The duty controller was alerted by a colleague from Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Association, who had been caving with a group of friends. He informed us that a group of 4 cavers were overdue in the Lost John’s Cave system, possibly near Lyle Cavern. He advised that a group of competent cavers from the nearby Red Rose Cave and Pothole Club, equipped with food, drinks and other vital kit, had descended the system to try to find the missing party. Whilst he was confident they would be found quickly it was nevertheless thought wise to put the Team on stand-by.
After about 2 hours the underground search party had not returned to the surface, so it was decided to mobilise the Team to assist in the rescue. As the Team were en-route to the location on Leck Fell we were advised that one of the search party had reached the surface, and advised that the missing cavers had been found safe and well. They had simply lost their way in what is a complex section. They were being escorted back to the surface by the search party. The Team was stood down at 1.30am.
Volunteer hours: 30