course, resulting in a higher premium for year. There is a possibility that the cover may to be increased again during the coming year.
4. This year's carbide and lamp spares etc. account is shown as making a loss. This was due to late purchase of lamp spares totalling £23.25 the sales from which will be credited in next years' account.
5. The Belfry Insurance cover of £5,000 has been increased to a more realistic figure of £12,000.
6. The apparent deficit in the publication stationery & printing account of £311.71 is not as bad as it seems because a large outstanding bill of £171.14 from the previous year was paid during the current year, making this years account more realistic.
The tackle situation is at present as follows: -
The GENERAL TACKLE STORE holds
100' of lightweight ladder
150' of standard ladder
290' of rope.
The RESERVE TACKLE STORE holds
225' of lightweight ladder
355' of rope.
Some 700' of rope is about to be brought into service and this includes 500' of new polypropylene; 150' of lightweight ladder and 165' of standard ladder is under repair and should be in service again in September. A further 500' of nylon rope is to be purchased by Christmas and about 100' of ladder is to be manufactured along with several tethers.
60' OF LADDER AND 200' OF ROPE ARE MISSING.
It should be remembered that the Tacklemaster's job is not simply to maintain existing tackle, but also to make or buy new equipment in order to increase our stock to cope with the demand made by more cavers going further a field in more difficult and complex systems. However, time and the apparently excessive wear on tackle have so far combined to preclude the manufacture of new equipment.
A great deal more care must be taken with all tackle, both above and below ground. Ropes should not be trodden on. Ladders should be lowered, not dropped. If ladders snag - especially when being carried in narrow passages - they should be removed carefully and not pulled off. Much damage is done to eyes at ladder ends; wires, and even rungs and the only possible cause is the dropping of heavy objects, such as rocks, on top of tackle. All our tethers are badly kinked, because insufficient care has been taken in selecting belays.
Back on the surface, ladders and ropes are not always washed thoroughly. It is important to remove mud from ladders, as it retains moisture and promotes corrosion. Ropes should be very thoroughly washed to remove grit one quick dip in the pool is not good enough.
The amount of ladder under repair, and the number of ropes that have been written off this year, are disturbing. Please take note of all that has been said above.
Some tackle has been lost, and this should never happen without its being accounted for. However, tackle has been borrowed by non-club members and not returned. In one instance, members of a Yeovil club were lent a Belfry key, and they subsequently borrowed a large amount of Belfry tackle. One of the ladders borrowed was not returned, and this was not missed until one of the Priddy villagers found it on the Upper Green.
Some tackle is borrowed without its being signed out and some is not always signed back. Tackle is all too frequently left lying about the Belfry or in the drinking pool. Little wonder that tackle gets lost!
NON-CLUB MEMBERS MAY NOT BORROW OUR TACKLE UNDER
Where tackle is left at the top of a pitch, or possibly used by other parties as well, the standard weight ladder should be used, as wear is less apparent. Swildons 20 is a case in point.
So much for wear and tear on, and loss of, tackle. In spite of what has been said, the situation is not as bad as it appears, as very little money has been spent on the tackle recently. The attempt to save money by having tellurite pressed on by friends in the trade has failed, as four to five months waiting have shown. Although the present 315 feet of ladder, together with some new ladder all requiring tellurite will still be finished locally, in future, pressing for ladders and tethers will either be done professionally (and we shall have to pay some £1.50 for this per ladder) or we shall use our own tellurite press, which we acquired recently and which is at present undergoing repair.
Some of the digging tackle has been seriously misused this year, with instances of digging ropes being used as lifelines. Digging ropes are identified by black markings on their ends, in addition to the blue B.E.C. identification marks. PLEASE NOTE THIS and do not use any rope so marked as a lifeline. Digging tackle should be signed out in the usual way where possible. There is no abundance of digging tackle, so look after it - especially on site. If it is to be left on a digging site over a period of time, let the Tacklemaster know. This applies also to ordinary tackle left underground, as happens frequently on exploratory trips.
Many people seem to be unaware of the existence of the reserve tackle store. The equipment in this store is especially for trips to other areas, and includes all the ultra lightweight ladder. It has been used only five times this year. The Tacklemaster MUST know if any equipment is required for expeditions, in order to ensure that 100' of ladder and appropriate lifelines are left available for general use on Mendip.
In conclusion, I would like to thank the nameless few (how I wish I could say 'hordes'!) who have helped and offered to help with tackle manufacture and maintenance, or have proffered advice, or even donated tackle.
Graham Wilton-Jones.
Tacklemaster.
A Monthly Miscellany
By 'Wig'
128. News from the North: Since the rescue from Birks Fell early in the
year, relations between the farmer and landowner and cavers seem to be
deteriorating. Cavers were prevented
from entering the cave until May 1974. The position is being reviewed again at the end of October. A rumour is circulating that access is
difficult to both Strans Gill and Pasture Gill. Confirmation is still awaited.
Difficulty is being experienced at Monge Gill as the cave is not
properly gated. Bookings for Gingling
Hole should be made as soon as possible for 1975 as the cave has been
closed due to a misunderstanding with the owner. Members visiting any of the pots on Penyghent
should ensure that they call on the game keeper, George Perfect at Brackenbottom
before they descend. Magnetometer Pot
is unsafe due to corroded oil drums lining the shaft.
Access to Pippikin is not restricted to any part of the year (as is
other parts of the dales for grouse shooting). This is conditional on cavers approaching the cave from Bullpot Farm and
not from the Leek Fell road during the grouse breeding season. From Bullpot Farm, proceed via
Cherry Tree Hole is still closed. Pikedaw Mine will be re-opened as soon as the lid is completed
and there will be unrestricted access.
Special Weather forecasts. C .N.C.C. have arranged to display weather forecast
notices outside the Youth Hostel in Kettlewell. Finally, work on a new edition of the Northern cave handbook is well
under way.
129. News from
130. Social: Congratulations to Doug Stuckey. Word has filtered through the grapevine that Doug is now the father of a
bouncing baby boy. Has anyone heard any
thing of Sybil? The last we heard is
that she was in
131. St. Cuthberts Swallet - Report and Survey: The now well-known and long overdue report on St. Cuthberts is so planned to be the most comprehensive report that has ever been produced for any cave in the country including Lancaster/Easegill and O.F.D. The whole report is designed to be published in fifteen parts - to produce it in one volume would have proved prohibitive. Altogether it is at least 350 pages and some 30 surveys will be included together with a number of photographs (not necessarily of pretties, but interesting features of the cave). The parts are as follows:-
Caving Report Number 13:
· Part A Discovery & Exploration. Published. Now out of print.
· Part B Complete Survey.
· Part C Description and detailed survey of Old and New Routes.
· Part D Main Chambers.
· Part E Rabbit Warren. Published. Still in print.
· Part F Gour Hall Area. Published. Still in Print.
· Part G Cerberus & Maypole Series.
· Part H Rabbit Warren Extension. Published. In print
· Part I September Series.
· Part J Long Chamber & Canyon Series.
· Part K Rocky
· Part L Geological Notes.
· Part M Hydrological Notes.
· Part N Flora & Fauna.
· Part O Miscellaneous information and Bibliography. (Published - now out of print.)
Already, many members have booked the whole range of the report - and members who have not yet done so should contact the Publications Editor. When all the parts of the report are published, those who want the whole lot to be bound as a complete book can send them back to the club and have them bound in rexine. Ten copies, being bound in leather and rexine, have already been sold.
132. Corrections: Two recent pieces of information must be
corrected. Terry Bakers digging site
near the Mells valley is NOT the site as mentioned in para 118. This is being dug by Willie Stanton. Bakers dig is apparently further down the
valley and much higher and is mainly archaeological. More details later. The second piece of information which needs t
to be brought up to date refers to Cowsh Avens (111.) The hoped-for breakthrough to the surface has
NOT been agreed to by the
by the Tacklemaster.
Five hundred feet of staple-spun polypropylene rope of an inch and a half circumference, is to be added to the reserve tackle store.
This rope will be in three lengths. Two ropes of a hundred and twenty five feet each and one of two hundred and fifty feet. The rope is intended for use as lifeline ONLY. It is definitely NOT suitable for abseiling, and indeed, could be DANGEROUS if so used, as it has a rather low melting point compared with that of nylon. It is not good as a climbing lifeline either - whether on the surface or underground - as it has only a 23% stretch at breaking point.
In addition to these disadvantages, it can easily twist itself into all manner of knots, if not handled with care - especially when being coiled. It is coiled more easily by allowing the free end to hang over a pitch so that it can untwist. Although I see many arguments over this choice of rope, I hope that members will soon discover for themselves certain advantages, not the least of which is the cost.
