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The Shropshire Caving and Mining Club (SCMC) elected to organise the 2011 NAMHO conference in celebration of fifty years since the club’s formation. To mark this auspicious occasion, the club is funding the evening meal on the Sunday of the conference weekend and a special beer has been created for the event – so please ensure you test it out thoroughly! Some History Late in 1958 and into 1959, a group of friends from the Newport area of Shropshire began to explore local mines and this interest soon spread to mines and caves across the country. However, it was not until September 1961 that the ‘Shropshire Mining Club’ was officially formed. From 1964 to 1987, a thatched cottage in Church Aston, rented for five shillings (25p) a week, was used as the clubhouse where meetings were held, expeditions planned and equipment stored. Among the club’s activities were many expeditions to Wales and Derbyshire, the re-opening of the tar tunnel in Ironbridge, the saving of many mining artifacts and involvement in the establishment of the Ironbridge Gorge Museum. Current Activity The Club runs an active programme of underground trips, with typically 2-3 main trips per month. We also organise trips to caves and mines in all parts of Britain, the Isle of Man, Ireland and the Continent - basically anywhere we can get underground! 3 years ago we even had a week exploring the fascinating mining remains of the Sierra Minera of Cartagena / La Union in Spain. Click to see more pictures We usually have at least one dig underway in an effort to access workings that have been closed off by falls or neglect. The Club is a major force in the Midlands Cave Rescue Organisation, regularly participating in rescue practices and training. Meetings We hold a Club Meeting on the first Friday of every month at the British Sugar Social Club, Allscott, Telford, Shropshire at 8pm - Please get in touch before turning up in case the date or venue has changed! Conservation Members are also active in the preservation and conservation of underground and surface sites, working with other local groups and councils to protect bat habitats and sites of historical importance. Training Underground exploration can be potentially dangerous if you do not have the right equipment and skills. We offer regular training sessions and will lend you equipment for your first few trips. Subscriptions Full member: £20.00 + £16 per person BCA insurance Family: £26 plus relevant insurance Junior (under 16): £12 plus relevant insurance Subscriber: £20 (this only entitles you to receive Club publications) All enquiries to :- Mike Davies, 5 Washford Rd, Meole Village, SHREWSBURY, Shropshire SY3 9HR