The Old Ruminator
Well-known member
This is an ongoing issue at the moment. Cheddar Caves Management ( Longleat Estates ) have been reviewing the way their " assets " are used and controlled. They have also had an introductory tour of Reservoir Hole. They are currently asking for a long waiver form to be signed by all visitors to caves they own in Cheddar Gorge. As far as visitors are concerned this primarily affects Reservoir Hole.
The long form contains all of the usual waiver stuff but insists on other things. ie -
You are fit and experienced enough to do the trip.
You have adequate equipment for the trip.
You are over the age of 18.
More importantly you must have insurance. BCA is accepted but every visitor must be carrying the green card. So do not turn up without one as your warden is supposed to check. The Company will also be doing it's own monitoring.
Some local cavers have said they will not sign the form but there is little point in that when the company have the whip hand. They consider Reservoir Hole to be a Company asset and want full control of it. Personally I will think us lucky if we escape an exorbitant trip fee.
As I said ongoing at the moment but you had better bring your green card and expect to sign the form.
The long form contains all of the usual waiver stuff but insists on other things. ie -
You are fit and experienced enough to do the trip.
You have adequate equipment for the trip.
You are over the age of 18.
More importantly you must have insurance. BCA is accepted but every visitor must be carrying the green card. So do not turn up without one as your warden is supposed to check. The Company will also be doing it's own monitoring.
Some local cavers have said they will not sign the form but there is little point in that when the company have the whip hand. They consider Reservoir Hole to be a Company asset and want full control of it. Personally I will think us lucky if we escape an exorbitant trip fee.
As I said ongoing at the moment but you had better bring your green card and expect to sign the form.