Editor's Note: I bought thirty fathoms of a similar rope last year for use as an anchor rope. It is proved very good in service except for this habit of tying itself into all manner of knots at the slightest provocation. I solved the problem by winding it over two pegs, crossing the rope on every turn round the pegs. This puts an opposite twist into every alternate turn of the rope, so twists never build up in one direction. With very long ropes, such as those described by Graham, it might pay to have a simple and light weight frame built up, so that the rope can be coiled up on it in this fashion. If you have a top bar which can go over the pegs after coiling, this will prevent the rope from coming off while carrying through a cave.
Pete Sutton sends us this hard hitting contribution on the Climbing Section. Perhaps we shall get a suitable reply?
It seems that the Climbing Section - like the Liberals have taken a slight setback in recent times, although I think the picture is not as black as might have been portrayed,
Although a considerable portion of the Climbing Section has definitely stagnated, several of us have actually carried on the tradition of climbing. This must be to the amazement of some others, who have taken to dancing on horizontal floors instead of up vertical walls.
One thing that has been sadly missed is the tradition of the
Climbing Section going away together on Bank Holiday weekends. Excepting Easter weekend, which was a
combined caving, climbing and drinking weekend - not necessasarily in that
order - the majority of the Climbing Section elected not to uphold old
traditions of the B.E.C in having climbing weekends, but rather to following
new 'old' traditions of a more uniformed nature, B.E.C. ties were left behind. The group did manage a weeks summer holiday
in Pembrokeshire and
Even so, the Climbing Section was represented in
As Gerry mentioned in his climbing report, Thursday evening climbing again took place this year in the Avon Gorge. The terribly wet weather through the summer months - it always seemed to rain on Thursday evenings - had its bad effect on climbing, but even so it was disappointing previous regulars couldn't always find the time to come along.
Here, I feel that I must sound a note of warning. The few remaining members who are active climbers cannot, and will not forever be loners. Already, substantial moves have been made away from the club in an effort to broaden the sphere of activity. A number of trips have been made recently with the Egons Climbing Club - a club incidentally which does not limit its climbing on Sundays to the Avon Gorge and which does not take the view that if you can't climb H.V.S. - then tough luck! Instead, it travels to places some people might have never been to, like Chudleigh Gower, Symond's Yat, Cefn Coed, Maelstrom Quarries etc, and caters for beginners; moderates or hard climbers. As individuals, they also make outsiders welcome and able to feel one of them almost immediately - a feature which has been sadly lacking amongst our own Climbing Section.
Still, we mustn't end on a note of gloom. Three or four more active climbers are on the books, and it's up to us, both active climbers and stagnated ones (sorry about that!) to make them feel welcome and transform the B.E.C. Climbing Section once more into an active, lively and social group, within the general structure of the club as a whole. I feel also that much greater liaison will occur between B.E.C. and other climbing groups which I am sure can only be beneficial to the participants.
Editor's Note: Well, there you are, climbers! It seems that, to one of your number at least, all is not as well as it might be. Ever since the B.B. was first produced in 1947, it has been enriched by tales of the exploits of club climbers - from the early episodes of the Menace (John Morris); 'Orrible Orren; Ron (Holler-in-the-night) Newman, and many other equally colourful people, not forgetting the ubiquitous 'Kangy' King. Perhaps one answer might be to encourage more 'all-rounders' like Kangy, and have more interaction between cavers and climbers. Any further correspondence on this subject would be welcome, since one of the functions of the B.B. is to enable club members to air their views on subjects such as this.
Historic Cornish Mining Scenes Underground - D.B. Barton (First Published 1967.)
'Mongst Mines and Miners - J.C. Burrow and L. Thomas (First published 1893, Reprinted 1965)
Although at first sight deep mining in Cornwall for copper and tin appears to have little in common with lead mining on Mendip, the above two publications give an interesting insight into what life must have been like underground for the eighteenth and nineteenth century miner. Both books, or rather booklets, are full of first class photographs taken before the turn of the century both above and below ground in the Cornish mines and both contain lucid accounts of the mining techniques of the day. Apart from the obvious variations due to the scale of mining in Cornwall when compared with that on Mendip, the techniques illustrated must compare closely with these used in the Mendip lead mines in their heyday.
Both books are published by D. Bradford Barton Ltd., of
C.H.
Book reviews are always welcome, and the editor will be pleased to publish any more that come his way.
CHRISTMAS B.B. It is the intention to publish a larger than usual edition of the B.B. once again this year. So far, there is just about enough material in the pipeline for a normal sized B.B, and a decision on the final size of the Christmas B.B. will have to be taken soon. Particularly wanted are one or two articles of good length (and: of course, good content) and any good humorous material suitable for the festive season.
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Across:
3. Short county forms cave
feature. (4)
5. As tart in layers underground. (6)
6. Stumble on caving? (4)
7. Large number of tall cave passages form mine passages. (6)
11. Progresses through 3 across. (6)
13. Type of cave deposit. (4)
14. If clay does this, it may well break into this beheaded. (6)
15. Survey height in disturbed pots. (4)
Down
1. Employed. (4)
2. This sort of pipe can be found on Mendip. (4)
3. Cave dwellers. (4)
4. Cave phenomenon in earlier part of Priddy. (4)
8. Mendip cave hall. (3).
9. Caves without touching walls or floor
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.through this? (4)
11. Found in any fossiliferous rock. (4)
12. Discoverers of a well know Mendip cave. (1,1,1,1)
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PRIZE CROSSWORD. This was won by 'Sett'.
The Belfry,
Chairman S.J. Collins
Minutes Sec G.
Members Colin Dooley, John Dukes, Chris Howell, Dave Irwin, Tim Large, Andy Nicholls, Gerry Oaten, Barry Wilton
Honorary Secretary D.J
IRWIN, Townsend Cottage, Townsend, Priddy, Wells Som. Tel : PRIDDY 369
Honorary Treasurer B.
Caving Secretary A.
NICHOLLS, c/o The Belfry
Assist Cav. Sec. T.
LARGE,
Climbing Secretary G.
OATEN,
Tacklemaster G.
WILTON-JONES, Ilenea,
Tele
: HIGH WYCOMBE 3534
Hut Warden C.
DOOLEY, 51 Ommaston Road., Harbourne,
Tele
:
Belfry Engineer J.
DUKES, 4
B.B. Editor S.J.
COLLINS, Lavender Cottage, Bishops Sutton, Nr. Bristol.
Tel
: CHEW MAGNA 2915
Publications Editor C.
HOWELL,
B.B. Postal BRENDA
Spares T.
LARGE, Address already given
QUODCUMQUE FACIENDUM : NIMIS FACIEMUS
Hopefully, by the time this B.B. comes out,
nominations for the 1974-5 committee election will be in, and will provide
enough candidates for an election to be held. It goes without saying that all members should vote and as many as
possible turn up to the A.G.M. itself. It is only by doing so that we can be sure that the B.E.C. reflects the
wishes of its members.
Some readers may by now have seen the booklet
which represents the Southern Council's official policy on the subject of
novice training - or at any rate have heard of its existence. Since the B.E.C. is one of the clubs
endorsing this booklet, it may be of interest to quote one or two of the items
affecting the general philosophy behind the scheme. For example, 'It is certainly very dangerous,
and probably incorrect, to present caving as a sport or game; times taken,
points reached, numbers of obstacles overcome and, above all, any aspects of
competition either imagined or contrived are wholly irrelevant. The level of personal satisfaction obtained
by the successful exploration of part of a cave system must be the only
criterion. There are no summits to be
conquered or records to beat in a cave. Thus, the sole raison d'etre of caving is the exploration of an alien
and unknown environment. It may better
be described as a hobby.' In this
connection, schemes for the severity grading of caves, an example of which
formed the subject of a recent article in the B.B. ,are acceptable provided
that they are used for information rather then for any competitive reason.
To mark the 50th appearance of the B.B. crossword,
this month's crossword carries a prize of a bottle of wine which, if bought at
the dinner, will be paid for in the case of the first person to present the
editor with a correct solution. If, by
any chance, this B.B. arrives too late for the dinner, the prize will be paid
out retrospectively to the winner. Naturally, the clues are a trifle harder than normal.
Alfie
Warren Cottage,
Flax Bourton.
1st August 1974.
I was interested to see in the June B.B. that a
tackle refurbishing programme was in progress. As the person who, I think, produced the first C links for the club
(from an organisation with a not dissimilar abbreviated name) perhaps some comments
might be of interest. I know that much
water has flowed down holes since the early days and probably the links have
been the subject of considerable study, but if some of the originals are still
in use, as I believe they may be the original criteria that some of us decided
upon for the originals cannot have been too wide of the mark.
First and foremost, remember that not all chain
links can provide suitable raw material for C links, although chain links are
probably the best part-finished starting point. The links that we used were from high strength steel chain hoist
links. High strength, that is, in
relation to the average link and not to steels in general. Many chains are too malleable and 'C' links
from them are liable to open up progressively in use. Also, do not go from really high strength
steels. The weight saving does not
outweigh the handling problems or other nastinesses during prolonged life.
