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Sunday, 24 August 2025

Diccan-Alum Exchange Trip

Today's trip was a classic: a Diccan-Alum exchange trip, with Bartek and myself going into Diccan, while Dino and Paulina went into Alum via the Dollytubs.

Shortly after entering Lower Longchurn, we reached the head of the first pitch. Even with low water levels this was spectacular, with a jet of water shooting over the edge and crashing down into the abyss below. A rather long lean out over the head of the pitch was necessary to rig, but before long we were dropping down the pitch passing rebelays and deviations. The remaining pitches continued on much the same theme, although a couple involved some interesting traverses that tested my nerve in places. After messing up the rigging on the last pitch (which Bartek corrected for me), we arrived at the bottom of Diccan, where Dino and Paulina were waiting.

From there, we began the climb up out of Alum. I’d really been looking forward to this, and on arriving at the Greasy Slab I was in no way disappointed. The view of Alum was spectacular, with golden light playing against the mossy walls and water dripping down into the depths we had just climbed out of. The view was even better at the Dollytubs, and I got to enjoy it a little longer than Mr B as I was de-rigging.

Having done so, a few minutes’ caving brought us back to the streamway in Lower Longchurn. Whilst waiting for Paulina and Dino, we had a quick look around Upper Longchurn. This too was a beautiful cave, with Dr Bannisters’ Handbasin being particularly magical. Once explorations were complete, all that remained was to meet up with Paulina and Dino and grab some liquid refreshment after changing. All in all, a great trip; it's obvious why it's regarded as a classic.

Cavers: Bartek, Paulina, Dino & Dave
Trip Report: Dave

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