Andy Sparrow
Active member
In the course of my work I introduce many young people to caving. The question "have you been caving before?" is generally asked but many of the 'yes' responses now refer to artificial caves. While some of these systems are quite realistic pseudo-caves others are no more than pipes and drains - however, they all seem to be described as caves. The pipes and drains do not seem to leave a positive impression on the kids who often have not enjoyed this 'caving' experience. There was some trashy 'iron-man' TV show where the contestants had to do some 'caving' which was in reality just a dismal series of drains. A cave is a "natural cavity large enough for human entry" - artificial caves do not exist by this definition. Would it be possible, I wonder, to prosecute anyone promoting an artificial cave as 'caving' under the trade descriptions act? I think the damage done to the image and concept of caving in the minds of young people would justify this action by BCA.