went down nettle with the intention of doing the pull through section (the only bit i havent done). could i get the faffing rope to pull through the bolts!!? it was the first bit you come to (it may be the only bit! i didnt get any further!) after traversing out of suicide and through and over the boulders. i declined scrambling up solo cos there has to be a reason for the bolts!! isnt there? was it just me?

See my post under equipment/techincal - 'best knot for pull throughs'.

I ended up climbing up the first pitch - not too bad, and just as we were about to bag the second pitch the rope popped through. The system is appalling, I know there was talk about having a word with Ralph Johnson, who is the DCA representative, responsible for installing the pull throughs. (correct me if Im wrong anybody, apologies if so).

I think ralph has set them up so there are 2 completely separate systems. (which, I suppose, adhears to most all common advise about belays) However, the system doesnt function very well. There are commecially available systems. with wire and big rings. but these I think only rely on one point of contact (the ring). The one in eldon works fine. (this is a huge ring on a plate bolted directly to the wall.)

but the one in oxlow is the same as the one in nettle and we failed with that too :x .

so its not just you.

PS the passage beyond freeze squeeze and into derbyshire hall is beautiful and relativly well preserved - if you do get in there - please do your upmost to avoid damage to the floor and walls 8)

cheers SamT. now i know im not letting myself in for a whole world of pain i'll be back without lugging loads of unnecessary rope.