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Coordinates: 54°12′25″N 2°30′23″W / 54.20699°N 2.506452°W / 54.20699; -2.506452
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{{Short description|Cave system in England}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2016}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2021}}
{{Use British English|date=April 2020}}
{{Use British English|date=April 2020}}
{{Infobox cave
{{Infobox cave
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| caption = Duke Street in Ireby Fell Cavern II
| caption = Duke Street in Ireby Fell Cavern II
| photo_width = 250| location = North-West [[England]]
| photo_width = 250| location = North-West [[England]]
| depth = {{convert|253|m|ft|0}}<ref name="nc">{{cite book|last1=Allshorn|first1=Sam|last2=Swire|first2=Paul|title=Northern Caves – The Three Counties System and the North-West|year=2017|publisher=High Mead|location=Leeds|isbn=9781527210950|page=7}}</ref>
| depth = {{convert|253|m|ft|0}}<ref name="nc" />
| length = about {{convert|86|km|mi|0}}<ref name="nc">{{cite book|last1=Allshorn|first1=Sam|last2=Swire|first2=Paul|title=Northern Caves - The Three Counties System and the North-West|year=2017|publisher=High Mead|location=Leeds|isbn=9781527210950|page=7}}</ref>
| length = about {{convert|90|km|mi|0}}<ref name=descent298>{{cite journal|last1=Pearson|first1=Frank|title=North by North End Pot|journal=Descent|date=June-July 2024|issue=298|page=17}}</ref>
| coords = {{coord|54.20699|N|2.506452|W|format=dms|display=inline,title}}
| coords = {{coord|54.20699|N|2.506452|W|format=dms|display=inline,title}}
| survey =
| survey =
| discovery =
| discovery =
| geology = Carboniferous limestone
| geology = Carboniferous limestone
| entrance_count = 53 <ref>{{cite web|last=Gardner|first=John|title=The Three Counties System – A List Of Entrances |url=http://www.braemoor.co.uk/caving/threecounties.shtml|access-date=20 July 2015}}</ref>
| entrance_count = 56 <ref>{{cite web|last=Gardner|first=John|title=The Three Counties System – A List Of Entrances |url=http://www.braemoor.co.uk/caving/threecounties.shtml|access-date=6 June 2024}}</ref>
| map = United Kingdom Yorkshire Dales
| map = United Kingdom Yorkshire Dales
| map_width = 250
| map_width = 250
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| access = Various<ref>{{cite web|title=Caving Access: Three Counties System & the North West|url=http://cncc.org.uk/caving_access_three_counties_system.html|publisher=Council of Northern Caving Clubs|access-date=16 December 2012}}</ref>}}
| access = Various<ref>{{cite web|title=Caving Access: Three Counties System & the North West|url=http://cncc.org.uk/caving_access_three_counties_system.html|publisher=Council of Northern Caving Clubs|access-date=16 December 2012}}</ref>}}


'''The Three Counties System''' is a set of inter-connected [[limestone]] [[solutional cave]] systems spanning the borders of [[Cumbria]], [[Lancashire]] and [[North Yorkshire]] in the north of [[England]]. The possibility of connecting a number of discrete cave systems in the area to create a single super-system that spans the county borders was first proposed by Dave Brook in 1968, and it was achieved in 2011. The system is currently over {{convert|86|km}} long, making it the longest in the UK and the thirtieth longest in the world, and there continues to be scope for considerably extending the system.<ref name=gulden>{{cite web|last=Gulden|first=Bob|title=World's Longest Caves |url=http://www.caverbob.com/wlong.htm|access-date=1 August 2021}}</ref>
'''The Three Counties System''' is a set of inter-connected [[limestone]] [[solutional cave]] systems spanning the borders of [[Cumbria]], [[Lancashire]] and [[North Yorkshire]] in the north of [[England]]. The possibility of connecting a number of discrete cave systems in the area to create a single super-system that spans the county borders was first proposed by Dave Brook in 1968, and it was achieved in 2011. The system is currently about {{convert|90|km}} long, making it the longest in the UK and the thirty-fourth longest in the world, and there continues to be scope for considerably extending the system.<ref name=gulden>{{cite web|last=Burger|first=Paul|title=World's Longest Caves |url=https://cave-exploring.com/index.php/long-and-deep-caves-of-the-world/world-long-caves/|access-date=6 June 2024}}</ref>


==Description==
==Description==


The Three Counties System's most southerly entrance is currently Large Pot ({{coord|54.186439|-2.488420}}, NGR SD 6281 7685) on the northerly flank of [[Kingsdale]] in North Yorkshire, and the most northerly entrance is currently Bull Pot of the Witches ({{coord|54.226398|-2.519514}}, NGR SD 6623 8131) beneath Barbon Low Fell in Cumbria – a distance of almost {{convert|5|km|mi|0}}. Between the two, the system passes beneath Ireby Fell and [[Leck Fell]] which are in Lancashire.
The Three Counties System's most southerly entrance is currently North by North End Pot ({{coord|54.183628| -2.487239}}, NGR SD 6830 7654) on the northerly flank of [[Kingsdale]] in North Yorkshire, and the most northerly entrance is currently Bull Pot of the Witches ({{coord|54.226398|-2.519514}}, NGR SD 6623 8131) beneath Barbon Low Fell in Cumbria – a distance of over {{convert|5.2|km|mi|1}}. Between the two, the system passes beneath [[Leck Fell]] which is in Lancashire.


The system runs mainly north–south, its western extent being limited by the [[Craven Fault]] which truncates the limestone exposure, and the eastern extent where the limestones are conformable overlain by younger rocks. Streams flow from the higher topography from the east and sink into swallet holes at the edge of the limestone.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Waltham|first1=A.C.|title=Limestone and Caves of North-West England|date=1974|publisher=David and Charles|location=Newton Abbot|isbn=0715361813|pages=273–275}}</ref> The Three Counties System contains a number of major subterranean streams, all of which combine to resurge at Leck Beck Head above [[Cowan Bridge]]. At the northern end, swallets in [[Barbondale]] close to the [[Dent Fault]] drain south-west through Bull Pot of the Witches, and the water enters the Ease Gill Caverns system in Lancaster Hole; most of Ease Gill Beck to the south drains into the extensive Ease Gill Caverns, although some drains into Link Pot and thus into the bottom of Pippikin Pot; most of Leck Fell drains into the Leck Fell Master Cave, which is part of Lost Johns' Cave, although some drains into Gavel Pot, and some into Notts Pot; Ireby Fell in the south drains into Notts Pot. All these streams eventually reach the [[phreatic zone]] where exploration is only possible by [[cave diving]].<ref name="brook" /> Some small streams in the south of The Three Counties System are known to resurge at Keld Head in Kingsdale, the next valley to the south.
The system runs mainly north–south, its western extent being limited by the [[Craven Fault]] which truncates the limestone exposure, and the eastern extent where the limestones are conformable overlain by younger rocks. Streams flow from the higher topography from the east and sink into swallet holes at the edge of the limestone.<ref>{{cite book|last=Waltham|first=A.&nbsp;C.|title=Limestone and Caves of North-West England|year=1974|publisher=David and Charles|location=Newton Abbot|isbn=0715361813|pages=273–275}}</ref> The Three Counties System contains a number of major subterranean streams, all of which combine to resurge at Leck Beck Head above [[Cowan Bridge]]. At the northern end, swallets in [[Barbondale]] close to the [[Dent Fault]] drain south-west through Bull Pot of the Witches, and the water enters the Ease Gill Caverns system in [[Lancaster Hole]]; most of Ease Gill Beck to the south drains into the extensive Ease Gill Caverns, although some drains into Link Pot and thus into the bottom of Pippikin Pot; most of Leck Fell drains into the Leck Fell Master Cave, which is part of [[Lost Johns' Cave]], although some drains into Gavel Pot, and some into [[Notts Pot]]; Ireby Fell in the south drains into Notts Pot. All these streams eventually reach the [[phreatic zone]] where exploration is only possible by [[cave diving]].<ref name="brook" /> Some small streams in the south of The Three Counties System are known to resurge at Keld Head in Kingsdale, the next valley to the south.


