Chair of British caving says he believed the weather didn't apply to him

For those of you who've been wondering "who does he think he is?", well now we know.

by Ethel Bangrod

11/29/20251 min read

A recent rescue in the Upper Wharfedale area has sparked controversy after the trip leader declared that they did not believe the weather applied to them.

Dowbergill Passage, between Dow Cave and Providence Pot, was the site of the incident where three male cavers, one of which was the illustrious chair of the BCA, became trapped whilst attempting a through trip and missed their callout.

Reports suggest that their trip went at a slower pace than anticipated due to frequent breaks for cheese and wine. The inevitable bloating meant that they were unable to get through the connection and did hot have time to wait for the food to settle before Storm Amy arrived. The onset of very heavy rain and resulting flooding prolonged rescue efforts and caused a right kerfuffle.

The local cave rescue teams' spokesperson, known solely as Desmond made the following comments when approached by Dankness Below: "Although we appreciate cheese and wine breaks are an integral part of northern caving, a leader must consider whether the digestifs that follow each session are really necessary if the onset of stormy weather is due".

After being informed of the remarks made by the BCA leader, the spokesperson responded: "We must make it clear that the weather applies to all cavers, and being the Big Pumba of British Caving doesn't excuse you from that."

Dankness Below are pleased that the outcome was successful, and hope that the rescue team never have to use those words again.