Second, subject each link to a proof load
test. I cannot remember the figure we
used, but I know it was related to the range of cable strengths we
envisaged. It was also rather less than
the heaviest failing load of cables, as we argued that links would not see the
same stress concentrations and abrasion as the cables. If any are still in service, their markings
will give you the figure we used.
Third, mark the safe working load (which was half
our proof load) by light stamping on the side of the curved end of each
link. It could be argued that this
should be done before proof testing, but I recall that we found that we did not
affect either the proof or failing loads of the links we made by stamping
afterwards.
Fourth, protect each link by some form of surface
protective treatment such as zinc or cadmium plating. It will wear in time, but will prolong life
and can be replaced as necessary.
Finally, as a check, take a sample of the links
and load them, in pairs, to failure. This failing load should be at least 50% above the proof load. It normally will be. I am sure that the B.E.C. still has access to
such normal facilities as test machines and plating baths. If not, I may be able to help.
Yours Sincerely,
Tony Johnson.
Editor's Note: Tony may be
surprised to learn that all the links at present in use, as far as I know, are
from the original batch - although I am not sure if they were all stamped. Present day members may be surprised to learn
something of the care which people like Tony put into making things for club
tackle. I am sure that this information
will be of great use in tackle making.
The past year has been a turbulent one in the
B.E.C. not, unfortunately, characterised by the amount of caving that has been
done or successful action on the part of the committee. The doubling of the membership subscription
to £2.50 resulted in a net fall in membership. A further years inflation indicates that £2.50 is very cheap for B.E.C.
membership now, and perhaps some of the people who have let their membership
lapse, may renew it at the time of the dinner.
Early in the year, I attended the Grampian Dinner
held in the
The committee has had no difficulty in maintaining
a quorum. N. Jago and D. Stuckey
resigned and were replaced by G. Oaten and A. Nichols respectively.
Early in its term of office, the committee had
several difficult problems to deal with. Their task was not made easier by the stubborn refusal on the part of
some members to answer letters. Disloyalty to the democratically elected committee by certain members
who were not prepared to do the job themselves has unfortunately also occurred. Essential business with Mr. Foxwell has not
been aided by individual members carrying on their own feuds with him. However, after four years I am glad to say
that the deed of variation has now been signed by all parties and there is no
longer fear that we might have to payout large sums in this respect.
Some of the difficulties of the committee were of
their own making. I would list irregular
attendance; reluctance to continue when there is a danger of missing the
Hunters; personality clashes between members; reluctance to discuss important
but boring matters; not carrying out actions previously agreed; a tendency to
make rash statements in ignorance and even to tell lies to the committee and,
finally, refusal of small minorities to stand by the decision of large
majorities as the more serious short-comings of the present committee.
I am not trying to slate the committee of which I
have been a member, but hope these criticisms may serve as advice for the
future. I am sure the other officers of the
club could list the shortcomings of the Secretary and it would be a good idea
if they did so for the guidance of my successor.
Our positions in the Cambrian and Southern
Councils and the National Caving Association have been strong and relations
with M.R.O. have been excellent. We have
been forced by needs of access to affiliate to the Northern Council. We supported the rejection of an application
from B.A.C.I. for membership of the Cambrian Council. The Council of Southern Caving Clubs has set
up its company. The trustees are
'Alfie', Oliver Lloyd, Frank Murphy (of Spelaeo Rhal) and myself. Mention should be made here of the excellent
work done by Nigel Taylor in extending the M.R.O. store.
Nigel Taylor is not offering himself for
re-election. He has worked extremely
hard at the running of the Belfry, always difficult and this year particularly
so. He richly deserves the thanks of the
club. My own reasons for not standing
this year are complicated. Suffice to
say that I wish my successor well and will afford him any assistance I can.
There are four new candidates this year, a healthy
sign, and I will just remind the electorate that one copy of the ballot paper
is sent to each member who has paid his subscription by the date on which they
are sent out. It may be returned to me
by post or handed to the chairman at the A.G.M. Persons paying their subscription later are not entitled to vote, and no
may be given a second paper according to the rules.
A. Thomas.
Hon. Sec.
Andrew Nichols sends us
this account of the recent trip to the
For the last three years, Andy Nichols has
trundled his way South to the Basses
We arrived on the 15th August and stayed until the
end of the month at our usual riverside campsite at Licq-Atherey. By the 17th, even Andy had recovered from the
trauma of arrival and he showed Malcolm, Sue and John around Betzulako
Harpia, a cave high above the Col d'Erroimendi - pushed over the years by
C.U.C.C. to the respectable length of 4 kilometres and notable for some
excellent formations; the perfectly preserved claw marks of cave bears who
climb fifty foot pitches, and lots of loose rocks.
The following day Andy, John and Malcolm struggled
up a nearby mountain, with C.U.C.C's Mike Perryman, to descend Betchenkako
Lezia. Further up the mountain is
the Gouffre d'Aphanices, discovered in 1972 and with three big pitches followed
by a monstrous one of 328 metres (1,076 ft.) wet! Betchenka is much milder, with 180ft entrance
followed by a series of vast chambers - an enjoyable trip which gripped John's
imagination so much that he will deal with it in a separate report.
On Monday 19th, we festered. A hotel in nearby Tardets burnt down, which
whiled away the afternoon until Mike and Pat arrived with their children and
Graham. Tuesday saw us at the
The 21st provided us with genuine rain. We went for a walk up the Ehujarre gorge from
Ste Engrace, a very silly business where Andy proved to be the only person
without a cagoule and kept moaning like a demented Yeti about how wet he
was. Thursday was overcast but drier, so
the whole party assembled at the Relais de la P.S.M. for a walk which took in
the Lepineux and Tete Sauvage entrances to the
Sad to say, a few miles later, three of the six
sneaked off into the mist again in the direction of the bottles "just to
see if they're still there, you understand. We wouldn't want anything to happen to them, would we?" Nothing had. John, Malcolm and Andy went into
a huddle and decided that nobody would mind if we went back with a bottle each
in our pockets, but we were the B.E.C.
Local shepherds must have been surprised to see
John ambling down the track to the relais, whistling nonchalantly, then hear
him galloping away every time the mist swirled back and pretending to be a
Pyrenean sheep in a hurry. Behind him,
Andy and Malcolm lurched about in the fog, carrying something that rattled and
bumped.
"Hey, Stop! What's that noise? Not another bloody shepherd?"
"What noise?"
"Shhh
.There it
goes again! Shall we run?"
"Oh, that! My guts again! - better carry on!"
.lurch, rattle,
totter
..
Christ, this crate's
heavy! I must have a rest!"
Well, we've got
fifteen bottles in it. 'Course it's
heavy!"
Lets drink another
one now. Make it a bit lighter."
A grinding of gears comes out of the mist, and
Andy and Malc drop the crate in a panic and leap off the roadside to hide in a
hole in the clints, listening for "We are the Exploration Club"
played on a sheep bell which would indicate the return of John in the getaway
car. But this is only another shepherd's
car. Andy and Malc manage to find the
crate again and pick it up, cursing. Eventually they reach the relais and creep forward to see what has gone
wrong.
In true B.E.C. tradition, the getaway car has
broken down. A flat battery between us
and the biggest wine haul in history. In
the end, we just load the crate in and it rattles so much as we bump-start
John's car down 4,000ft of hill that every gendarme between the relais and
On the 23rd, the weather changed, and in the whole
party walked off up the extremely impressive Kakouetta Gorge from Ste Engrace
to a point where the path ran out and the heat, the dust and the flies became
too much.
"Of course, you
can't get up the 100 ft cliffs at the end without pegs and etriers", the
little man at the cafe assured us.
"Nonsense! We'll find a way up if it takes all
day!" said Mike, Graham, Steve and Malc. They did, and it was desperate - and it took all day.
"So what?
"said Pat, Andy, John and Sue. "We're going back." And
that didn't take any time at all!
The weather was equally good the next day, so we
went for a short walk up the Holzarte Gorge, the neighbour to the
Kakouetta. The highpoint was the
suspension bridge across it which might have been designed by Brunel after the
pub, and looked as if it hadn't been maintained since. A good four hundred feet up, it was - and
vibrated to the lightest step of the smallest Palmer. Some walked slowly across; some shuffled
uneasily, wishing they hadn't eaten sardines and raw onions for lunch; Malcolm
pounded across it like a rampaging elephant, bellowing, "Don't
panic!" at every bounce.
On Sunday, 25th everyone went up to the E.D.F.