The system is very complex, with sections formed at different times when the landscape topography and drainage patterns were different from today. Some of the system is believed to pre-date the Anglian glaciation which started at about 478 ka,<ref>{{cite book|last1=Waltham|first1=Tony|last2=Murphy|first2=Phil|editor1-last=Waltham|editor1-first=Tony|editor2-last=Lowe|editor2-first=David|title=Caves and Karst of the Yorkshire Dales|date=2013|publisher=British Cave Research Association|location=Buxton|isbn=978-0-900265-46-4|pages=142}}</ref> with one [[stalagmite]] in Lancaster Hole being [[Uranium-thorium dating|dated]] to over 350,000 years old, whilst other sections are still being formed today.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Gascoyne|first1=M |last2=Ford|first2=D.C.|title=Uranium Series Dating of Speletherms, Part II Results from the Yorkshire Dales and Implications for Cave Development and Quaternary Climates|journal=Cave Science:Transactions of the British Cave Research Association|date=July 1984|volume=11|issue=2|pages=65–84|url=http://hinko.org/hinko/Dowloads/BCRA/BCRA%2011-2-1984.pdf|access-date=24 July 2015}}</ref> Waltham has identified five distinct phases of development.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Waltham|first1=A.C.|title=Limestone and Caves of North-West England|date=1974|publisher=David and Charles|location=Newton Abbot|isbn=0715361813|page=285}}</ref> The [[Leck Fell|Leck Beck Catchment Area]] [[Site of Special Scientific Interest]], which is based around the catchment area of the Three Counties System, states in its reason for notification: "The scale and variety of the caves makes this a most important site for the study of surface and underground landform development over a long period of the recent past."<ref>{{cite web|title=Leck Beck Catchment Area|url=https://designatedsites.naturalengland.org.uk/SiteDetail.aspx?SiteCode=S1001420&SiteName=beck&countyCode=9&responsiblePerson=|website=Natural England|access-date=24 July 2015}}</ref> It is the interconnections between the sections that are the key to the existence of the super-system.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Waltham|first1=A.C. |title=Leck Fell and the Three Counties System |journal=Journal of the British Speleological Association |date=December 1971|volume=VI |issue=48 |pages=29–30}}</ref>
The system is very complex, with sections formed at different times when the landscape topography and drainage patterns were different from today. Some of the system is believed to pre-date the [[Anglian glaciation|Anglian stage]] which started at about 478 ka,<ref>{{cite book|last1=Waltham|first1=Tony|last2=Murphy|first2=Phil|editor1-last=Waltham|editor1-first=Tony|editor2-last=Lowe|editor2-first=David|title=Caves and Karst of the Yorkshire Dales|date=2013|publisher=British Cave Research Association|location=Buxton|isbn=978-0-900265-46-4|pages=142}}</ref> with one [[stalagmite]] in Lancaster Hole being [[Uranium-thorium dating|dated]] to over 350,000 years old, whilst other sections are still being formed today.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Gascoyne|first1=M. |last2=Ford|first2=D.&nbsp;C.|title=Uranium Series Dating of Speletherms, Part II Results from the Yorkshire Dales and Implications for Cave Development and Quaternary Climates|journal=Cave Science:Transactions of the British Cave Research Association|date=July 1984|volume=11|issue=2|pages=65–84|url=http://hinko.org/hinko/Dowloads/BCRA/BCRA%2011-2-1984.pdf|access-date=24 July 2015}}</ref> Waltham has identified five distinct phases of development.<ref>{{cite book|last=Waltham|first=A.&nbsp;C.|title=Limestone and Caves of North-West England|date=1974|publisher=David and Charles|location=Newton Abbot|isbn=0715361813|page=285}}</ref> The [[Leck Fell|Leck Beck Catchment Area]] [[Site of Special Scientific Interest]], which is based around the catchment area of the Three Counties System, states in its reason for notification: "The scale and variety of the caves makes this a most important site for the study of surface and underground landform development over a long period of the recent past."<ref>{{cite web|title=Leck Beck Catchment Area|url=https://designatedsites.naturalengland.org.uk/SiteDetail.aspx?SiteCode=S1001420&SiteName=beck&countyCode=9&responsiblePerson=|website=Natural England|access-date=24 July 2015}}</ref> It is the interconnections between the sections that are the key to the existence of the super-system.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Waltham|first1=A.&nbsp;C. |title=Leck Fell and the Three Counties System |journal=Journal of the British Speleological Association |date=December 1971|volume=VI |issue=48 |pages=29–30}}</ref>


The Three Counties System is {{convert|253|m}} deep. The highest point is the entrance to Large Pot which is at an altitude of {{convert|402|m}}, and the lowest point is in Gavel Pot where the upstream sump has been dived to a depth of {{convert|-64|m}}, an altitude of {{convert|149|m}}.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Brook|first1=D |last2=Griffith|first2=J |last3=Long |first3=H|last4=Ryder|first4=P|title=Northern Caves: The Three Counties and the North West|date=1994 |publisher=Dalesman Publishing Company Ltd.|location=Skipton |isbn=1855680831|pages=76, 92}}</ref>
The Three Counties System is {{convert|253|m}} deep. The highest point is the entrance to Large Pot which is at an altitude of {{convert|402|m}}, and the lowest point is in Gavel Pot where the upstream sump has been dived to a depth of {{convert|-64|m}}, an altitude of {{convert|149|m}}.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Brook|first1=D. |last2=Griffith|first2=J. |last3=Long |first3=H.|last4=Ryder|first4=P.|title=Northern Caves: The Three Counties and the North West|date=1994 |publisher=Dalesman Publishing Company Ltd.|location=Skipton |isbn=1855680831|pages=76, 92}}</ref>


==Major cave systems==
==Major cave systems==
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* '''[[Ireby Fell Cavern]]''' – links into Rift Pot, and to Notts Pot by diving.
* '''[[Ireby Fell Cavern]]''' – links into Rift Pot, and to Notts Pot by diving.
* '''[[Notts Pot]]''' – Notts I links to Ireby and Notts II by diving, and thence into Lost Johns' Cave.
* '''[[Notts Pot]]''' – Notts I links to Ireby and Notts II by diving, and thence into Lost Johns' Cave.
* '''[[Lost John's Cave|Lost Johns' Cave]]''' – links to Notts II, and to Gavel Pot and Pippikin Pot by diving.
* '''[[Lost Johns' Cave]]''' – links to Notts II, and to Gavel Pot and Witches II by diving.
* '''[[Short Drop Cave - Gavel Pot System]]''' – links to Lost Johns' Cave by diving.
* '''[[Short Drop Cave – Gavel Pot System]]''' – links to Lost Johns' Cave by diving.
* '''[[Death's Head Hole]]''' – [[Long Drop Cave]] – links to Lost Johns' Cave.
* '''[[Death's Head Hole]]''' – [[Long Drop Cave]] – links to Lost Johns' Cave.
* '''[[Rumbling Hole]]''' – links to Lost Johns' Cave.
* '''[[Rumbling Hole]]''' – links to Lost Johns' Cave.
* '''Pippikin Pot''' – links to Ease Gill Caverns, and to Witches Cave and Lost Johns' Cave by diving.
* '''Pippikin Pot''' – links to Ease Gill Caverns, and to Witches Cave by diving.
* '''[[Ease Gill Caverns]]''' – links to Pippikin Pot, and to Bull Pot of Witches by diving.
* '''[[Ease Gill Caverns]]''' – links to Pippikin Pot, and to Bull Pot of Witches by diving.
* '''Bull Pot of the Witches''' – links to Ease Gill Caverns by diving.
* '''Bull Pot of the Witches''' – links to Ease Gill Caverns by diving.
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==History==
==History==


Most of the individual systems that make up the Three Counties System had been explored to a greater or lesser extent a long time before the possibility of an extended system was mooted. Thus Lost Johns' Cave was explored by the [[Yorkshire Ramblers' Club]] in the 1920s, the Ease Gill Caverns System by a number of caving clubs from the time of the original discovery of Lancaster Hole in 1946, and Ireby Fell Cavern in 1949.
Most of the individual systems that make up the Three Counties System had been explored to a greater or lesser extent a long time before the possibility of an extended system was mooted. Thus Lost Johns' Cave was explored by the [[Yorkshire Ramblers' Club]] in the 1920s, Ease Gill Caverns by a number of caving clubs from the time of the original discovery of Lancaster Hole in 1946, and Ireby Fell Cavern in 1949.


