Kendal Mountain Festival - Underground Session - Fri 21st November

[Pegasus]

Save the date folks

Here's the link to ticket sales: https://tickets.kendalmountainfestival.com/schedule/6863c75721112a8ad1f9382e/tickets

Hopefully see you there.....

 

[Pegasus]

Hi All, a reminder about KMF THIS FRIDAY.

It's cold outside...and dark...and has been raining far too much - so what better way to forget all that and make your way to the Underground Session at Kendal this Friday - meet your mates, have a beer and enjoy an evening hearing about:

2025 has been a huge year for exploration, both in the UK and internationally. The thrill of breaking through into black space beyond the reach of your head torch; kilometres of new passage; pristine decorations; the first time eyes have ever seen these sights... this is every caver's dream. Let us take you there as we reveal the latest UK discoveries, especially the staggering developments in the Forest of Dean area with Tim Nichols; hard-won Northern news from Frank Pearson, Mark Richardson and Mark Sims; and we share a profile of Matienzo developments with Carolina Smith. Plus, a very special tale from the Cornish tin mines!

THE LOST BOYS OF CARBIS BAY​

Short Film:
A daring band of unlikely explorers embarking on a quest to uncover the forgotten mines of Cornwall, only to unearth an unexpected journey of self-discovery. For this motley crew, the pursuit of the unknown serves as a cathartic release, allowing them to momentarily cast aside their worries and reset for the challenges of everyday life. Transcending mere adrenaline urges, the group becomes a vital means of connection and understanding, underscoring the importance of community in our lives.

Last year was awesome with some truly outstanding talks...this year is lining up to be equally as good with tales from a variety of caving regions - looking forward to seeing you there!

 

[Pegasus]

Here with our banners...

....and the first photo I saw on the screen in the lecture theatre was of caving, marvellous. Congrats to Peter Haworth!

 

[Pegasus]

'Extraordinary' was how Frank described Mark Richardson's tales of digging down Rowter....and I agree, one of my favourite talks of the night. Delivered in an understated, deadpan and really funny style. The Marks et al are quite mad

Frank did a fine job as Presenter, peppering poetry in as he went!

Carolina's talk on Matienzo highlighted there's always more cave to be found, even where cavers have looked before.

A short film on Meghalaya gave a fab taster of the fun folks are having in India.

The Carbis Bay Crew film was excellent - something really different and made you appreciate the friends and community all good hobbies provide - caving and mining included.

The evening was rounded off with tales of exploration in 'The Forest' - confidentally given by Tim Nicholls. Blimey, at times it was more like a talk on Mulu with the size and beauty of the passages, loved it.

....and of course, met up with lots of caving mates some I hadn't seen for ages, marvellous.

As ever a lovely way to spend an evening in Dark, cold November. Thanks to everyone who contributed to or came and supported the Underground session. See you next year

 

[Badlad]

Frank interviewing a couple of the Carbis Bay Crew after the premiere. A really different type of film. Great stuff guys

 

[Badlad]

Newsflash - 'The Lost Boys of Carbis Bay', a film premiered on Friday night, has won Best Exploration and Adventure film in the film comp.

Well done director Dan Simpkins and all who took part in the film.

 

[mikem]

A powerful Cornish story has just picked up a major award at the Kendal Mountain Festival

The Lost Boys of Carbis Bay follows a group of underground explorers who’ve found connection and purpose in Cornwall’s forgotten mines. It’s an emotional, honest look at community, adventure and men’s mental health right here in our county

We’ve put together the full story, including cinema dates across Cornwall this January. It’s well worth a read if you love Cornwall, filmmaking or a good human story

(Dates should be 2026)

Cornish Mining Documentary The Lost Boys of Carbis Bay Wins Top Award at Kendal Mountain Festival - CornishStuff

Cornwall’s forgotten mines and the men who step inside them have become the focus of a major award after The Lost Boys of Carbis Bay won Best Adventure and Exploration Film at the Kendal Mountain Festival 2025.

cornishstuff.com

 

[mikem]

Screening dates on link have now been updated to show 2026 (previously Jan 2025!)

 

[Badlad]

A few more pics. Mark and Rowter sump

 

[Badlad]

Carol and Matienzo

 

[Badlad]

The new Steph. Our Franlin presenting

Ps - photos from the event organisers

Look out for next year's festival. Always open to ideas for talks, films, content. Let me know.

 

[Tritim230]

Carol and Matienzo

View attachment 24477

Brilliant action shot!

 

[Badlad]

A final pic from me, actually taken by JJ. Great image of the CBC.