Hut, as Andy had negotiated a trip in the P.S.M. via Ruben Gomez and Doninique
Prebende. Entry was by the E.D.F. tunnel
to the Salle Verna, the second largest chamber in the world. The non-cavers (Pat, the two children and
Steve) followed us a short distance up the streamway before being conducted
back to the entrance. Is Miss K. Palmer,
at 5 years old, the youngest person ever to have been in the deepest cave in
the world? The remaining six then set
off back upstream towards the foot of the Lapineux shaft and the memorial to
Loubens - but we'd left it too late starting and were able to get no further
than the traverse above the Salle Chevalier before time turned us back.
That evening was also marked by a birthday party,
or rather by its beginning, since the nearby town of Tardets was 'en fete' all
week and allowed several of us to stagger round with the level of blood in our
alcohol systems reduced to normal Mendip level for days on end.
Monday was occupied again by Betchenkako Lezia
where John, Malcolm, Sue, Andy and Graham had an enjoyable trip which took in
all the known cave, estimated as some three kilometres with a maximum depth of
130 metres (426ft).
Tuesday was a fester day for all of us, combined
with a trip to Oloron Ste Marie to borrow pitons for Wednesday's epic climb.
The climb, led by Mike and John, supported by
Malcolm Sue and Graham, was to recover a maypole in the Grotte de la
Stalactite Deviee, a short dry and well-decorated cave next to the great
cascade resurgence in the Kakouetta Gorge. The resurgence is a major one, possibly for Anialarra, and the maypole
had been used in an unsuccessful attempt to by-pass the fifth sump behind the
cascade itself. To recover it, an 18m
(60ft) overhanging pitch had to be pegged all the way. Bolts, which might have eased the problem,
were unobtainable and after five hours our heroes were just over a third of the
way up.
The following day, the same team minus Mike and Sue
climbed another five metres (16ft), but had to abandon the job through lack of
time and bolts. Two pitons shattered in
use, which didn't help. So the maypole
is still there and the passage it was used to reach is still un-entered.
Thursday was the last day. Mike, Steve and Andy crawl up a small but
ludicrously steep mountain which overhung Licq and had to be climbed if only
for the name - Le Chapeau du Gendarme. Later, Mike, Pat and Andy took advantage of the cloudless sky to revisit
the relais and photograph the lapiaz, followed by John, Malcolm and Graham
after they had removed all the tackle from La Stalactite Deviee. Then everyone went to the hotel at Lanne for
a meal and an evening on the alcohol. Or
perhaps that was the evening before? Or
did we stay in Licq that evening? The
trouble with these week-long birthdays is that they make everything damnably
confusing. Anyway, wherever we went, the
white crème de Menthe fairly flowed! And
on Friday 30th August, we left for
Once again, the climbing section seems to
stagnate, but, like a volcano, ready to erupt into life. SNOW - thats what we were waiting for last
winter to erupt us to life! We had hoped
to get a little snow and ice climbing done in
There were no organised meets arranged mainly because
of the three day week, and the increase in the cost of fuel.
The start of May saw interest taking place on
Thursday evenings at the Avon Gorge. Then members started doing some of the H.V.S. routes in the gorge on
Sundays. On a couple of occasions we
really excelled ourselves and went to Wintour's Leap, Monmouthshire, where we
nearly frightened ourselves to death.
The climbing holiday this year was at
Pembrokeshire and
I think the main reason for lack of interest in
the section is the areas we climb in. We
are lucky to have such a large chunk of rock as the Avon Gorge on our door
step, but if you do not climb constantly at H.V.S. or above, the routes left
open to you are limited. Therefore going
the same climbs week after week gets somewhat tedious. The Cheddar Gorge, lovely beauty spot, which
is exactly what it is. In the summer you
can't climb there because of tourists. In the winter it's either too wet, too cold or the days are too short.
Lets hope that, with the coming of new blood into
the section, the fire to climb will once more be rekindled and give the
climbing section the new lease of life it so sadly needs.
G. OATEN,
Climbing Sec.
*****************************************
Dont forget the A.G.M & DINNER. SATURDAY 5th OCTOBER 1974
A.G.M. starts at the Belfry at 10.30 a.m. Dinner is the same evening. BOOK
WITH BARRY FOR THE DINNER BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! (See last months B.B. for
full details).
A Monthly Miscellany
By 'Wig'
111. Priddy Green Sink. Fred Davies and Ray Mansfield
have almost reached their goal. Cowsh
Aven is now within twenty feet of the surface. A radio transmission located the spot in mid august and found it to be
at the rear of the cowsheds (shibbins, if you are of West Country farming
stock!) As part of the agreement with
the
112.
113. Belfry fire repositioned. Our grateful thanks to Bucket
Tilbury for the magnificent job of removing the Belfry fire from its old
position against the rear wall and replacing it in its new position just off
centre of the room. Apart from the
chimney - now free of the double bend which was necessary to get it out through
the rear wall, it allows people to sit round it and will throw more heat into
the room.
114. M.R.O. goes 999. As from September 1st 1974, the
callout procedure has been changed. In
future, all that is necessary is to dial 999 and ask the operator for: -
POLICE , CAVE RESCUE
After the police have
been contacted, STAY AT THE PHONE UNTIL CONTACTED BY AN M.R.O. WARDEN. The M.R.O. signs outside caves have all been
changed. They were changed by Prew, Wig
and Fred Davies together with helpers on August 31st, and the old signs were
auctioned at the C.R.O. conference in September.
115. New Caving Reports at the
A.G.M. Two new
Caving Reports will be available. Number
14, the long awaited PYRENEAN REPORT by Roy Bennett and the first of the
journal type of CAVE NOTES 1974. Both
reports will cost 30p each. Only 100
copies are available of each report. Also, a reprint of Caving Report number 1
116. Combwich (Cannington)
117. Roy Bennett at Chepstow.
118. Terry Baker's Dig. Near the Mells Ironworks is
proving very interesting according to Nig Taylor." It lies on the edge of the river, in a
similar position to Little Neath River Cave and if it goes it should prove very
wet and interesting! Talking of Nig
Taylor, I wonder if he has given up the game of cops and robbers? Anyway, N.R.A.S.A. are back together again
digging somewhere (won't say where) but it appears to be an interesting dig.
119. Rock Drills. Several clubs have developed
various types of rock drill to aid in persuading caves to move chemically. Tim Large has spent quite a sum of money and
time producing an improved rock drill based on an U.L.S.A. design. It should prove interesting. What about a paper for the journal type of
Caving Report, Tim?
120. Tights for Cavers! Those who still depend on
woollies for their caving exploits will breathe a sigh of relief that there are
nylon tights on the market of interest to cavers. Long Johns used to be the main stand by for
the woolly wearers, but their price - about £2 to £3 nowadays - made one think
twice about buying them. Now nylon
tights have been produced for football and athletic training - complete with
zip if you require one - and are obtainable at Lewis's and Jones's at
121. Material for the B. B. and for Caving Reports should be
forthcoming from the various individuals who went on continental holidays this
year - and who were lucky enough to avoid the collapsing travel agents.
122. Swildons Hole. The Wessex Cave Club have done
it again. An 80 odd page booklet of
photographic record of Swildons Hole, including 60 pages of photographs going
as far as Swildons 12 (although the photograph does give the impression of
being taken in any stream cave!) The
price is £12 leather bound and £9 rexine bound and the edition is limited to
300 copies. Apparently
123. Well at Bathford. The first of the new
multi-subject Caving Reports contains a description of a well at Bathford which
was examined by Alan Thomas, Dave Irwin and Tony Tucker on the 18th August at
the invitation of the owner who was put in touch with Alan by Martin Cavender
of Harris and Harris, the club solicitors.
124. Caves of Derbyshire. A copy of the new edition of
this book has been donated to the club library by Tony Oldham. As many will know, Tony deals in caving
publications and is prepared to send any member his current list of available
books free. Write to A.D. Oldham,
125. Social and Scandal. Congratulations to Maggie and
Tim Large on the birth of a son - it appears to live up to its father's name by
being 8lb 12oz. Doing it to excess
again, Large! Our congratulation too to
Alfie and Sally who have another daughter, born a day after Tim and Maggie's
son. In the next bed to Sally at
126. Cuthberts Celebrations. On the 4th September, a
distinguished gathering met at the Belfry and, under the leadership of the
venerable Bennett and with Kangy following some way behind carefully carrying
two bottles of champers together with the glasses (actually plastic cream
cartons). It was gratifying to see many
of the early leaders present even though two of them didn't actually make it to
the cave entrance but sat it out in the solitude of the Hunters. The main party descended via the Waterfall
and Wet pitches to the Water Chute and on through the By-Pass to congregate in
the Dining Room. An argument developed
as to the location of the concrete dining table. However, this was located and the drinks set
up in an orderly fashion.
Kangy, having poured the drinks out and passed round the remainder of the booze
in the bottle, called on the venerable Bennett to propose the toast to St.
Cuthbert. Having duly taken our fill of
the sparkling wine, the discussion moved on to talk of having a similar event
to mark the 25th anniversary.