The existence for the Three Counties System was first mooted by Dave Brook in 1968, when he proposed that the many fragmented systems stretching from Barbondale in the north to Kingsdale in the south could be part of a much larger system.<ref name="brook">{{cite journal|last1=Brook|first1=Dave|title=The Three Counties System|journal=University Speleological Association Review|date=September 1968|issue=3|pages=15–19}}</ref> Over the next 43 years, many discoveries by many cavers gradually knitted the fragments together, but the two most significant dates were 30 May 2010 when Rift Pot was connected to Ireby Fell Cavern, linking systems of North Yorkshire and Lancashire for the first time, and 6 November 2011, when Notts II was linked to Lost Johns' Cave, which was when the northern part of the system (including caves in Cumbria) was connected to the southern part of the system (including caves in Lancashire).
The existence for the Three Counties System was first mooted by Dave Brook in 1968, when he proposed that the many fragmented systems stretching from Barbondale in the north to Kingsdale in the south could be part of a much larger system.<ref name="brook">{{cite journal|last1=Brook|first1=Dave|title=The Three Counties System|journal=University Speleological Association Review|date=September 1968|issue=3|pages=15–19}}</ref> Over the next 43 years, many discoveries by many cavers gradually knitted the fragments together, but the two most significant dates were 30 May 2010 when Rift Pot was connected to Ireby Fell Cavern, linking systems of North Yorkshire and Lancashire for the first time,<ref name="ireby-rift-connection">{{cite web|url=https://www.lancashirelife.co.uk/out-about/places/the-amazing-story-of-adulterer-s-bypass-and-the-underground-cave-system-connecting-three-counties-1-4969999|title=The amazing story of Adulterer's Bypass and the underground cave system connecting three counties|work=Lancashire Life|access-date=7 April 2020}}</ref> and 6 November 2011, when Notts II was linked to Lost Johns' Cave, which was when the northern part of the system (including caves in Cumbria) was connected to the southern part of the system (including caves in Lancashire).<ref name="notts-lj-connection">{{cite news|title=Potholers break through the final Three Counties link|url=https://www.theguardian.com/uk/the-northerner/2011/nov/07/caving-potholing-three-counties-system-gaping-gill-white-scar-caves-edouard-martel|access-date=20 July 2015|newspaper=The Guardian|first=Martin |last=Wainwright|date=7 November 2011}}</ref>


Following months of preparatory work, and supported by a large number of cavers from numerous northern caving clubs and elsewhere, a complete traverse of the Three Counties System from Large Pot in North Yorkshire to Top Sink in Easegill in Cumbria was made by caver divers Chris Jewell and Jason Mallinson over the weekend of 25-26 September 2021 [ref to be added].
Following months of preparatory work, and with the support of over fifty cavers, the first complete traverse of the Three Counties System, between Large Pot in North Yorkshire and Top Sink in Cumbria, was completed by Chris Jewell and Jason Mallinson over the weekend of 25–26 September 2021.<ref name="first-traverse">{{cite news |date=30 September 2021 |title=Heroic Thai cave rescuers complete historic feat in Cumbria |url=https://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/19613896.heroic-thai-cave-rescuers-complete-historic-feat-cumbria/ |newspaper=The Westmorland Gazette |first=Ambrose |last=Young |access-date=6 October 2021}}</ref> In all, the two traversed {{convert|10.8|km|mi}} of passage, of which {{convert|2.2|km|mi}} were underwater, in 17½ hours.<ref>{{cite journal |title=The Grand Traverse |last=Jewell |first=Chris |journal=Descent |date=December 2021 |issue=283|pages=22–26}}</ref>


===Fatalities===
===Fatalities===
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This chronology includes the date of the original explorations of the major systems; the dates when two systems were linked; and deaths that have occurred in the system.
This chronology includes the date of the original explorations of the major systems; the dates when two systems were linked; and deaths that have occurred in the system.


