Bedford United

Date:

08 April 08

Party:

Big Dave, Patrick, Colin, & Stuart

Photos:

In Brief:

This trip got off to a late start with big Dave turning up late due to work commitments. Shortly we headed off up the bank towards the entrance. Once inside, Colin quickly rigged the traverse line across the first winz and soon all were across. Following a short climb and on through the level we arrived at a short pitch leading down to the top of the water wheel chamber, and the head of the 60ft winz down to the deep adit level. The pitch was jointly rigged by Colin & Big Dave, and all descended. Once down, we found ourselves in thigh deep water that slowly reseeded as we pushed our way along the adit level deeper into the hillside. At the end of the adit, there is a small ladder climb that leads to a passage into a stoped area with spectacular copper staining on the walls.

Continued:

At this point we paused for a brief break in an area known as the Hard Rock Cafe, until someone mentioned the time. With closing time in mind it was decided not to visit Marques shaft, but to head on out. Retracing our footsteps we managed to get out, change, and make our way to the pub in time for last orders.

Write up by Big Dave

Added 09-04-08