Those present included the two most important - they descended the rift first
to the head of Arête Pitch - Viv Brown and Roy Bennett, followed by Kangy;
Martin Mills; (straight from his three months tour of the U.S.A.); John
Eatough; Colin Clarke; Mike Palmer; Mike Wheadon; another venerable - Chris
Falshaw; Phil Kingston; Tony Meadon; the Golden Oldie of Cowsh fame - Fred
Davies; Wig; Tim Large; Barry (Goldilocks) Lane; Steve Tuck; John Attwood;
Martin Webster (again, straight from a U.S.A. trip) and last but not least,
Dave (Twittering) Turner.
Following the leaders get together, all surfaced and joined Albert Francis;
Norman Petty and Roger Stenner in the pub.
127. Polypropylene rope. Several lengths of No 4 rope
have been purchased by Graham Wilton-Jones for use as lifelines. These will be added to the club tackle in the
next few weeks. Nylon rope is also being
obtained - details later. An article by
John Hunt on S.R.T. will be of interest to members and will be published in the
second Cave Notes to be published later on this year.
This edition (Caving Report No 19) will also include extensions to O.F.D. with
surveys by Bucket Tilbury and Graham Wilton-Jones; a surveying feature 'Leg
Length as a function of station to station accuracy in Centreline Surveying' by
Alfie; Rod's Pot - a new survey by Wig, and details of the Withyhill survey -
also Fairy Cave Quarry complete with a simplified survey.
Since the recent article on Deneholes, we have
received a letter from Roy Musgrove, of the Chelsea S.S. who writes as follows:
-
Yes, people actually read exchange copies of the
B.B. I was interested to see the article
in the July issue on the Hangman's Wood Deneholes. They have been threatened by a road
construction scheme.
However, I was disappointed to see no reference in
the bibliography to records of the Chelsea Speleological Society, Volume 4,
entitled simply 'Deneholes'. This was
written by Harry Pearman, founder member of C.S.S. who is a specialist in the
subterranean South East of England. It
describes 73 Denehole sites, discusses their origin, and has a bibliography of
77 items. It agrees that most were
probably dug for chalk.
I enclose some advertising 'blurb' covering all
our current publications on S.E. England, which you may like to make available
to B.E.C. members, especially the D authors of the article. How about getting 'Wig' to buy copies for the
library?
We'll do better than that,
CHELSEA SPELAEOLCGIGAL SOCIETY RECORDS
Volume IV.
Volume V.
Volume VI.
|
'DENEHOLES'
'MORE SECRET
TUNNELS IN
'CAVES AND
TUNNELS IN
|
by Harry
Pearman. Published 1965, reprinted
1970. 72pages 26 illustrations.
by John
Henderson, Brian Hillman and Harry Pearman. Published 1968. 84 pages with 33 illustrations.
by Harry
Pearman. 106 pages.
|
All three volumes are duplicated, quarto. Volumes IV and V 50p each, while Volume VI is
75p. Volumes IV and V describe sites of
speleological interest South East England. Some sites are natural, being formed by sea or river action. There are also many disused mines in the
area, some many miles in length.
Deneholes are curious excavations which abound in
Each volume gives plans and locations of each
underground place, relates what is known of its history and explains the
position about obtaining access at the time of going to print. They are unique documents of interest to the
geographer, explorer, antiquarian and archaeologist. Since many of these sites will disappear or
be deliberately closed or obliterated, they will also perform a useful function
by recording what exists for future researchers or land developers.
Among the places described in Volume VI are the
remains of a trial bore for the channel tunnel, which lies hidden in the sea
cliffs near Folkestone; the massive underground folly at Eastry, the lengthy
subterranean conduit system for Greenwich Palace; the chalk mine which
collapsed and destroyed part of Plumstead; the underground forts at Dover the
natural caves 100 feet beneath Blackheath and the alleged smugglers' caves at
Pegwell Bay.
Enquiries and orders to: Chelsea Speleological
Society, c/o 385,
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Across:
1. Cave feature found
in claps Ill argue about. (6)
5. One of a triple in Swildons? (3)
6. Features of a master cave? (6)
7. Flowerpot, presumably, has no need for this feature. (3)
9. See 13 across for example. (1,1)
11. Backward cry for Mendip swallet. (3)
12. Thus we have it. (2)
13. 9 across Cerberus? (3)
15. 7,037 lbs approximately for climbing aids. (6)
16. 2 down was interested in this. (3)
17. Changes of this nature have occurred in G.B. (6)
Down
1. Forced a passage
pr perhaps shed up. (6)
2. A lead this was associated with Mendip once. (4)
3. Tore again this deposited material. (9)
4. Mythical underground region forming inclinations of fault planes? (5)
8. Strode otherwise for a caving clubs region. (6).
10. Mixed oversize rug found in some caves. (5)
14. Exclamation and French for caves! (4)
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The Belfry,
Chairman S.J. Collins
Minutes Sec G.
Members M. Bishop, D.J. Irwin, B. Wilton, G.
Oaten,
Honorary Secretary A.R
THOMAS, Allens House,
Honorary Treasurer B.
Caving Secretary A. NICHOLLS, Address to follow.
Climbing Secretary G. OATEN,
Address to follow.
Hut Warden N.
TAYLOR, Whiddons, Chilcote,
Belfry Engineer M. BISHOP, Bishops Cottage, The Batch, Priddy, Wells, Som. Tele : PRIDDY 370
Tacklemaster G.
WILTON-JONES, 17 Monkhams Drive, Watton, Thetford,
B.B. Editor S.J.
COLLINS, Lavender Cottage, Bishops Sutton, Nr. Bristol. Tel : CHEW MAGNA 2915
Honorary Librarian D.J
IRWIN, Townsend Cottage, Townsend, Priddy, Wells Som. Tel : PRIDDY 369
Publications Editor D.J
IRWIN As above
B.B. Postal Brenda.
QUODCUMQUE FACIENDUM : NIMIS FACIEMUS
November is, of course, the time when the annual
list of paid-up members is issued. In
spite of fears to the contrary, the current list in this B.B. shows a total of
206 members - a gain of 2 on last year. While this is nothing to get wildly excited about, it is at least not
the loss in membership that was predicted earlier on this year.
There is a danger when looking at membership
figures of trying to read too much into them. However, on the principle that fools rush in where angels fear to tread,
your editor will - perhaps foolishly - draw a few conclusions which may give
the new membership secretary (when he or she has been appointed!) some food for
thought.
There is no point, in my opinion, in having a vast
drive for new members for its own sake. All this is most likely to do is to produce an unwieldy club full of the
wrong sort of people. On the other hand,
the legacy we have with us as part of the price of getting the Belfry built is
a large number of life members (27% of our total membership) who pay no further
subscriptions - and a way to improve this ratio might not come amiss.
Incidentally, judging by the voting figures, the
life members do not show up very well since only 34% of them voted - against
56% of the ordinary members. This may,
in some cases, be due to the fact that some life members, although still
interested in the club, feel too out of touch to be able to vote. On the other hand, it may be that some life
members are no longer particularly interested.
If you look at the way in which club membership
has grown over the years, you will find that the intake of new members has
remained almost constant every year, at average of 27 per year since the end of
the last war. This year, with 24 new
members, is quite typical - and there have been very few years which have not
been.
The variation lies in the pattern of those who
leave. About half of these in a normal
year are made up of people who have recently joined and - presumably - have not
found caving, or climbing, or the B.E.C., to their liking. Again this year is no exception - and there
is little we can do about it. The other
half is made up of members of some years standing who, again presumably, find
that they are losing interest or contact with the present club. This is where I believe we could - and should
- make some effort.
Many people have said to me that we should try to
provide more for our older members. Perhaps gentler caving trips followed by social evenings from time to
time. It has even been suggested that we
hold an older members dinner. Other
suggestions I have heard are that we should try to get older members up in the
Belfry so that they could again get to know the present members of the club.
Looking at the present membership list, it is
pleasant to see once more names like Arthur Ball, Stan Gee, Norman Petty, Phil
Townsend and Mike Wheadon who, amongst others, have all re-joined this
year. With a bit of imagination and a
little work, we could turn this trickle into a flood.
I must repeat that the above represents my
personal view. Perhaps you do not
agree? Perhaps you do? In either case, why not write in with
suggestions; offers, condemnations etc - so that we can all give the new
membership secretary something to think about!
Alfie
Access to St. Cuthberts Swallet is controlled by
the B. E. C. and all parties visiting the cave MUST have a B.E.C. leader or a
guest leader from another club. A party
wanting a trip in the cave should write to the Caving Secretary c/o The Belfry,
1. The name of the visiting
Club.
2. The date and time of the
proposed trip.
