SamT said:
Can anyone put forward a strong case for KEEPING the string in place.
I went to the Great Oxbow Series with another SWCC member in December 2006, and we used the string to rig an SRT rope. And yes, I know that I have already made it clear that the bolt at the top is not a maintained fixed aid but the bloke I was with had been there more recently than I had, and I trusted that he knew what he was doing. My choice. In Ogof Ffynnon Ddu as in many other caves there are unofficial fixed aids that sometimes it is convenient or expedient to use as long one understands and appreciates the risks involved. SWCC could go round and remove everything unauthorised but we would probably incur the wrath of cavers who find some of these things useful or the diggers/explorers who have left particular projects rigged to suit their needs.
And before you shoot me down in flames I'm not saying that this makes 'a strong case' for retaining the string, I am merely pointing out that it does serve a purpose. As I have already made clear the skyhook will no longer be issued by D.O.s or anyone else at SWCC.