* 1898: Deaths' Head Hole fully descended.<ref name="cutriss">{{cite journal|last1=Cuttriss|first1=S.W. |title=The Leck Fell Pot-Holes|journal=Yorkshire Ramblers' Club Journal|date=1922|volume=5|issue=15|pages=60–64|url=http://www.yrc.org.uk/yrcweb/index.php/journal/vols1-5/59-vol5-cat/no15/248-v5n15p60|access-date=14 July 2015|publisher=YRC|location=Leeds}}</ref>
* 1885: Gavel Pot explored upstream into Short Drop Cave.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Hastings|first1=C.|title=Gavel Pot in 1885.|journal=Yorkshire Ramblers' Club Journal|date=1930|volume=6|issue=19|pages=60–62|url=https://www.yrc.org.uk/journal-and-image-archive/journal-selector/yrc-journal-1930-vol-6-no-19/journal-v6n19p60/|accessdate=7 October 2021|publisher=YRC|location=Leeds}}</ref>
⚫
* 1898: Deaths' Head Hole fully descended.<ref name="cutriss">{{cite journal|last1=Cuttriss|first1=S.&nbsp;W. |title=The Leck Fell Pot-Holes|journal=Yorkshire Ramblers' Club Journal|date=1922|volume=5|issue=15|pages=60–64|url=https://www.yrc.org.uk/journal-and-image-archive/journal-selector/yrc-journal-1922-vol-5-no-15/journal-v5n15p60/|access-date=7 October 2021|publisher=YRC|location=Leeds}}</ref>
* 1898: Short Drop Cave explored.<ref name="cutriss" />
* 1898: Short Drop Cave explored and connected to Gavel Pot.<ref name="cutriss" />
* 1899: Bull Pot of the Witches explored.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=YRC Committee|title=Club Proceedings|journal=Yorkshire Ramblers' Club Journal|date=1900|volume=1|issue=2|pages=134–141|url=http://www.yrc.org.uk/yrcweb/index.php/journal/vols1-5/26-vol1-cat/no2/67-v1n2p134|publisher=YRC|location=Leeds}}</ref>
* 1899: Bull Pot of the Witches explored.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=YRC Committee|title=Club Proceedings|journal=Yorkshire Ramblers' Club Journal|date=1900|volume=1|issue=2|pages=134–141|url=https://www.yrc.org.uk/journal-and-image-archive/journal-selector/volume-1-2-1900/club-proceedings/|access-date=7 October 2021|publisher=YRC|location=Leeds}}</ref>
[[File:Descending a shaft in Notts Pot.jpg|thumb|A caver descending a {{convert|25|m|adj=on}} shaft in Notts Pot]]
[[File:Descending a shaft in Notts Pot.jpg|thumb|A caver descending a {{convert|25|m|adj=on}} shaft in Notts Pot]]
* 1928: Lost Johns' Cave first fully descended.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Foley|first1=Innes|title=Lost Johns' Cave|journal=Yorkshire Ramblers' Club Journal|date=1930|volume=6|issue=19|pages=54–59|publisher=YRC|location=Leeds}}</ref>
* 1928: Lost Johns' Cave first fully descended.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Foley|first1=Innes|title=Lost Johns' Cave|journal=Yorkshire Ramblers' Club Journal|date=1930|volume=6|issue=19|pages=54–59|publisher=YRC|location=Leeds|url=https://www.yrc.org.uk/journal-and-image-archive/journal-selector/yrc-journal-1930-vol-6-no-19/journal-v6n19p44/|access-date=7 October 2021}}</ref>
* 1932: Rumbling Hole first fully descended.<ref name="cutriss" />
⚫
* 1932: Rumbling Hole first fully descended.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=The Editor|title=Rumbling Hole, Leck Fell|journal=Yorkshire Ramblers' Club Journal|date=1934|volume=6|issue=21|pages=229–234|url=http://www.yrc.org.uk/yrcweb/index.php/journal/vols1-5/volume4/56-n13/332-v4n13p160|access-date=11 July 2015|publisher=YRC|location=Leeds}}</ref>
* 1946: Lancaster Hole – Ease Gill Caverns explorations began.<ref name="crg">{{cite journal|last1=Eyre|first1=J|last2=Ashmead|first2=P|title=Lancaster Hole and the Ease Gill Caverns, Casterton Fell, Westmorland|journal=The Transactions of the Cave Research Group|date=March 1967|volume=9|issue=2|pages=117–19}}</ref>
* 1946: Lancaster Hole – Ease Gill Caverns explorations began.<ref name="crg">{{cite journal|last1=Eyre|first1=J.|last2=Ashmead|first2=P.|title=Lancaster Hole and the Ease Gill Caverns, Casterton Fell, Westmorland|journal=The Transactions of the Cave Research Group|date=March 1967|volume=9|issue=2|pages=117–19}}</ref>
* 1946: Notts Pot explored.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Gemmell|first1=A|last2=Myers|first2=J.O.|title=Underground Adventure|date=1952|publisher=Dalesman Publishing Company|location=Clapham, Yorkshire|pages=63–75}}</ref>
* 1946: Notts Pot explored.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Gemmell|first1=A.|last2=Myers|first2=J.&nbsp;O.|title=Underground Adventure|date=1952|publisher=Dalesman Publishing Company|location=Clapham, Yorkshire|pages=63–75}}</ref>
* 1949: Ireby Fell Cavern explored.<ref name="cs1949">{{cite journal|author=F Atkinson|title=The Cavern. Ireby Fell. Lancashire|year=1949|journal=Cave Science – A Quarterly Review of Speleology|publisher=Settle, BSA|volume=II|number=9|pages=21–27}}</ref>
* 1949: Ireby Fell Cavern explored.<ref name="cs1949">{{cite journal|first=F. |last=Atkinson|title=The Cavern. Ireby Fell. Lancashire|year=1949|journal=Cave Science – A Quarterly Review of Speleology|publisher=Settle, BSA|volume=II|number=9|pages=21–27}}</ref>
* 1950: Boundary Pot explored.<ref name="crg" />
* 1950: Boundary Pot explored.<ref name="crg" />
* 1952: Oxford Pot opened, allowing easier access to Ease Gill Caverns.<ref name="crg" />
* 1952: Oxford Pot opened, allowing easier access to Ease Gill Caverns.<ref name="crg" />
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* ''1964: Alan Clegg died whilst diving in the Lancaster Hole terminal sump.''<ref>{{cite web|title=CDG History 1960 – 1969|url=http://www.cavedivinggroup.org.uk/Essays/History/1960.html|work=Cave diving highlights|publisher=Cave Diving Group|access-date=16 January 2014}}</ref>
* ''1964: Alan Clegg died whilst diving in the Lancaster Hole terminal sump.''<ref>{{cite web|title=CDG History 1960 – 1969|url=http://www.cavedivinggroup.org.uk/Essays/History/1960.html|work=Cave diving highlights|publisher=Cave Diving Group|access-date=16 January 2014}}</ref>
* 1965: Long Drop Cave fully descended.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Hobbs|first1=Robin|title=Long Drop Cave 1965|journal=Gritstone Club Journal|date=1966|issue=2|pages=26–29}}</ref>
* 1965: Long Drop Cave fully descended.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Hobbs|first1=Robin|title=Long Drop Cave 1965|journal=Gritstone Club Journal|date=1966|issue=2|pages=26–29}}</ref>
* 1966: Bull Pot of the Witches connected to Lancaster Hole by diving, connecting the Ease Gill and Aygill drainage systems.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Wooding|first1=M.J.|title=Lancaster – Bull Pot 19 November 1966|journal=British Speleological Society Bulletin|date=July 1967|issue=75|pages=9–10}}</ref>
* 1966: Bull Pot of the Witches connected to Lancaster Hole by diving, connecting the Ease Gill and Aygill drainage systems.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Wooding|first1=M.&nbsp;J.|title=Lancaster – Bull Pot 19 November 1966|journal=British Speleological Society Bulletin|date=July 1967|issue=75|pages=9–10}}</ref>
* 1969: Lyle Cavern, a high level fossil series, explored in Lost Johns' Cave. This was later linked to Notts II.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Waltham|first1=Tony|title=Discovery of Lyle Cavern High Levels in Lost John's|url=http://www.michaelmelvin.co.uk/hwcpc/lyle_cavern.html|website=Happy Wanderers Cave and Pothole Club|access-date=20 July 2015}}</ref>
* 1969: Lyle Cavern, a high level fossil series, explored in Lost Johns' Cave. This was later linked to Notts II.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Waltham|first1=Tony|title=Discovery of Lyle Cavern High Levels in Lost John's|url=http://www.michaelmelvin.co.uk/hwcpc/lyle_cavern.html|website=Happy Wanderers Cave and Pothole Club|access-date=20 July 2015}}</ref>
* 1968: Dave Brook first proposed the possibility of the Three Counties System.<ref name="brook" />
* 1968: Dave Brook first proposed the possibility of the Three Counties System.<ref name="brook" />
* ''1969: Duncan Glasfurd died as a result of a rock fall in Ease Gill Caverns.''<ref name=Eyre-91>Eyre (1988), p.&nbsp;91.</ref><ref>{{cite journal|title=Easegill Tragedy|journal=Speleologist|date=Autumn 1969|volume=3|issue=19|page=3}}</ref>
* ''1969: Duncan Glasfurd died as a result of a rock fall in Ease Gill Caverns.''{{sfnb|Eyre|Frankland|1988|p=91}}<ref>{{cite journal|title=Easegill Tragedy|journal=Speleologist|date=Autumn 1969|volume=3|issue=19|page=3}}</ref>
* 1970: Gavel Pot fully descended.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Smith|first1=B|title=Gavel Pot|journal=Northern Pennine Club Records|date=1970|url=http://www.pennine.demon.co.uk/NPC/EXPLORE/GAVEL.HTM|access-date=20 July 2015}}</ref>
* 1970: Gavel Pot fully descended.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Smith|first1=B.|title=Gavel Pot|journal=Northern Pennine Club Records|date=1970|url=http://www.pennine.demon.co.uk/NPC/EXPLORE/GAVEL.HTM|access-date=20 July 2015}}</ref>
* 1971: Earby Series explored in Lancaster Hole.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Latham|first1=Brian|title=EPC '71 (Stake Pot) Series – Lancaster Hole|journal=University of Leeds Speleological Association Review|date=April 1972|issue=9|pages=3–11}}</ref>
* 1971: Earby Series explored in Lancaster Hole.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Latham|first1=Brian|title=EPC '71 (Stake Pot) Series – Lancaster Hole|journal=University of Leeds Speleological Association Review|date=April 1972|issue=9|pages=3–11}}</ref>
* 1975: Gavel Pot linked to Lost Johns' Cave by diving. linking two major drainage systems on Leck Fell.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Digs and Discoveries|journal=University of Leeds Speleological Society Review|date=August 1976|issue=14}}</ref>
* 1975: Gavel Pot linked to Lost Johns' Cave by diving. linking two major drainage systems on Leck Fell.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Digs and Discoveries|journal=University of Leeds Speleological Society Review|date=August 1976|issue=14}}</ref>
* ''1975: Stephen Hughes died as a result of a fall in Ireby Fell Cavern.''<ref name=Eyre-195>Eyre (1988), p.&nbsp;195.</ref>
* ''1975: Stephen Hughes died as a result of a fall in Ireby Fell Cavern.''{{sfnb|Eyre|Frankland|1988|p=195}}
* 1976: Ireby Fell Cavern linked to Notts Pot by diving.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Papard Dives to Link Notts Pot and Ireby Cavern|journal=Descent|date=August 1976|issue=34|page=4}}</ref>
* 1976: Ireby Fell Cavern linked to Notts Pot by diving.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Papard Dives to Link Notts Pot and Ireby Cavern|journal=Descent|date=August 1976|issue=34|page=4}}</ref>
* 1978: Link Pot explored and connected with Pippikin Pot and Lancaster Hole, linking Leck Fell and Casterton Fell cave systems.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Link Pot|journal=Northern Pennine Club|date=1979|volume=3|issue=2|url=http://www.pennine.demon.co.uk/NPC/1979/LINK1.HTM|access-date=23 July 2015}}</ref>