3. The number in the party.
4. A stamped addressed envelope.
5. ONE MONTH'S NOTICE.
It is always possible, of course, for parties to
arrange trips independently with leaders they know, or to take a chance on a
leader being available when they visit the Belfry. The system of guest leaders allows clubs who
regularly visit the area to get their own leaders for St. Cuthberts. To become a guest leader, you need to have a
thorough knowledge of the cave (there are five specified routes which must be
known) and "a responsible attitude to caving and cave preservation."
All parties visiting the cave with B.E.C. leaders
are automatically covered by the B.E.C.'s insurance up to £100,000 - so all
guest leaders are required to have insurance up to the same amount which will
cover their party and indemnify the B.E.C. Potential guest leaders can get application forms from the Caving
Secretary, who will arrange trips to cover the specified routes. On all trips, the leader or guest leader has
the ultimate say, and will refuse to begin or continue a trip if he thinks the
party is inadequately equipped or incompetent.
These access conditions for St. Cuthberts have
been published at the request of the Caving Secretary, Andy Nichols - who would
like them made as widely known as possible, to avoid any misunderstanding from
visiting clubs.
Another account of the
Club's doings in the
As may be imagined, mush of our time was spent
while in the
Ruben did much to help us, and we felt that we
ought to repay the debt. He seemed quite
pleased to have half a dozen tame English cavers available. The first idea to come to his mischievous
mind was the de-rigging of the Annialarra. Before we said anything, we asked Dicky from Eldon what he thought of
Annialarra. "Well, it's like a
1,400 foot pitch with a few sparse ledges. Oh, yes! It's damp and about 5OC." Tactfully, we forgot about Annialarra and
asked Ruben what else we could do. He
mused for a while and then said we could go and see his employer, Max Cosyns,
who had a few jobs to do.
Max Cosyns has a vast range of interests, from
nuclear physics to latex making. He had
been maypoling in the Grotte des Statactites Deviees some years ago, and wanted
his pole back.
The G. des S.D. is situated in the Kakouetta
Gorge. Kakouetta is excellent with 600
foot cliffs on either side of a fair sized river and some fine speleological
features. The first mile or so of the
gorge has been equipped with - bridges and hand wires to improve access. The remainder of the gorge becomes wider, but
very heavy going and there is no safe exit at the top end - as four of us found
out when our pioneering spirits overwhelmed us. Another aspect which delighted us was the lack of
commercialisation. The gorge is owned by
the local people who levy a very reasonable 30p charge for the use of their
bridges.
One mile up the gorge is the Kakouetta cascade,
emerging from about 40 feet up on the left hand side, looking upstream. Little is known about the cave beyond this
resurgence, except that in the fifth sump the cave plunges downhill, and that
somewhere beyond here is a reservoir of huge proportions. A few feet further up the gorge is the G. des
S.D. There are two ways into the cave.
The first involves a 120 metre abseil (393 feet 6 inches as it used to be)
passing an entrance 60 metres (197') up the cliff. The second involves a short climb into a
large but fairly well hidden entrance. The first method would have been preferable, as it avoids the 30p
charge, and makes all the caving downhill. Unfortunately, we had only a 90 metre (295) rope and the prospect of
six or seven of us swinging on the end of it to stretch a further 30 metres out
of it did not appeal. Furthermore, we
did not trust Maxs ten year old memories of where in the cliff top jungle the
correct abseil point was. A third
problem was the possibility of playing Aunt Sally with ten ton boulders falling
in tourists mouths as they gaped in awe (this is really an excuse for
chickening out, but I've just thought it up). This left the alternative lower entrance. Max said that it should be fairly easy, as
there were some old wooden ladders in place.
And so Sue Holmes; Graham Wilton-Jones; Mike
Palmer; John Dukes and I scrambled up the 3 metre (10') climb into the
entrance. Despite the grandiose
proportions of the entrance, the only way into the rest of the cave is through
a letter box ten feet off the ground. Fortunately there was a nearby sapling and we used this to stuff the
ladder through the entrance. Mike
climbed the ladder and made it safe for the rest of us. Inside the windy entrance, the cave opens out
into a frost-shattered zone, which gently rises into a 12' D section
stal-lined tunnel. This rises steadily
via a short climb to a windy constriction, after which the cave resumes its old
proportions. Here we met the first of
the fixed ladders. They must have been
frail when built in 1955, but with an eighth of an inch of stal cement all over
them, they were just comical. Kicking
them aside, we rigged electron ladders in their place. After another joke ladder, we climbed a few
more feet into the final chamber, where a 12 metre (39) climb awaited us. This was the main obstacle between us and
Max's maypole. A 12 metre nylon bootlace
hung tantalising from the void, but was not available for tackle hauling. The remains of a tree lay rotting on the
floor, after a previous party's climbing attempts. This improvised maypole later broke under its
own weight.
Unfortunately, we had no bolts or nuts for
artificial climbing. We had left this
gear behind; thinking that we would do only sporting trips. Ruben helped us borrow a few Simond pegs and
we had to make do with these. Mike and I
ferreted around for a safe belay point to drive a peg in. This proved fairly difficult, as most of the
cave was stal'd over, and smooth. Eventually we managed to find a safe anchor and set about the
climb. An interesting experiment was the
use of a well-known clog figure of eight the belay the ladder. John and I had practised the idea up trees
and found it successful. Underground it
was reasonable, but we were using 12mm 3-strand rope, and this tends to drag
excessively.
After belaying the second, Mike set out up the
climb, making reasonable progress as far as a ledge, and getting several
runners in. By this time, Sue had
produced cups of piping hot tea, and this enticed Mike back down. Next, John took over, and managed to get a
few metres above the point that Mike had reached, over a slight overhang. Progress was necessarily slow, so we had to
leave at this point in order to get out of the Gorge in daylight.
Next day, bright and early, John, Graham and I
returned to the cafe at the head of the gorge. The weather was steaming hot, so we lingered in the cafe as long as we
dared. After we had exhausted all the
excuses for staying there, we staggered off up the gorge at mid day. This time, we were much better equipped -
sandwiches; soup; chocolate and sweets augmented our diet of tea.
I climbed into the letter box and wandered off
into the cave. Whilst I was playing with
my stinky, Graham and John had decided that the sapling which we had used to
stuff the ladder into the letter box might be a healthy addition to our
collection of gear, so I lurched off into the cave covered in food parcels and
primuses, while the others dragged their trophy into the cave. Back at the scene of the crime, we decided
that the previous line of approach led to a nasty blank section of wall, and
that it would be better to alter the line of attack. John removed all the runners from the
previous climb, and we turned our attention to a greasy stal slope
instead. John made good progress to a
point halfway up the climb, protecting himself well with pegs. From this point, the climb became steeper and
the holds fewer. John returned to ground
level and we passed a good time chatting. I then re-climbed and started to place a peg at a point where we could
use caving ladders as etriers. I started
tapping the peg into its hole. The peg
did not produce the correct noises, but none of them had so far. I put this down to the rock being different
from normal outdoor specimens. The peg
went in a good way, and I was just giving it the finishing taps when it broke
in two. This was not too funny at the
time, because we had been hanging on these pegs - and hanging on to them for
some considerable time. Obviously, we
had to review the situation, and after looking at the way ahead, and the lack
of protection, we decided to abandon the attempt.
In order to clear up quickly, John lowered me down
the climb and I knocked out the runners as I passed them. We had to leave a runner at the top of the
climb, but this was preferable to climbing down. The peg on which I had rested while placing
the ill-fated one had split and came out looking like Britannias trident!
So we had to give up, purely for lack of safety
equipment. This was a shame, after Mike
and John had tried so hard. Next time,
well take an armoury of gear. One small
compensation was being allowed into the gorge free of charge. The local community regards its limestone and
caves as an asset. Perhaps a few people
over here should take note!
Editor's Note: The above article came complete
with a message from the typist - Graham Wilton-Jones.
Just in case it sounds as though I went along
simply to make up the numbers; carry tackle; drink beer at the cafe and cast
aspersions at the climbing abilities of my fellows, that's right! Yes, to all four reasons! I also have a complete photographic record of
the climb which will go with photographs to be taken next year during the
successful completion of the climb. And,
while on the subject of next year.
John and I are already making plans for a return
visit to the
And don't anybody DARE say they didn't know early
enough!
Anyone else who might be planning a trip - either
in this country or abroad and who would be prepared for others to join in,
should send in details to the B.B., so that the trip can be publicised and
members given plenty of notice to join in.
