tony from suffolk said:
I wonder how many cavers would have retired if it wasn't for caving websites, or how many cavers who caved when they were younger but who gave it up as they acquired personal commitments but as a result of such websites keep in touch with the caving community and as a consequence come back into the sport?
Very few, I imagine. I know many cavers who continue caving regardless of the internet or websites. They are usually members of a club (though not all).
Besides, people have only been talking about a decline in caving
since the internet became available to all and sundry (that's the impression I get, anyway). So is the internet responsible for a decline in caving?
This forum (to use an example) has 878 registered members - I reckon the caving population is actually at least 5 times greater than that. Somebody from the BCA insurance department could possibly enlighten us re numbers of insured cavers, and probably a good dollop more of uninsured cavers are active too.
Undoubtedly some people use forums/internet to stay in touch. Others will maintain contact through clubs etc.