With an apparently large, open sump at the bottom, some 100 ft. above Keld Head level, it was surprising how long it was before this was actually dived. Steve Thorpe had a go not long after the pot was discovered, but despite a real effort, he could not get down the squeeze at the 40 ft. pitch. Another trip was arranged in June, but the weather was bad, and I dislocated my shoulder the week before. Time passed, people went caving abroad etc. and it was not until 28th August that another attempt was made. On this occasion, Glynn, Mike, Simon H., Julian Griffiths and I carried forty and fiteen cubic foot bottles, a large line reel, and associated gear down to the bottom.

Whilst I kitted up, the muddy water flowed gaily past us and by the time all was ready, all hopes of seeing anything evaporated! The low airspace section in front was blind, and the "roomy bedding" mentioned by Budge failed to materialise. After several minutes searching, the way on was at last found in the form of a steep chute, straight back under the passage leading to the sump pool. This was small, so the big bottle, fins and bits and pieces, were left behind, and I continued with the mini-bottle, base-fed by Glynn. About 20ft. of low passage, heading north-east was explored (by braille!) until an enlargement was felt. Airspace was reached in a chamber, out of depth in water, and the way on was straight ahead, 6 ft. down. After 10 ft. another small airbell was found, and just beyond, at about 40 ft. from base, the passage became blocked by the silt. A slow return was made in total blackout.

After relating the story, we set off out of the cave, which took quite a while, as we detackled it all as far as the second pitch. The trip out was enlivened when one pennine member decided to throw the mini bottle back down the 40 ft. entrance pitch at Mike and I. It landed 6 ft. from us - fortunately without exploding!

The following day, the rest of the gear was brought out of the cave, as most loose ends now seemed to be tied up, and I doubt if there is any need to take diving gear down again (fortunately!).

J.N. Cordingley