Topic

Hi guys
Just thought it would be best to let you know about a situation in Shuttleworth Pot on Sun 10th Jan. I had a near miss with a boulder on the slope at the bottom of Divers Pitch. Its all a bit of blur because it happened so fast but from what I recall I was waiting at the top of the slope for my turn to ascend after a very pleasant trip. When Ruth was past the first rebelay I started to walk down the slope careful to avoid the large boulder which made us all nervous to look at. I dont know if I slipped first or if I heard the rumble first which caused me to slip but before I knew it I was sliding on my back down the side of the large boulder (to its right facing from above) with another boulder heading towards me. I only caught a glimpse because I was desperately trying to move out of its way but knew it was big enough to have at least caused some broken bones (or worse). The only option I had in the split second was to hold on to the big boulder for several seconds to let it pass me then I managed to stable myself by rolling back away from the big boulder fearing it would also come lose. After taking a few moments to steady my nerves I managed to make a slow exit out of the cave with the encouragement of some amazing people. I am pleased to say I dont its put me off caving but it has hit home how unstable the environment can be. Be careful in here guys especially if you head down the sump.
On the trip: Ruth. Jordan. Alex W. Alex R. Susan. Keith and Gary.

Glad you are Ok and that it hasn't put you off, Michele, it was a hairy moment. I will second that I didn't feel comfortable walking around in there and was relieved to either be on the rope or in the exercise yard. I think it is a good thing that people be made aware of this as the environment has changed a lot with the recent floods.

Glad you are OK Michele and that it hasn't put you off

Glad it hasn't put you off caving Michele . As I reported a few weeks ago after myself and Keith had been there that slope to the sump is an accident waiting to happen

Perhaps Alan could further my concerns to higher powers that would go and have a look at it and see if something can be done before someone gets hurt or worse

For info the CNCC bolters have sent around a message asking for one of us to go and have a look and see if some reanchoring might help.

my answer to that would be yes since the bottom of the pitch is now 1/3 of the way down the slope , give me a shout it help is needed

Have had a word with Alan tonight as I have a project in mind for it. Details to follow

cool put me down for it Keith

fionaw wrote:

For info the CNCC bolters have sent around a message asking for one of us to go and have a look and see if some reanchoring might help.

It appears I was logged in as Fiona! Anyway not sure what you have in mind, Keith, but quite happy to spend a day down there with a drill if needs be.

il come and help.

Susan and I happy to help, and I will bring "The Tea Van".

i would be well impressed if you could get the tea van to the entrance