After seeing Roo Walters' video, we had to have a look at Pate Hole and have been today. Sad to report that I didn't see your gear A-Northerner. Given the amount of water, your items have probably reached Carlisle by now.
We also had a wander up the valley to the East of Great Asby (Dale Beck). There's a huge resurgence, comparable to Pate Hole, a few hundred yard up the valley. Anyone ever taken a look at it?
Stangely given the deluge, the divers entrance to Preacher's Cave on the Fell End Clouds was dry.