The situation in Thrupe Lane Swallet remains pretty much the same. In winter and during wet weather there is quite a large stream flowing down the entrance shaft making it impassable. But at present there is a small stream flowing down. It is probably passable but this will depend upon the stream flow and the weather conditions at the time and how wet you're prepared to get.
The ATLAS diggers are still currently digging Hobnail Hole each week during the day, usually Fri or Sat, but occasionally Thurs or Sun. The Thrupe stream can be diverted down Hobnail Hole, but we would first ask if you could let the ATLAS diggers know. There are a number of active ATLAS members spread across the Mendip clubs, so it shouldn't be difficult to contact one of us. If we know in advance we may be able to divert the stream for you before an intended trip. It only take 5-10 mins to divert the stream and again to divert it back after your trip.
Under no circumstances should the stream be diverted down Hobnail Hole if the Hobnail Hole gate is open. Hobnail Hole can easily be seen as you cross the stile in the dry stone wall between the layby and copse. It is a horizontal grill on the opposite bank of the stream, with the sole of a hobnail boot attached to the tree that over hangs the entrance
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The work we carried out to Cowsh Crawl in June last year has worked well. On a recent trip the duck had been reduced to a 150mm deep puddle, although its depth may fluctuate it should not now sump and is unlikely to reach a depth of 300mm even with a large stream flowing down the entrance shaft and on down
Perseverance Pot.
Maj.