828
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Nicolette Abell
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Ardtraskart,
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741
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J.M. Bacon
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20 L
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Bob Bagshaw
|
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392 L
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Mike Baker
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22 Riverside Walk, Midsomer Norton,
|
295
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Arthur Ball
|
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617
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R. Bater
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4 Butterfield Close, westbury-on-Trym,
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618
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Mrs Bater
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4 Butterfield Close, westbury-on-Trym,
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818
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Chris Batstone
|
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390 L
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Joan Bennett
|
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214 L
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Roy Bennett
|
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731
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Bob Bidmead
|
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720
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Martin Bishop
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Bishops Cottage, Priddy
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734
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E. Bishop
|
Bishops Cottage, Priddy
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145
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Sybil Bowden-Lyle
|
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364 L
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P. Blogg
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336 L
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Alan Bonner
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Crags Farm Close, Little Broughton, Cokermouth,
|
751 L
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T.A. Brookes
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707
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R. Brown
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26
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732
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Mrs Brown
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26
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687
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Viv Brown
|
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819
|
G. Buckham
|
|
756
|
Tessa Burt
|
|
777
|
Ian Calder
|
Plas Pencelli, Pencelli, Brecon
|
778
|
Penelope Calder
|
Plas Pencelli, Pencelli, Brecon
|
679
|
R. Chandler
|
6 Blackcap close,
|
655
|
Colin Clark
|
|
211 L
|
Clare Coase
|
5
|
780
|
J. Coleman
|
Little Green, Bunwell,
|
89 L
|
Alfie Collins
|
Lavendar Cottage, Bishop Sutton, Nr Bristol,
|
821
|
J. Cooke
|
|
377 L
|
D. Cooke-Yarborough
|
Lot
|
585
|
Tony Corrigan
|
48a
|
827
|
Mike Cowlishaw
|
Hilston,
|
680
|
Bob Cross
|
|
609
|
I.M. Daniels
|
Handsworth, Pilgrims way, Chilham,
|
405 L
|
Frank Darbon
|
|
423 L
|
Len Dawes
|
The Lodge,
|
449
|
Garth Dell
|
8 Portway, Old Sarum,
|
815
|
J. Dibben
|
|
710
|
Colin Dooley
|
|
829
|
Angela Dooley
|
|
164 L
|
Ken Dobbs
|
|
830
|
John Dukes
|
|
812
|
S. Durston
|
7 Estuary Park, Combwich, Bridgwater,
|
779
|
Jim Durston
|
7 Estuary Park, Combwich, Bridgwater,
|
771
|
P. Eckford
|
80
|
322 L
|
Bryan Ellis
|
|
232
|
C. Falshaw
|
|
831
|
R.J. Fisher
|
|
269 L
|
Tom Fletcher
|
|
783
|
D. Foxwell
|
|
404 L
|
Albert Francis
|
|
569
|
Joyce Franklin
|
|
469
|
Pete Franklin
|
|
468
|
Keith Franklin
|
|
765
|
R.T. Gage
|
|
759
|
C. Gage
|
|
835
|
Leonard Gee
|
15
|
265
|
Stan Gee
|
|
836
|
Bob Givens
|
Newstead Lodge, 1 Fields Green,
|
459
|
Keith Gladman
|
|
752
|
E.M. Glanville
|
Jocelyn House Mews, Chard, Somerset
|
790
|
Martin Grass
|
|
582
|
Chris Hall
|
|
432 L
|
Nigel Hallet
|
|
735
|
P. Hamm
|
Address unknown
|
104 L
|
Mervyn Hannam
|
|
304 L
|
C.W. Harris
|
The Diocesan Registry, Wells,
|
581
|
Chris Harvey
|
Byways,
|
4 L
|
Dan Hassell
|
Hill House, Moorlynch, Bridgwater,
|
773
|
Rodney Hobbs
|
Rose Cottage, West End, Nailsea,
|
373
|
Sid Hobbs
|
Hokerstone Cottage, Townsend, Priddy, Wells,
|
736
|
Sylvia Hobbs
|
Hokerstone Cottage, Townsend, Priddy, Wells,
|
743
|
J.G. Hodgson
|
|
744
|
Mrs Hodgson
|
|
793
|
Mike Hogg
|
32 Birchley Heath,
|
834
|
Miss S. Holmes
|
32 Birchley Heath,
|
833
|
J.H. Hookings
|
|
387 L
|
George Honey
|
Droppsta, 19044,
|
770
|
C. Howell
|
|
631
|
P. Hudson
|
22
|
808
|
J.A. Hunt
|
|
97
|
J. Ifold
|
5
|
150
|
P. Ifold
|
The Cedars, Blackford, Nr. Wedmore, Cheddar
|
363
|
Maurise Iles
|
Waterworks Cottage, Gurmney Slade,
|
540 L
|
Dave Irwin
|
Townsend Cottage, Townsend, Priddy,
|
753
|
N. Jago
|
|
792
|
Ken James
|
|
814
|
M. Jarrett
|
12 Edgecombe Hill, Hall Green,
|
51 L
|
A Johnson
|
Warren Cottage,
|
560 L
|
Frank Jones
|
8
|
438
|
Mrs. P. Jones
|
|
285
|
U. Jones
|
Marsh Farm, Askem in Furness, Lancs.
|
567 L
|
Alan Kennett
|
92 West Broadway, Henleaze,
|
316 L
|
Kangy King
|
22 Parkfield Rank, Pucklechurch,
|
542 L
|
Phil Kingston
|
Address unknown
|
413 L
|
R. Kitchen
|
Overcombe, Horrabridge, Yelverton,
|
762
|
J.M. Knops
|
5 Kingsfield, Kingsway,
|
811
|
D. Knowles
|
|
667 L
|
Tim Large
|
4
|
795
|
Peter Leigh
|
|
656
|
P. Littlewood
|
|
657
|
Mrs Littlewood
|
|
846
|
I.
|
9 Leystone, Close, Frome,
|
574 L
|
Oliver Lloyd
|
Withey House, Withey Close West, Westbury-on-Trym,
|
58
|
George Lucy
|
Pike Croft, Long Lane, Tilehurst,
|
495 L
|
Val Luckwill
|
|
838
|
D. McFarlane
|
24
|
550 L
|
R A MacGregor
|
12 Douro Close, Baughurst,
|
591
|
J. Manchip
|
c/o/ Eticon Ltd.,
|
845
|
A. Marchant
|
Manor Farm Cottage, Chilcote, Wells
|
788
|
I.K. Marshall
|
|
662
|
I.
