James Collings, John Cooper, Simon Richards (Nik-Nak), Adrian and Jude Vanderplank. John took in 2 x 6m Swildons ladders, a 10m and a 5m for the start of the winter digging season. The existing Hazel Pitch ladder was to be replaced but the new one is rather long (a Swildon’s length one) and the first part of Nut pitch too short (again a Swildon’s one) but easily free climbable at the bottom. The 10m and 5m together were too long for the Second part of Nut Pitch (could be a couple of meters shorter). Down to the bottom where Adrian filled the bucket, James hauled it and passed to John who then filled the trug which Jude hauled along to bottom of Four-Tonne Shaft. When Nik-Nak arrived James and John moved inwards for a spell until Jude left to sort out the top ladder (stainless maillons needs spanner to undo!). Didn’t count the buckets but gave up early when remaining haul bucket handle gave up. Brought out the 10m ladder. 1½ hours. John.
NikNak, James Collings, John Cooper, Jude & Myself. From the
entrance to the bottom there was a distinct smell of bang fumes. Quite a lot
cleared from the bottom. Still more to do. Adrian.