* 1978: Link Pot explored and connected with Pippikin Pot and Lancaster Hole, linking Leck Fell and Casterton Fell cave systems.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Link Pot|journal=Northern Pennine Club|date=1979|volume=3|issue=2|url=http://www.pennine.demon.co.uk/NPC/1979/LINK1.HTM|access-date=23 July 2015}}</ref>
* ''1980: Ian Plant died whilst diving in the upstream sump of Bull Pot of the Witches.''<ref>{{cite journal|title=Ian Plant dies in Yorkshire cave dive|journal=Descent|date=March–April 1980|issue=45|page=4}}</ref>
* ''1980: Ian Plant died whilst diving in the upstream sump of Bull Pot of the Witches.''<ref>{{cite journal|title=Ian Plant dies in Yorkshire cave dive|journal=Descent|date=March–April 1980|issue=45|page=4}}</ref>
* 1981: Long Drop Cave connected to Death's Head Cave.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Brook|first1=D |last2=Griffith|first2=J |last3=Long |first3=H|last4=Ryder|first4=P|title=Northern Caves: The Three Counties and the North West|date=1994 |publisher=Dalesman Publishing Company Ltd.|location=Skipton |isbn=1855680831|pages=97–98}}</ref>
* 1981: Long Drop Cave connected to Death's Head Cave.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Brook|first1=D. |last2=Griffith|first2=J. |last3=Long |first3=H.|last4=Ryder|first4=P.|title=Northern Caves: The Three Counties and the North West|date=1994 |publisher=Dalesman Publishing Company Ltd.|location=Skipton |isbn=1855680831|pages=97–98}}</ref>
* 1982: Lost Pot, the upstream entrance to Lost Johns' Cave, explored, but then collapsed.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Shaw |first1=Chester|title=Lost Pot |journal=Northern Pennine Club Journal|date=1982|volume=3|issue=3|pages=76–79}}</ref>
* 1982: Lost Pot, the upstream entrance to Lost Johns' Cave, explored, but then collapsed.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Shaw |first1=Chester|title=Lost Pot |journal=Northern Pennine Club Journal|date=1982|volume=3|issue=3|pages=76–79}}</ref>
* ''1982: John Martin died as a result of a fall in Ireby Fell Cavern.''<ref name=Eyre-200>Eyre (1988), p.&nbsp;200.</ref>
* ''1982: John Martin died as a result of a fall in Ireby Fell Cavern.''{{sfnb|Eyre|Frankland|1988|p=200}}
* 1982: Large Pot explored.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Edwards|first1=G|title=The Exploration of Large Pot|journal=NPC Journal|date=1982|volume=3|issue=3|pages=51–61}}</ref>[[File:Formations in Witches II cave, Lancashire, England.jpg|thumb|Calcite formations in Witches II cave.]]
* 1982: Large Pot explored.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Edwards|first1=G.|title=The Exploration of Large Pot|journal=NPC Journal|date=1982|volume=3|issue=3|pages=51–61}}</ref>[[File:Formations in Witches II cave, Lancashire, England.jpg|thumb|Calcite formations in Witches II cave.]]
* 1984: Rift Pot explored, and connected to Large Pot.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Davis|first1=B|title=Rift Pot – A Brief History|journal=Northern Cave Club Journal 'The Caver'|date=1985|volume=5|pages=9–17}}</ref>
* 1984: Rift Pot explored, and connected to Large Pot.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Davis|first1=B.|title=Rift Pot – A Brief History|journal=Northern Cave Club Journal 'The Caver'|year=1985|volume=5|pages=9–17}}</ref>
* 1985: Rumbling Hole connected to Lost Johns' Cave.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Boothroyd|first1=Colin|title=Lost John's Pot / Rumbling Hole Connection|journal=Lancaster University Speleological Society|date=1987|volume=4|page=21|url=http://archives.bcra.org.uk/index.php?display=luss%2Fluss4%2Fluss%204-023-001.jpg|access-date=11 July 2015}}</ref>
* 1985: Rumbling Hole connected to Lost Johns' Cave.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Boothroyd|first1=Colin|title=Lost John's Pot / Rumbling Hole Connection|journal=Lancaster University Speleological Society|date=1987|volume=4|page=21|url=http://archives.bcra.org.uk/index.php?display=luss%2Fluss4%2Fluss%204-023-001.jpg|access-date=11 July 2015}}</ref>
* ''1985: David James drowned in Lancaster Hole.''<ref>{{cite journal|title=David James – drowned in Lancaster |last=Boothroyd |first=Colin |journal=Descent |date=January–February 1986 |issue=86 |page=7}}</ref>
* ''1985: David James drowned in Lancaster Hole.''<ref>{{cite journal|title=David James – drowned in Lancaster |last=Boothroyd |first=Colin |journal=Descent |date=January–February 1986 |issue=86 |page=7}}</ref>
* 1985: Notts II discovered by diving.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Sudell|first1=Barry|title=The Notts Pot Dives|journal=Northern Pennine Club Journal|date=1987|pages=6–9}}</ref>
* 1985: Notts II discovered by diving.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Sudell|first1=Barry|title=The Notts Pot Dives|journal=Northern Pennine Club Journal|date=1987|pages=6–9}}</ref>
* ''1988: Janet Barnfield, Michael Preece, and David Simpson died as a result of a rockfall in Ease Gill Caverns.''<ref name="Boothroyd 12">{{cite journal|title=Easegill Tragedy |last=Boothroyd |first=Colin |journal=Descent |date=June–July 1988 |issue=82 |page=12}}</ref>
* ''1988: Janet Barnfield, Michael Preece, and David Simpson died as a result of a rockfall in Ease Gill Caverns.''<ref name="Boothroyd 12">{{cite journal|title=Easegill Tragedy |last=Boothroyd |first=Colin |journal=Descent |date=June–July 1988 |issue=82 |page=12}}</ref>
* 1989: Sylvester Pot explored and connected to Ease Gill Caverns.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Brook|first1=D |last2=Griffith|first2=J |last3=Long |first3=H|last4=Ryder|first4=P|title=Northern Caves: The Three Counties and the North West|date=1994 |publisher=Dalesman Publishing Company Ltd.|location=Skipton |isbn=1855680831|pages=164–166}}</ref>
* 1989: Sylvester Pot explored and connected to Ease Gill Caverns.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Brook|first1=D. |last2=Griffith|first2=J. |last3=Long |first3=H.|last4=Ryder|first4=P.|title=Northern Caves: The Three Counties and the North West|date=1994 |publisher=Dalesman Publishing Company Ltd.|location=Skipton |isbn=1855680831|pages=164–166}}</ref>
* 1989: Pippikin linked to Gavel Pot by diving, connecting two important Leck Fell drainage systems.
* 1989: Pippikin linked to Gavel Pot by diving, connecting two important Leck Fell drainage systems.
* ''1994: Paul Lyons died as the result of a rock fall in Lost Johns' Cave.''<ref>{{cite journal|title=Lost John's fatality|last=Monico |first=Paul |journal=Descent |date=April–May 1994 |issue=117 |page=16}}</ref>
* ''1994: Paul Lyons died as the result of a rock fall in Lost Johns' Cave.''<ref>{{cite journal|title=Lost John's fatality|last=Monico |first=Paul |journal=Descent |date=April–May 1994 |issue=117 |page=16}}</ref>
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* ''2001: Julian Carrol and Ray Lea drowned in Ireby Fell Cavern.''<ref>{{cite journal |title=Twin fatalities in Ireby Fell Cavern |first=Alan |last=Speight |journal=Descent |date=April–May 2001 |issue=159 |page=10}}</ref>
* ''2001: Julian Carrol and Ray Lea drowned in Ireby Fell Cavern.''<ref>{{cite journal |title=Twin fatalities in Ireby Fell Cavern |first=Alan |last=Speight |journal=Descent |date=April–May 2001 |issue=159 |page=10}}</ref>
* ''2004: Paula Szajnowska died as the result of a fall in Notts Pot.''<ref>{{cite journal|title=Notts Pot fatality |journal=Descent |date=December 2004 – January 2005 |issue=181|page=16}}</ref>
* ''2004: Paula Szajnowska died as the result of a fall in Notts Pot.''<ref>{{cite journal|title=Notts Pot fatality |journal=Descent |date=December 2004 – January 2005 |issue=181|page=16}}</ref>
* 2010: Ireby Fell Cavern linked to Rift Pot, connecting caves of North Yorkshire with caves in Lancashire.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.lancashirelife.co.uk/out-about/places/the-amazing-story-of-adulterer-s-bypass-and-the-underground-cave-system-connecting-three-counties-1-4969999|title=The amazing story of Adulterer's Bypass and the underground cave system connecting three counties|work=Lancashire Life|access-date=7 April 2020}}</ref>
* 2010: Ireby Fell Cavern linked to Rift Pot, connecting caves of North Yorkshire with caves in Lancashire.<ref name="ireby-rift-connection"/>
* 2011: Notts II connected to Lyle Cavern in Lost Johns' Cave, integrating two important Leck Fell drainage systems, and making the Three Counties System a reality.<ref>{{cite news|title=Potholers break through the final Three Counties link|url=https://www.theguardian.com/uk/the-northerner/2011/nov/07/caving-potholing-three-counties-system-gaping-gill-white-scar-caves-edouard-martel|access-date=20 July 2015|work=The Guardian|date=7 November 2011}}</ref>
* 2011: Notts II connected to Lyle Cavern in Lost Johns' Cave, integrating two important Leck Fell drainage systems, and making the Three Counties System a reality.<ref name="notts-lj-connection"/>
* 2011: Death's Head Hole connected to Lost Johns' Cave.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Nunwick|first1=Mick |title=Going Head to Head on Leck Fell|journal=Descent|date=April–May 2012|issue=225|pages=22–23}}</ref>
* 2011: Death's Head Hole connected to Lost Johns' Cave.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Nunwick|first1=Mick |title=Going Head to Head on Leck Fell|journal=Descent|date=April–May 2012|issue=225|pages=22–23}}</ref>
* 2012: Boundary Pot connected to Ease Gill Caverns.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Allen|first1=Tim |title=The Manhattan Connection|journal=Descent|date=December 2012|issue=229|pages=43–46}}</ref>
* 2012: Boundary Pot connected to Ease Gill Caverns.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Allen|first1=Tim |title=The Manhattan Connection|journal=Descent|date=December 2012|issue=229|pages=43–46}}</ref>
* 2013: Low Douk is connected to Rift Pot.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Allen|first1=Tim|title=Connection Fever|journal=Descent|date=August–September 2013|issue=233|pages=16–18}}</ref>
* 2013: Low Douk is connected to Rift Pot.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Allen|first1=Tim|title=Connection Fever|journal=Descent|date=August–September 2013|issue=233|pages=16–18}}</ref>
* ''2020: Simon Halliday died whilst diving in Lancaster Hole terminal sump.''<ref>{{cite web |last1=Beever |first1=Susie |title=Tragedy as man dies in Yorkshire Dales underground cave diving expedition |url=https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/people/tragedy-as-man-dies-in-yorkshire-dales-underground-cave-diving-expedition-1-10185570 |website=Yorkshire Evening Post |access-date=6 January 2020}}</ref>
* ''2020: Simon Halliday died whilst diving in Lancaster Hole terminal sump.''<ref>{{cite web |last1=Beever |first1=Susie |title=Tragedy as man dies in Yorkshire Dales underground cave diving expedition |url=https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/people/tragedy-as-man-dies-in-yorkshire-dales-underground-cave-diving-expedition-1-10185570 |website=Yorkshire Evening Post |access-date=6 January 2020}}</ref>
* 2021: First complete traverse of the Three Counties System successfully undertaken.<ref name="first-traverse"/>
* 2024: North by North End Pot connected to Large Pot.<ref name="descent298"/>