|
7 Fairacre Close, Lockleaze,
|
106 L
|
E.J. Mason
|
|
558 L
|
Tony Meaden
|
Highcroft, Westbury, Bradford Abbas, Sherborne, Dorset
|
704
|
D. Metcalf
|
|
308
|
K. Murray
|
17
|
794
|
A. Nichols
|
|
842
|
M. ONiell
|
21 Wickford, Drive, Harrow Hill, Romford,
|
624
|
J. Orr
|
Flat 2, Dorset House,
|
798
|
P.A. Palfree
|
10 Maynard, Clutton, Nr. Bristol
|
557
|
D. Palmer
|
|
396 L
|
Mike Palmer
|
|
722
|
J. Pearce
|
|
637
|
A. Pearce
|
|
22 L
|
Les Peters
|
|
160
|
Norman Petty
|
|
499 L
|
Tony Philpott
|
|
724
|
Graham Phippen
|
Rock Cottage,
|
820
|
P. Preece
|
c/o Dept. of Chemical Engineering,
|
337
|
Brian Prewer
|
East View, West Horrington, Wells,
|
622
|
Colin Priddle
|
10 Franklyn Flats,
|
481 L
|
John Ransom
|
|
452 L
|
Pam Rees
|
c/o The Belfry
|
343 L
|
A Rich
|
|
672 L
|
R Richards
|
|
844
|
J. Rigler
|
|
682
|
J. Riley
|
|
712
|
Mrs Riley
|
|
787
|
I.P. Rogers
|
56 Charlton lane, Brentry,
|
816
|
P.G. Rodgers
|
56 Charlton lane, Brentry,
|
832
|
Roger Sabido
|
1 Yeaomans Close, Stoke Bishop,
|
784
|
C. Sage
|
|
240 L
|
Alan Sandall
|
|
359 L
|
Carol Sandall
|
|
747
|
D.R. Sanderson
|
23
|
237 L
|
B. Scott
|
Merrymead,
|
577
|
Dave Searle
|
Dolphin Cottage, The Beeches, Priddy, Wells,
|
578
|
Kathy Searle
|
Dolphin Cottage, The Beeches, Priddy, Wells,
|
482
|
Gordon Selby
|
|
78 L
|
R.A. Setterington
|
|
213 L
|
R. Setterington
|
|
839
|
A.O. Sharp
|
|
789
|
N.K. Shaw
|
|
764
|
M.B. Slade
|
|
473
|
Dave Smith
|
|
823
|
Andy Sparrow
|
6 Downsway,
|
276
|
J.M. Stafford
|
Back Plaidy, King Edward, Nr Turriff,
|
1 L
|
Harry Stanbury
|
|
38L
|
Mrs I Stanbury
|
74 Redcatch, Knowle,
|
840
|
G. Standring
|
|
575 L
|
D. Statham
|
The Bungallow, North Barrow, Yeovil,
|
365 L
|
Roger Stenner
|
|
381 L
|
Daphne Stenner
|
|
837
|
Richard Stevenson
|
|
650
|
D. Stuckey
|
147 Blaisdon, Yate,
|
572
|
P. Sutton
|
75 Bredon, Yate,
|
826
|
J.G. Talbot
|
|
583
|
Derek Targett
|
16 Phillis Hill, Midsomer Norton
|
800
|
M.D. Taylor
|
|
772
|
Nigel Taylor
|
Whiddon Farm, Chilcote, Nr. Wells,
|
284 L
|
Allan Thomas
|
Allens House,
|
348 L
|
D Thomas
|
Mantons,
|
571 L
|
N Thomas
|
Holly Lodge,
|
711
|
M. Thomas
|
|
699
|
Buckett Tilbury
|
|
700
|
Anne Tilbury
|
|
692
|
Roger Toms
|
|
803
|
R.S. Toms
|
|
80
|
J.M. Postle Tompsett
|
|
74 L
|
M.J. Dizzie Tompsett
|
|
544
|
Phil Townsend
|
20 Lime Close, Prestbury.
|
157 L
|
Jill Tuck
|
48 Wiston Path,
|
328
|
Steve Tuck
|
3 Colles Close, Wells, Somerset
|
768
|
Tony Tucker
|
|
769
|
Sue Tucker
|
|
678
|
Dave Turner
|
Moonrakers,
|
912
|
John Turner
|
Orchard Cottage, 92 Church lane, Backwell,
|
646
|
P. Turner
|
|
843
|
M.F. Turley
|
13 Cresham Walk, Tilgate,
|
635 L
|
S. Tuttlebury
|
|
775
|
J. Upsall
|
|
776
|
Mrs Upsall
|
|
175 L
|
Mrs D. Waddon
|
32 Laxton Close,
|
592
|
Eddie Welch
|
|
397
|
Mike Wheadon
|
91 The Oval,
|
817
|
C.D. Wheeler
|
|
553
|
Bob White
|
Mineries Cottage, Priddy, Wells,
|
559
|
Barry Wilton
|
|
568
|
Brenda Wilton
|
|
721
|
Graham Wilton-Jones
|
17 Monkhams Drive, Watton, Thetford
|
813
|
Ian Wilton-Jones
|
17 Monkhams Drive, Watton, Thetford
|
594
|
P. Wilkins
|
55
|
549
|
Alan Williams
|
Hendrew Farm, Llanderaied,
|
841
|
C.K. Williams
|
Whitestown Farm, Cheddar Cross Roads,
|
738
|
R.F. Wing
|
|
The above addresses are those on the card index
from which the B.B. is sent out. If any
member notices any discrepancy in the address shown with his real address, he
is advised to get in touch with the Hon. Sec. (later, the Membership Sec. when
appointed) so that there is no chance of his B.B. or other club papers, going
astray.
The Committee are looking for a member to act as a
Membership Secretary. This has
previously been mentioned in the B.B. and the committee are anxious to fill
this post before the 31st January, when subs for 1975 are due. Anybody interested should write to the Hon.
Sec. or get in touch with any committee member.
Bob Cross is looking for business partner (female
and single) to help him run a campsite and shop in Wasdale in the lakes during
the spring and summer of 1975. Accommodation will be in a caravan, and profits will be split
50/50. Bob says there will be ample time
for walking, climbing and boozing. Any
girl interested in this opportunity should contact Bob for further
details. His address is: Bob Cross,
Members are reminded to fill in the caving log
after each trip, and to sign tackle in an out properly AND to put tackle away
in a clean and tidy condition after use.
A Monthly Miscellany
Compiled by 'Wig'
133.
134. WESLEY RIFT. At the rear of Wesley Cottage, a
J.C.B. opened up the top of a narrow, though caveable, rift. On Sunday, 10th November 1974 Martin Bishop
and Dave Irwin dug away the boulders blocking the entrance. Though unable to enter due to a large boulder
still blocking access, they were able to view down a ten foot deep rift with a
way on to the West. The next day, Martin
Bishop and Ray Mansfield continued to dig with Ian Cavender (Martin Cavender's
brother.) The cave (rift?) is situated
in dolomitic conglomerate overlying the coal measures and according to Willie
Stanton the shales are causing the conglomerate to fracture - a similar
situation to Sally's Rift near Bathhampton.
135. NEWS FROM
136. AND NEWS FROM
137. SUB-COMMMITTEE FORMED. At the request of the A.G.M., a
sub-committee comprising Martin Cavender, Bob White, Andy Nichols, Alfie and
the Wig will look into the problems of insurance with particular reference to
the caving and climbing trips which are not advertised within the club. This committee will report its finding about
mid 1975.
138. ADDITIONS TO THE LIBRARY. There has been little space
lately for this feature, but the following will give some idea of what has been
recently received by the club:-
Various O.S. maps.
Rock Face by Ron James
(BBC publication) Bristol Regional Geology (H.M.S.O.)
Gloucester S.S.
newsletters, Mar ,Apr, May, Sept 1974.
W.S.G. Bulletin Vol 8
No 2.
R.R.C.P.C. Newsletter
Volume 11 number 3
Speleologica Emiliana -
Notiziario Series 2,No 3
Die Hohle Vol 25 nos 1
and 2.
Cotham S.S, Memoirs Vol
4 1968/9
M.C.G. Journal No 5
1974
M.C.G. Newsletter
number 108
Caving Supplies -
latest price list. History of G.G. and
Cerberus Spelaeo. Soc.
Newsletter No 37
C.R.G. transactions Vol
15 No 4 and index 1972-73.
B.R.C.A. Bulletin No 5
and Trans. Vol 1 No 3.
Daily Telegraph
Magazine - Changabang.
Various CLIMBERS and
RAMBLERS.
Current Titles in
Spelaeology 1973.International Pt 2
St. Cuthberts Lead
Works-Bought Out Ledger 1907/8.
Various U.I.S.
Bulletins.
W.C.C. Journal No 154.
Our thanks to Phil
Kingston, Chris Howell and Pete Palfrey for donations of maps, publications
etc.
DECEMBER 14th Dan-yr-Ogof.
DECEMBER 15th Pant Mawr.
JANUARY 17/19 Climbing
in
JANUARY 18th Juniper.
JANUARY 19th Heron
and Yordas.
JANUARY 24/26 Joint
meet at Derbyshire. (Climbing)
FEBRUARY 22/23 Climbing in
FEBRUARY 22nd Grants-Oxlow.
FEBRUARY 23rd P8 and
MARCH 28th Sleets
Gill.
MARCH 29th Pippikin.
MARCH 30th Lancaster-Easegill.
Additional Notes - Climbing.
There will also be a climbing trip arranged for
the Christmas Weekend. Throughout the
winter months, trips will be arranged at short notice in addition to those above
- depending on the availability of snow. Notice of these will be given at the 'Seven Stars' and the Hunters by
word of mouth. Notices will also be
displayed at the Belfry.
Additional Notes - Caving.
On trips, particularly to
Across:
1. Consumed in oblate
spheroid. (3)
3. Slide another way to slip in a cave. (5)
7. This lime used once in cave diving. (4)
8. Suffering from exposure? (4)
10. Found at the Belfry or at the barbecue or in tables. (3)
11. Form of soft stal. (4)
12. Healthy resurgence? (4)
13. Local form of assistance found in farm roads. (1,1,1)
14. Half found in loose mineshaft. (4)
16. Mineral sort of rose. (4)
18. Cavers kept this in goon suits. (5)
Down
2. Am appropriate part
of a cave for this clue. (3)
4. This cave will glow on. (8)
5. Insane arrangement of water contrail. (3)
6. I manacle for one of 16 across on Mendip. (8)
7. Places, perhaps. (3).
9. An appropriate number of these are found in this part of Swildons. (5)
15. Aural receiver use in cave communication? (3)
17. Another receiver the caver finds useful. (3)
The Belfry,
Chairman S.J. Collins
Minutes Sec G.
Members Colin Dooley, John Dukes, Chris Howell, Dave Irwin, Tim Large, Andy Nicholls, Gerry Oaten, Barry Wilton
Honorary Secretary D.J
IRWIN
Honorary Treasurer B.
WILTON
Caving Secretary A.
NICHOLLS
Assistant Caving Secretary T.
LARGE
Climbing Secretary G.
OATEN
Tacklemaster G.
WILTON-JONES.
Hut Warden C.
DOOLEY
Belfry Engineer J.
DUKES
B.B. Editor S.J.
COLLINS
Publications Editor C.
HOWELL
B.B. Postal BRENDA
Honorary Librarian D.
IRWIN
Spares T.
LARGE
(Address are omitted in this issue, as all members addresses are shown on pages 113 to 116)