Main Rising was pushed to depth of - 70m on the 27th September 2003 when Martin Groves descended the New Leviathan in crystal clear visibility, using tri-mix, to the previous limit at -66.5m (JNC 1996). From here he followed "Remembrance Way" to a depth of just beyond -70m at which point the line reel ran out. Forward, a wall could be seen ahead and it appears an elbow has been reached. This now confirms Main Rising as the deepest sump in the country and motivation is at a high and the team is already planning to return. This follows over six months of preparation and exploration diving in the sump where all the question marks were ticked and an airbell was also found. (A full report will follow in November).

DCRO have just launched a fund raising campaign for the purchase of a much needed replacement emergency response vehicle. The 42,000 vehicle will be used to transport equipment and provide a mobile control base for underground incidents throughout the team's operational area. DCRO is a registered charity and run entirely by volunteers. It provides police forces from 13 UK counties with search and rescue teams that are able to respond to a wide range of incidents in both man made and natural underground locations, e.g. mines, wells, culverts, caves and potholes. The current team vehicle is over 20 years old and has reached the end of its life. The new vehicle, to be converted by MMB Ltd of Macclesfield, Cheshire, will provide the team with a fast, modern and reliable means or reaching incidents, as well as a warm and dry base for managing its rescue operations from. DCRO is appealing to individuals, firms and organisations who may be able to help financially to get in touch. If you think you would like to make a donation to DCRO's appeal, please contact Keith Joule at Hitch n Hike, 01433 651013.