Caving Projects

Backwater Aven Discovery

During the summer of 2011, the Backwater Choke in Speedwell Mine recieved some more attention after a 19 years break. Armed with digging tools, the choke was soon passed into a large ascending passage to climb up into the base of a large aven, 6 m wide, 10 m long and approx 25 m high.1st Aven of Backwater Aven Extension. © Shaun Puckering

The aven was climbed for 30 m into a small passage, a further choke was passed into a large ascending passage to a blind dome. A 6 m climb reached a further choke which is currently being dug.
Picture by: Shaun_Puckering

For more information and the full story, see: Peak District Caving Website

Cavers visiting Speedwell Cavern should be aware that this is an active dig and are asked to avoid everything above the base of the first aven until the chokes have been properly stabilised and the pitches properly rigged.

Thanks - The Backwater Aven Project.

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Pioneers Beneath the Peak

 

THE CAVES BENEATH THE PEAK DISTRICT have intrigued humankind for thousands of years. As people explored further into the caves, they would often reach a point where the roof sloped down into a pool of water and they could go no further.

This book tells the story of those who would not be stopped by the water and who, by a combination of determination, resourcefulness, technical innovation and a good measure of courage, sought to dive through those pools, to enter the unknown passages and to discover what lay beyond. This is a tale of true adventure and exploration, told by one of those involved.

Read more: Pioneers Beneath the Peak

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