==Future prospects==
==Future prospects==


Although Dave Brook's vision for the Three Counties System has come to fruition, there is considerable scope for extending it in both directions. To the north in Barbondale, Aygill Caverns is known to drain into Bull Pot of the Witches, but a route through the underwater passages has yet to be negotiated. This would add {{convert|2.5|km}} to the total system.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Brook|first1=D |last2=Griffith|first2=J |last3=Long |first3=H|last4=Ryder|first4=P|title=Northern Caves: The Three Counties and the North West|date=1994 |publisher=Dalesman Publishing Company Ltd.|location=Skipton |isbn=1855680831|pages=119–121}}</ref> Further north still, a major abandoned route in Aygill Caverns, known as New Year Passage, heads up the Barbondale valley, and may connect with other known caves.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Waltham|first1=A.C.|title=Leck Fell and the Three Counties System|journal=Journal of the British Speleological Association|date=December 1971|volume=VI|issue=48|pages=31–32}}</ref> To the south, explorations in Large Pot have extended the current system to within {{convert|500|m}} of Kingsdale Beck.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Pacey|first1=Neil |title=Mud Mining on the Eastern Front |journal=Descent|date=February–March 2015|issue=236 |pages=19–22}}</ref> Marble Steps, a major active system with large fossil fragments, could well be connected to Rift Pot. Marble Steps, some of Large Pot, and Low Douk Cave are all known to drain to Keld Head – a connection by diving would integrate both the West Kingsdale System ({{convert|9|km}} long) and the East Kingsdale System ({{convert|7|km}} long) into the system.<ref name="brook" />
Although Dave Brook's vision for the Three Counties System came to fruition in 2011, there is considerable scope for extending it in both directions. To the north in Barbondale, Aygill Caverns is known to drain into Bull Pot of the Witches, but a route through the underwater passages has yet to be negotiated. This would add {{convert|2.5|km}} to the total system.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Brook|first1=D. |last2=Griffith|first2=J. |last3=Long |first3=H.|last4=Ryder|first4=P.|title=Northern Caves: The Three Counties and the North West|date=1994 |publisher=Dalesman Publishing Company Ltd.|location=Skipton |isbn=1855680831|pages=119–121}}</ref> Further north still, a major abandoned route in Aygill Caverns, known as New Year Passage, heads up the Barbondale valley, and may connect with other known caves.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Waltham|first1=A.&nbsp;C.|title=Leck Fell and the Three Counties System|journal=Journal of the British Speleological Association|date=December 1971|volume=VI|issue=48|pages=31–32}}</ref> To the south, explorations in Large Pot have extended the current system to within {{convert|500|m}} of Kingsdale Beck.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Pacey|first1=Neil |title=Mud Mining on the Eastern Front |journal=Descent|date=February–March 2015|issue=236 |pages=19–22}}</ref> Marble Steps, a major active system with large fossil fragments, could well be connected to Rift Pot. Marble Steps, some of Large Pot, and Low Douk Cave are all known to drain to Keld Head – a connection by diving would integrate both the West Kingsdale System ({{convert|9|km}} long) and the East Kingsdale System ({{convert|7|km}} long) into the system.<ref name="brook" />


== See also ==
== See also ==


* [[Caving in the United Kingdom]]
* [[Caving in the United Kingdom]]
* [[List of longest caves]]


==References==
==References==
Line 128: Line 133:


==Sources==
==Sources==
*{{cite book|last=Eyre|first=Jim|title=Race Against Time|year=1988|publisher=Lyon Equipment (Books)|location=Dent, Sedbergh|isbn=0950687448|author2=John Frankland }}
*{{cite book|last=Eyre|first=Jim|title=Race Against Time|year=1988|publisher=Lyon Equipment (Books)|location=Dent, Sedbergh|isbn=0950687448|first2=John |last2=Frankland }}




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[[Category:Caves of Cumbria]]
[[Category:Caves of Cumbria]]
[[Category:Limestone caves]]
[[Category:Limestone caves]]
[[Category:Karst caves]]
[[Category:Wild caves]]
[[Category:Wild caves]]

Latest revision as of 03:34, 25 November 2024

Three Counties System
Duke Street in Ireby Fell Cavern II
Map showing the location of Three Counties System
Map showing the location of Three Counties System
LocationNorth-West England
Coordinates54°12′25″N 2°30′23″W / 54.20699°N 2.506452°W / 54.20699; -2.506452
Depth253 metres (830 ft)[1]
Lengthabout 90 kilometres (56 mi)[2]
GeologyCarboniferous limestone
Entrances56 [3]
DifficultyVarious
HazardsVarious
AccessVarious[4]

The Three Counties System is a set of inter-connected limestone solutional cave systems spanning the borders of Cumbria, Lancashire and North Yorkshire in the north of England. The possibility of connecting a number of discrete cave systems in the area to create a single super-system that spans the county borders was first proposed by Dave Brook in 1968, and it was achieved in 2011. The system is currently about 90 kilometres (56 mi) long, making it the longest in the UK and the thirty-fourth longest in the world, and there continues to be scope for considerably extending the system.[5]

Description

[edit]

The Three Counties System's most southerly entrance is currently North by North End Pot (54°11′01″N 2°29′14″W / 54.183628°N 2.487239°W / 54.183628; -2.487239, NGR SD 6830 7654) on the northerly flank of Kingsdale in North Yorkshire, and the most northerly entrance is currently Bull Pot of the Witches (54°13′35″N 2°31′10″W / 54.226398°N 2.519514°W / 54.226398; -2.519514, NGR SD 6623 8131) beneath Barbon Low Fell in Cumbria – a distance of over 5.2 kilometres (3.2 mi). Between the two, the system passes beneath Leck Fell which is in Lancashire.

The system runs mainly north–south, its western extent being limited by the Craven Fault which truncates the limestone exposure, and the eastern extent where the limestones are conformable overlain by younger rocks. Streams flow from the higher topography from the east and sink into swallet holes at the edge of the limestone.[6] The Three Counties System contains a number of major subterranean streams, all of which combine to resurge at Leck Beck Head above Cowan Bridge. At the northern end, swallets in Barbondale close to the Dent Fault drain south-west through Bull Pot of the Witches, and the water enters the Ease Gill Caverns system in Lancaster Hole; most of Ease Gill Beck to the south drains into the extensive Ease Gill Caverns, although some drains into Link Pot and thus into the bottom of Pippikin Pot; most of Leck Fell drains into the Leck Fell Master Cave, which is part of Lost Johns' Cave, although some drains into Gavel Pot, and some into Notts Pot; Ireby Fell in the south drains into Notts Pot. All these streams eventually reach the phreatic zone where exploration is only possible by cave diving.[7] Some small streams in the south of The Three Counties System are known to resurge at Keld Head in Kingsdale, the next valley to the south.

The system is very complex, with sections formed at different times when the landscape topography and drainage patterns were different from today. Some of the system is believed to pre-date the Anglian stage which started at about 478 ka,[8] with one stalagmite in Lancaster Hole being dated to over 350,000 years old, whilst other sections are still being formed today.[9] Waltham has identified five distinct phases of development.[10] The Leck Beck Catchment Area Site of Special Scientific Interest, which is based around the catchment area of the Three Counties System, states in its reason for notification: "The scale and variety of the caves makes this a most important site for the study of surface and underground landform development over a long period of the recent past."[11] It is the interconnections between the sections that are the key to the existence of the super-system.[12]

The Three Counties System is 253 metres (830 ft) deep. The highest point is the entrance to Large Pot which is at an altitude of 402 metres (1,319 ft), and the lowest point is in Gavel Pot where the upstream sump has been dived to a depth of −64 metres (−210 ft), an altitude of 149 metres (489 ft).[13]

Major cave systems

[edit]
Wilf Taylor's Passage, Lancaster Hole

The Three Counties System comprises a number of smaller cave systems, some with multiple entrances. Whether or not a particular cave qualifies as a system in its own right is somewhat arbitrary, and arguments can be made for excluding some and including others. Running broadly from south to north, the systems include:

  • Large Pot – Rift Pot system – connects into Ireby Fell Cavern.
  • Low Douk – links into Rift Pot.
  • Ireby Fell Cavern – links into Rift Pot, and to Notts Pot by diving.
  • Notts Pot – Notts I links to Ireby and Notts II by diving, and thence into Lost Johns' Cave.
  • Lost Johns' Cave – links to Notts II, and to Gavel Pot and Witches II by diving.
  • Short Drop Cave – Gavel Pot System – links to Lost Johns' Cave by diving.
  • Death's Head Hole – Long Drop Cave – links to Lost Johns' Cave.
  • Rumbling Hole – links to Lost Johns' Cave.
  • Pippikin Pot – links to Ease Gill Caverns, and to Witches Cave by diving.
  • Ease Gill Caverns – links to Pippikin Pot, and to Bull Pot of Witches by diving.
  • Bull Pot of the Witches – links to Ease Gill Caverns by diving.
  • Leck Beck Head – Witches Cave – links to Pippikin Pot by diving.

