Descent 287 is coming soon, with huge holes, new caves and more …

Summer appears to have finally arrived, so instead of getting even hotter by pulling on grubby caving kit, why not relax in the sunshine with a cold beer – or your chilled tipple of choice – and catch up on all the latest at home and abroad with the latest issue of Descent.

Josu Granja returns with his superb photography and some massive – and we really mean massive! – caves in northern Spain.

Caving under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act (CRoW) as a right has been the thrust of a BCA campaign which, with a judge’s decision, has now – to the disappointment of many cavers – reached the end of the road. But there is good news elsewhere, as yet another dig has given up its secrets, revealing a major, decorated cave in the depths of the Yorkshire Dales. Part one of a two-part article looks deep inside the ironically named F’ing Hopeless Pot.

Mining enthusiasts from all over the country gathered for another successful NAMHO conference with stimulating talks and evocative memories of childhood days. Peter Burgess has provided a write up of the weekend’s activities. And in good news for everyone who fancies a sporting trip to one of the region’s mines, the facilities at Nenthead are again open for visitors.

A collection of glass plate negatives, including images of northern caves, has been crowdfunded and purchased by the museum in Settle. Learn more about the fascinating Horner Collection. Five new, high-quality films made by cavers that will appeal to the general public and cavers alike are coming to your television screen soon, so there’s plenty to look forward to this summer.

There’s still time to send in your entries before the Descent caption competition closes, for the chance to win a superb Petzl headlight.

In the Write it Down! slot, you can join Roy Holmes for his memories of exploration in Sunset Hole.

Remember that Descent magazine is run by cavers for cavers. Every issue is packed with caving news and features, accompanied by stunning photos. Don’t miss out, so to check whether your subscription is up to date or to take one out now, head over to Wild Places Publishing, who’ll be delighted to welcome you on board!