New Padlock Combination at Fairy Cave Quarry
From January 1st 2021 the combination for the entrance gate to Fairy Cave Quarry will be changed. The new combination will be available from the major Mendip caving clubs and Fairy Cave Quarry Management Committee. A reminder that the combination must not be passed on to non cavers/climbers since the quarry owners do not give permission for general access and doing so may risk future access to the quarry. Please also use clean hands when handling the padlock, we have very occasionally had problems with the padlock due to ingress of grit, but these have been quickly resolved.
Due to the enclosed nature of the caves within the quarry warden led trips are currently suspended. Other caves within the quarry remain open provided cavers abide by the current Government regulations etc. in particular with regard to the travel guidelines and numbers/households. However, as of 26th December the quarry is in Tier 3 and this effectively closes the quarry to all but those that live within the immediate vicinity of the quarry until restrictions are lifted. When restrictions are lifted please also bear in mind that it is not just a question of “are caves indoors or outdoors?” but more a question of “is the particular cave more like an indoor or outdoor environment?” from a Covid19 point of view.
As in the previous statement:
It is advised that any recommendation and advice from the Government, BCRC & BCA are followed along with the following:-
It is recommended that you use a hand sanitiser before and after handling padlocks and gates.
It is important to minimise risks as much as possible, therefore cave within your capability. Although MCR are operational it may take longer for a callout response from MCR and other emergency services.
To reduce the risk of meeting other cavers underground, bearing in mind the restricted nature of the caves in FCQ, it is suggested that a discrete note be put on the dashboard of parked vehicles with just the name of cave (or cave initials) and possibly the intended route (do not put times etc). It is recommended that you have a plan “B” if you are likely to meet other cavers underground.
Ash dieback is affecting trees throughout the Mendip area including in and around the quarry and car park. This can seriously impact on the strength and reliability of even large trees in particular during and after windy conditions. An inspection of the ash trees will be carried out in the near future.
Fairy Cave Quarry Management Committee
27th Dec 2020