History

[edit]

Most of the individual systems that make up the Three Counties System had been explored to a greater or lesser extent a long time before the possibility of an extended system was mooted. Thus Lost Johns' Cave was explored by the Yorkshire Ramblers' Club in the 1920s, Ease Gill Caverns by a number of caving clubs from the time of the original discovery of Lancaster Hole in 1946, and Ireby Fell Cavern in 1949.

The existence for the Three Counties System was first mooted by Dave Brook in 1968, when he proposed that the many fragmented systems stretching from Barbondale in the north to Kingsdale in the south could be part of a much larger system.[7] Over the next 43 years, many discoveries by many cavers gradually knitted the fragments together, but the two most significant dates were 30 May 2010 when Rift Pot was connected to Ireby Fell Cavern, linking systems of North Yorkshire and Lancashire for the first time,[14] and 6 November 2011, when Notts II was linked to Lost Johns' Cave, which was when the northern part of the system (including caves in Cumbria) was connected to the southern part of the system (including caves in Lancashire).[15]

Following months of preparatory work, and with the support of over fifty cavers, the first complete traverse of the Three Counties System, between Large Pot in North Yorkshire and Top Sink in Cumbria, was completed by Chris Jewell and Jason Mallinson over the weekend of 25–26 September 2021.[16] In all, the two traversed 10.8 kilometres (6.7 mi) of passage, of which 2.2 kilometres (1.4 mi) were underwater, in 17½ hours.[17]

Fatalities

[edit]

Sixteen cavers have lost their lives in the Three Counties System. These fatalities are listed in the chronology below.

Chronology

[edit]

This chronology includes the date of the original explorations of the major systems; the dates when two systems were linked; and deaths that have occurred in the system.

  • 1885: Gavel Pot explored upstream into Short Drop Cave.[18]
  • 1898: Deaths' Head Hole fully descended.[19]
  • 1898: Short Drop Cave explored and connected to Gavel Pot.[19]
  • 1899: Bull Pot of the Witches explored.[20]
A caver descending a 25-metre (82 ft) shaft in Notts Pot
  • 1928: Lost Johns' Cave first fully descended.[21]
  • 1932: Rumbling Hole first fully descended.[19]
  • 1946: Lancaster Hole – Ease Gill Caverns explorations began.[22]
  • 1946: Notts Pot explored.[23]
  • 1949: Ireby Fell Cavern explored.[24]
  • 1950: Boundary Pot explored.[22]
  • 1952: Oxford Pot opened, allowing easier access to Ease Gill Caverns.[22]
  • 1952: Top Sink, the top entrance to Ease Gill Caverns, first opened up.[22]
  • 1960: Cow Pot explored to Lancaster Hole.[22]
  • 1964: Alan Clegg died whilst diving in the Lancaster Hole terminal sump.[25]
  • 1965: Long Drop Cave fully descended.[26]
  • 1966: Bull Pot of the Witches connected to Lancaster Hole by diving, connecting the Ease Gill and Aygill drainage systems.[27]
  • 1969: Lyle Cavern, a high level fossil series, explored in Lost Johns' Cave. This was later linked to Notts II.[28]
  • 1968: Dave Brook first proposed the possibility of the Three Counties System.[7]
  • 1969: Duncan Glasfurd died as a result of a rock fall in Ease Gill Caverns.[29][30]
  • 1970: Gavel Pot fully descended.[31]
  • 1971: Earby Series explored in Lancaster Hole.[32]
  • 1975: Gavel Pot linked to Lost Johns' Cave by diving. linking two major drainage systems on Leck Fell.[33]
  • 1975: Stephen Hughes died as a result of a fall in Ireby Fell Cavern.[34]
  • 1976: Ireby Fell Cavern linked to Notts Pot by diving.[35]
  • 1978: Link Pot explored and connected with Pippikin Pot and Lancaster Hole, linking Leck Fell and Casterton Fell cave systems.[36]
  • 1980: Ian Plant died whilst diving in the upstream sump of Bull Pot of the Witches.[37]
  • 1981: Long Drop Cave connected to Death's Head Cave.[38]
  • 1982: Lost Pot, the upstream entrance to Lost Johns' Cave, explored, but then collapsed.[39]
  • 1982: John Martin died as a result of a fall in Ireby Fell Cavern.[40]
  • 1982: Large Pot explored.[41]
    Calcite formations in Witches II cave.
  • 1984: Rift Pot explored, and connected to Large Pot.[42]
  • 1985: Rumbling Hole connected to Lost Johns' Cave.[43]
  • 1985: David James drowned in Lancaster Hole.[44]
  • 1985: Notts II discovered by diving.[45]
  • 1988: Janet Barnfield, Michael Preece, and David Simpson died as a result of a rockfall in Ease Gill Caverns.[46]
  • 1989: Sylvester Pot explored and connected to Ease Gill Caverns.[47]
  • 1989: Pippikin linked to Gavel Pot by diving, connecting two important Leck Fell drainage systems.
  • 1994: Paul Lyons died as the result of a rock fall in Lost Johns' Cave.[48]
  • 1997: Michael Jeffries died as the result of a fall in Lancaster Hole.[49]
  • 1997: Witches Cave connected to Leck Beck Head and Pippikin Pot by diving.[50]
  • 2000: Howard Rothwell drowned in Lancaster Hole.[51]
  • 2000: Committee Pot dug into Notts II, allowing ready access for more intensive exploration.[52]
  • 2001: Julian Carrol and Ray Lea drowned in Ireby Fell Cavern.[53]
  • 2004: Paula Szajnowska died as the result of a fall in Notts Pot.[54]
  • 2010: Ireby Fell Cavern linked to Rift Pot, connecting caves of North Yorkshire with caves in Lancashire.[14]
  • 2011: Notts II connected to Lyle Cavern in Lost Johns' Cave, integrating two important Leck Fell drainage systems, and making the Three Counties System a reality.[15]
  • 2011: Death's Head Hole connected to Lost Johns' Cave.[55]
  • 2012: Boundary Pot connected to Ease Gill Caverns.[56]
  • 2013: Low Douk is connected to Rift Pot.[57]
  • 2020: Simon Halliday died whilst diving in Lancaster Hole terminal sump.[58]
  • 2021: First complete traverse of the Three Counties System successfully undertaken.[16]
  • 2024: North by North End Pot connected to Large Pot.[2]

Future prospects

[edit]

