But I thought access to lots of caves depended on you being covered by third-party insurance? Isn't BCA membership the easiest way to get suitable insurance cover?

Another possibility would be a day with Yorkshire Dales Guides. That might actually work better for you, as they'll provide all the kit. There's "Ultimate Caving" (also on June 8) for £95, or ask them about arranging a bespoke day. More expensive, of course, but they might be able to suggest...

I can highly recommend the Try Caving Day in the Yorkshire Dales on June 8. It will be an excellent trip, and only £30! (You could get there by train from Wigan, changing at Leeds. Or maybe you'll be able to get a lift.)

That's not much use to the rest of the BCA membership, though, is it? :rolleyes:

Really? I thought it was particularly good 😕 (How long ago was this awful coffee?)

The Duon Air looks very suitable. Thanks, everyone!

Any recommendations for an XL helmet, please? Most only go up to 61-63cm, and whilst that will just about fit, there's no room for a buff. (No, it's not for me, I'm dainty :) )

"I have successfully used saliva to help remove grit from my eye" I believe urine is more sterile than saliva ;)

Interesting article in The Times today about graphite mining - but it’s hidden behind a paywall, so I’ll copy it for you: Storm that uncovered graphite and gave rise to term ‘black market’ March is no stranger to stormy weather, but a storm in the Lake District on this day 460 years ago - March...

Excellent write-up!

Aspirin, in case of a suspected heart attack

" . . . please don’t throw stones down there might be people below" From Wiki: In July 1936 Mabel Binks became the first caving fatality in the Yorkshire Dales when she was hit by a rock falling down the Main Shaft. Evidence from the inquest indicated that it had been thrown down deliberately.

"Hollywood star Tom Cruise appears to have been pictured in Derbyshire, fuelling excitement about another Mission: Impossible film. Cruise was apparently snapped driving a jeep in an apparent stunt scene at Middleton Mine on Monday. Film crews have set up at the location and told villagers it...

"This wouldnt of been needed if Petzl hadnt of cut corners, saved money and lowered quality in the first place. When the newer version of the avanti harnesses came out the webbing was thinner and shorter, saving money for Petzl while risking failures and ultimately peoles lives." I don't...

Dodgy internet signal in Antarctica? :ROFLMAO: