Cover: Ogof Govan, South Wales. Photograph by Martyn Farr

A Sense of Wilderness

As conservationists we fight to preserve our dwindling wilderness areas, from the Arctic wilds to tropical forest and vibrant reefs. Everywhere travellers bemoan the way in which tourism is so destructive: 'see it now, before it's too late,' they cry, as they help destroy. What is so different about our caving heritage that we can choose to ignore the effects of our actions?

Just Itching to be Discovered

Jordan might not be everybody's first choice of caving destination; indeed, for Tony Howard it was the lure of climbing that led him to explore the country and, in doing so, he ended up finding caves that were just itching to be discovered.

Eldon's Explorers

A comparison of a descent of Eldon Hole using modern equipment and that of 100 years ago was begun in the last edition of your favourite magazine. The story now reaches its conclusion with the return to the surface and a second descent using a bosun's chair.

Hanging in the Peak

British cavers benefit from well-placed, permanent Eco-hangers in many of our popular caves, thanks to grants and money-raising schemes, and volunteers to place these anchors. The NCA trains cavers how to install these hangers properly: what are the criteria, and how did the latest training day go?

Gear Review

The CC Trek Light and Peli Products Heads Up Light are under caver's scrutiny.

Going Dutch

We seem to have a natural reluctance when it comes to caver training: do we leave it to the clubs, pay a professional to impart the necessary expertise, or just muddle along? Heaven forbid, what if controls were introduced that gave us an exam before we could take out club tackle? Fiction, or fact?

To Be Continued ...

Join Alan Jeffreys with his latest observations on life, the universe and caving.

The Descent Caption Competition

Inglesport has a new helmet on the market. Here's your chance to win one, if you can think up the funniest caption.

 

Descent