Some new passage has been found leading off from Coral Aven in Far Sump Extension. A full report will follow soon.....

A couple more dives have been done in this new part of the Peak system since the last update of 26th March. The sump has now been surveyed and three small airbells have been located. A little more progress was made at the end and the limit of exploration is currently 45 metres from base (at 2 m depth). The passage is turning rightwards (updip) and appears to be rising but more digging is needed to pass a restriction.

Derbyshire County Council are closing Winnats Pass (Castleton) from the 24th of July to the 4th of August, for resurfacing.

Hillocks Entrance Chamber:-

Work has recently been carried out just inside the Entrance Chamber of Hillocks Mine on measures to deter visitors from straying beneath the unstable and potentially dangerous roof bedding slabs. A low dry stone wall has been constructed bordering the area and hopefully this will direct traffic to the far wall which is the more usual route taken by parties when visiting the short lower series beneath the Chamber. A temporary notice has been placed to explain the purpose of the wall.

Knotlow Climbing Shaft lid:-

Stretchering an injured caver though the small opening of the Knotlow Climbing Shaft has proved difficult, particularly with larger casualties. The square opening has been extended by about six inches to make a rectangular opening which should make rescues via this route much easier. The opportunity was also taken to point up the loose ginging around the shaft collar. Work on the lid has kindly been funded by the National Trust (owners of the land) and both projects were carried out by Coffin Dodgers Ralph Johnson, Steve Knox, and Dave Webb. Access is as before using a "Derbyshire Spanner".

PLEASE NOTE: One of the large fastening nuts from the nearby Engine Shaft has disappeared and efforts are being made to locate a replacement. In the meantime please be sure to fully tighten the remaining bolt.