Gut feeling is either algae or fungus type of life forms. Bacterial mats are a good contender. I guess this implies relatively high levels of nutrients such as nitrates and phosphates in the water. Extremophile forms like snottites are associated with metal sulphide decay in acidic conditions...

From the state of it I would guess it will need remedial work "soon" As such I would imagine an offer to recap would be gratefully received by all concerned. Even if it has to be sealed again I am sure an inspection descent would be advised?

Lots of climbing in rifts with spiders. Very steep access. Best approached from above. Used to be plastic sacks or carrier bags wrapped around the barbed wire where you leave the escarpment edge path. Not good for a wet day as it's a muddy slither!

Something like the "New Style" ladders found in mines? Pitch pine or elm sides with metal rungs bolted in when on site. NB oak will not last long at all.

The Bung ladder was made by Ade Pedley I believe. It is in two parts. The chains etc at Surprise View are SS, but the ladder itself is galvanized steel. It is a repurposed scaffolders ladder in one section and is very heavy! I recall the ladder up to the Blowhole being in angle bolted together...

Recently rewatched Sid Perou's film on the connection. Sure the commentary said something about the ladder to the Blowhole collapsing at the time of filming, and having been installed a dozen years previously (to the 1970?) filming date...

Your effort are already appreciated. Having drawn rigging topos for an SRT guide I have a little insight into your problems. Myself and others are hungry to see the results of your efforts. Thank you for the update

As it says above, are there any updates on a publication date for this much anticipated work? Last I recall it was being planned for a double issue of the Bulletin or some such? Thanks 😊

https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/news/local-news/42-acre-plot-countryside-quarry-8960160 Just seen this, looks like Masson Lees quarry and area is up for sale. A snip at £275000! Any one local got some change down the back of the sofa?

I would suggest Knotlow climbing shafts, with a crossover with the 210 for those feeling fit to climb out. A rebelay can be taken at the Meccano passage horizon, and also at the chain shaft entry. Options in Hillocks nearby give plenty of things to dangle and spin in, with both having a minimum...

Err, what is a numbner? Sounds bizarre... 😁😳

Vegans... Doesn't matter, they will keep telling you all the time...

Caver... Damp gear hanging up, a smell of caves, piles of rocks and minerals, drifts of silt in the corners, bits of rope waiting a wash, old worn out kit hung on the wall, photos of muddy holes, books surveys and maps.... Crafter... Bits of paper, half done projects, craft table covered in...

As it says in the title, Happy Birthday!

True but you need a retriever to do the lab work and write the lab reports...