A dramatic underground rescue operation unfolded in North Wales after a zip line snapped, plunging a caver onto rocks within a historic slate mine complex. The adventurer was subsequently airlifted to hospital following a multi-agency emergency response.
Complex Rescue Operation at Croesor Mine
The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon within the Eryri Croesor-Rhosydd complex, near Blaenau Ffestiniog. This location, renowned among caving enthusiasts for its challenging "through-route" between twin quarries, features visitor-installed aids including ropes, suspension bridges, and zip wires to navigate its subterranean lakes and chambers.
Emergency services received an alert from North Wales Police around 3pm, prompting the deployment of the North Wales Cave Rescue Organisation and the South Snowdonia Search and Rescue Team. The casualty's location deep within the mine necessitated a full stretcher extraction, with the Coastguard rescue helicopter providing critical assistance at the mine entrance.
Helicopter Extraction to Hospital
A spokesperson for the North Wales Cave Rescue Organisation confirmed that while the casualty had managed to reach the Rhosydd entrance with assistance from colleagues, further progress required professional intervention. "The helicopter was duly dispatched to collect the casualty who was then flown to Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor," the representative stated.
The rescue mission concluded around 8pm after team members ensured the safe return of the casualty's party to their vehicles at Tanygrisiau. This operation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by emergency services at what is reportedly the most frequently rescued underground location in North Wales.
Safety Concerns at Popular Adventure Site
The Croesor-Rhosydd complex, often described as an "epic adventure" featuring obstacles like the "chamber of horrors" and "bridge of death," attracts experienced cavers equipped with climbing knowledge. However, the informal installation of equipment by visitors and the complex layout, which some compare to "underground snakes and ladders," raises significant safety questions.
Local caving enthusiasts have expressed concern about the potential for tragedy. One Llandudno-based adventurer told reporters, "This through-route in my opinion is a disaster waiting to happen. I'm certainly never in favour of access restrictions, but it's only going to be a matter of time before the call-out is to a body recovery."
Precautions for Underground Explorers
Authorities emphasise that the route is suitable only for those with appropriate equipment and experience. Standard safety advice for such expeditions includes leaving detailed itineraries and timings with a responsible third party to facilitate rescue coordination if necessary.
While rescue call-outs decreased slightly last year following a busy 2024, this incident underscores the inherent risks of exploring disused mines, even with installed aids. The community continues to debate the balance between adventure access and visitor safety in these historic underground landscapes.