Although Dave Brook's vision for the Three Counties System came to fruition in 2011, there is considerable scope for extending it in both directions. To the north in Barbondale, Aygill Caverns is known to drain into Bull Pot of the Witches, but a route through the underwater passages has yet to be negotiated. This would add 2.5 kilometres (1.6 mi) to the total system.[59] Further north still, a major abandoned route in Aygill Caverns, known as New Year Passage, heads up the Barbondale valley, and may connect with other known caves.[60] To the south, explorations in Large Pot have extended the current system to within 500 metres (1,600 ft) of Kingsdale Beck.[61] Marble Steps, a major active system with large fossil fragments, could well be connected to Rift Pot. Marble Steps, some of Large Pot, and Low Douk Cave are all known to drain to Keld Head – a connection by diving would integrate both the West Kingsdale System (9 kilometres (5.6 mi) long) and the East Kingsdale System (7 kilometres (4.3 mi) long) into the system.[7]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Allshorn, Sam; Swire, Paul (2017). Northern Caves – The Three Counties System and the North-West. Leeds: High Mead. p. 7. ISBN 9781527210950.
  2. ^ a b Pearson, Frank (June–July 2024). "North by North End Pot". Descent (298): 17.
  3. ^ Gardner, John. "The Three Counties System – A List Of Entrances". Retrieved 6 June 2024.
  4. ^ "Caving Access: Three Counties System & the North West". Council of Northern Caving Clubs. Retrieved 16 December 2012.
  5. ^ Burger, Paul. "World's Longest Caves". Retrieved 6 June 2024.
  6. ^ Waltham, A. C. (1974). Limestone and Caves of North-West England. Newton Abbot: David and Charles. pp. 273–275. ISBN 0715361813.
  7. ^ a b c d Brook, Dave (September 1968). "The Three Counties System". University Speleological Association Review (3): 15–19.
  8. ^ Waltham, Tony; Murphy, Phil (2013). Waltham, Tony; Lowe, David (eds.). Caves and Karst of the Yorkshire Dales. Buxton: British Cave Research Association. p. 142. ISBN 978-0-900265-46-4.
  9. ^ Gascoyne, M.; Ford, D. C. (July 1984). "Uranium Series Dating of Speletherms, Part II Results from the Yorkshire Dales and Implications for Cave Development and Quaternary Climates" (PDF). Cave Science:Transactions of the British Cave Research Association. 11 (2): 65–84. Retrieved 24 July 2015.
  10. ^ Waltham, A. C. (1974). Limestone and Caves of North-West England. Newton Abbot: David and Charles. p. 285. ISBN 0715361813.
  11. ^ "Leck Beck Catchment Area". Natural England. Retrieved 24 July 2015.
  12. ^ Waltham, A. C. (December 1971). "Leck Fell and the Three Counties System". Journal of the British Speleological Association. VI (48): 29–30.
  13. ^ Brook, D.; Griffith, J.; Long, H.; Ryder, P. (1994). Northern Caves: The Three Counties and the North West. Skipton: Dalesman Publishing Company Ltd. pp. 76, 92. ISBN 1855680831.
  14. ^ a b "The amazing story of Adulterer's Bypass and the underground cave system connecting three counties". Lancashire Life. Retrieved 7 April 2020.
  15. ^ a b Wainwright, Martin (7 November 2011). "Potholers break through the final Three Counties link". The Guardian. Retrieved 20 July 2015.
  16. ^ a b Young, Ambrose (30 September 2021). "Heroic Thai cave rescuers complete historic feat in Cumbria". The Westmorland Gazette. Retrieved 6 October 2021.
  17. ^ Jewell, Chris (December 2021). "The Grand Traverse". Descent (283): 22–26.
  18. ^ Hastings, C. (1930). "Gavel Pot in 1885". Yorkshire Ramblers' Club Journal. 6 (19). Leeds: YRC: 60–62. Retrieved 7 October 2021.
  19. ^ a b c Cuttriss, S. W. (1922). "The Leck Fell Pot-Holes". Yorkshire Ramblers' Club Journal. 5 (15). Leeds: YRC: 60–64. Retrieved 7 October 2021.
  20. ^ YRC Committee (1900). "Club Proceedings". Yorkshire Ramblers' Club Journal. 1 (2). Leeds: YRC: 134–141. Retrieved 7 October 2021.
  21. ^ Foley, Innes (1930). "Lost Johns' Cave". Yorkshire Ramblers' Club Journal. 6 (19). Leeds: YRC: 54–59. Retrieved 7 October 2021.
  22. ^ a b c d e Eyre, J.; Ashmead, P. (March 1967). "Lancaster Hole and the Ease Gill Caverns, Casterton Fell, Westmorland". The Transactions of the Cave Research Group. 9 (2): 117–19.
  23. ^ Gemmell, A.; Myers, J. O. (1952). Underground Adventure. Clapham, Yorkshire: Dalesman Publishing Company. pp. 63–75.
  24. ^ Atkinson, F. (1949). "The Cavern. Ireby Fell. Lancashire". Cave Science – A Quarterly Review of Speleology. II (9). Settle, BSA: 21–27.
  25. ^ "CDG History 1960 – 1969". Cave diving highlights. Cave Diving Group. Retrieved 16 January 2014.
  26. ^ Hobbs, Robin (1966). "Long Drop Cave 1965". Gritstone Club Journal (2): 26–29.
  27. ^ Wooding, M. J. (July 1967). "Lancaster – Bull Pot 19 November 1966". British Speleological Society Bulletin (75): 9–10.
  28. ^ Waltham, Tony. "Discovery of Lyle Cavern High Levels in Lost John's". Happy Wanderers Cave and Pothole Club. Retrieved 20 July 2015.
  29. ^ Eyre & Frankland (1988), p. 91.
  30. ^ "Easegill Tragedy". Speleologist. 3 (19): 3. Autumn 1969.
  31. ^ Smith, B. (1970). "Gavel Pot". Northern Pennine Club Records. Retrieved 20 July 2015.
  32. ^ Latham, Brian (April 1972). "EPC '71 (Stake Pot) Series – Lancaster Hole". University of Leeds Speleological Association Review (9): 3–11.
  33. ^ "Digs and Discoveries". University of Leeds Speleological Society Review (14). August 1976.
  34. ^ Eyre & Frankland (1988), p. 195.
  35. ^ "Papard Dives to Link Notts Pot and Ireby Cavern". Descent (34): 4. August 1976.
  36. ^ "Link Pot". Northern Pennine Club. 3 (2). 1979. Retrieved 23 July 2015.
  37. ^ "Ian Plant dies in Yorkshire cave dive". Descent (45): 4. March–April 1980.
  38. ^ Brook, D.; Griffith, J.; Long, H.; Ryder, P. (1994). Northern Caves: The Three Counties and the North West. Skipton: Dalesman Publishing Company Ltd. pp. 97–98. ISBN 1855680831.
  39. ^ Shaw, Chester (1982). "Lost Pot". Northern Pennine Club Journal. 3 (3): 76–79.
  40. ^ Eyre & Frankland (1988), p. 200.
  41. ^ Edwards, G. (1982). "The Exploration of Large Pot". NPC Journal. 3 (3): 51–61.
  42. ^ Davis, B. (1985). "Rift Pot – A Brief History". Northern Cave Club Journal 'The Caver'. 5: 9–17.
  43. ^ Boothroyd, Colin (1987). "Lost John's Pot / Rumbling Hole Connection". Lancaster University Speleological Society. 4: 21. Retrieved 11 July 2015.
  44. ^ Boothroyd, Colin (January–February 1986). "David James – drowned in Lancaster". Descent (86): 7.
  45. ^ Sudell, Barry (1987). "The Notts Pot Dives". Northern Pennine Club Journal: 6–9.
  46. ^ Boothroyd, Colin (June–July 1988). "Easegill Tragedy". Descent (82): 12.
  47. ^ Brook, D.; Griffith, J.; Long, H.; Ryder, P. (1994). Northern Caves: The Three Counties and the North West. Skipton: Dalesman Publishing Company Ltd. pp. 164–166. ISBN 1855680831.
  48. ^ Monico, Paul (April–May 1994). "Lost John's fatality". Descent (117): 16.
  49. ^ Monico, Paul (August–September 1997). "Lancaster Hole fatality". Descent (137): 11.
  50. ^ Monk, Pete (ed.). Shuttleworth Pot into Witches Cave II. Council of Northern Caving Clubs. pp. 4–7.
  51. ^ "Lancaster fatality". Descent (158): 10. February–March 2001.
  52. ^ Gerrish, Rich (2009). "Committee Pot Breakthrough Dig". Red Rose Cave and Pothole Club Journal (10): 81–83.
  53. ^ Speight, Alan (April–May 2001). "Twin fatalities in Ireby Fell Cavern". Descent (159): 10.
  54. ^ "Notts Pot fatality". Descent (181): 16. December 2004 – January 2005.
  55. ^ Nunwick, Mick (April–May 2012). "Going Head to Head on Leck Fell". Descent (225): 22–23.
  56. ^ Allen, Tim (December 2012). "The Manhattan Connection". Descent (229): 43–46.
  57. ^ Allen, Tim (August–September 2013). "Connection Fever". Descent (233): 16–18.
  58. ^ Beever, Susie. "Tragedy as man dies in Yorkshire Dales underground cave diving expedition". Yorkshire Evening Post. Retrieved 6 January 2020.
  59. ^ Brook, D.; Griffith, J.; Long, H.; Ryder, P. (1994). Northern Caves: The Three Counties and the North West. Skipton: Dalesman Publishing Company Ltd. pp. 119–121. ISBN 1855680831.
  60. ^ Waltham, A. C. (December 1971). "Leck Fell and the Three Counties System". Journal of the British Speleological Association. VI (48): 31–32.
  61. ^ Pacey, Neil (February–March 2015). "Mud Mining on the Eastern Front". Descent (236): 19–22.

Sources

[edit]
  • Eyre, Jim; Frankland, John (1988). Race Against Time. Dent, Sedbergh: Lyon Equipment (Books). ISBN 0950687448.
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