John (Nobby) Clarke B.S.A.

[langcliffe]

Six months later, I am still trying to knock John (Nobby) Clarke's slide collection in the BCRA Online Archive into shape. Some of the information I was hoping for has not been forthcoming.

What I currently need is a decent photograph of the gentleman, and tales of any notable caving exploits. I see from Derbyshire Caver 138 that he was involved in the opening up of Anniversary Chamber in Peak Cavern. He was very active during the 1950s and early 1960s with the BSA, so I should imagine he was involved in other work as well.

Can anybody help on either account?

[Pitlamp]

Langcliffe - if you haven't already followed up the possibility of Ed Mason having a photo of him, PM me and I'll ask on your behalf.

[Pitlamp]

P.S. I'm sure he features variously in BSA literature of that period, which would give a more comprehensive insight into his involvement(s). Articles by Les Salmon would be the best place to look.

By the way - and only mentioning in case you're labelling anything - by Anniversary Chamber, do you mean the section of cave beyond Moss Chamber? If so I think it's properly named "Anniversary Hall". This is maybe another reason to check original exploration accounts in BSA material.

[Pitlamp]

P.P.S. I think there may be material in the TSG library inherited from TSU, TPU and BSA North Midlands Group (to all of which the TSG traces it's lineage). Accessing the TSG library is problematic at present, for obvious reasons. But it may be possible to investigate indirectly; remind me if you do decide to PM me as above.

Actually - sending an email is probably better.

[langcliffe]

Pitlamp - if you could ask, I would be grateful.  Anniversary Hall - thanks.

[Pitlamp]

P.P.P.S. - yes, me again.  It's likely he would have been involved in the Neil Moss rescue effort in 1959. If that can be verified I think it's an important fact to include.

[Pitlamp]

OK, leave it with me . . . .

[langcliffe]

P.P.P.S. - yes, me again.  It's likely he would have been involved in the Neil Moss rescue effort in 1959. If that can be verified I think it's an important fact to include.

Yes - his son says that he was.

[Pitlamp]

Bingo!  Ed has come up with the goods. I've just sent you a proper email.