The irresistible appeal of caves is obvious from the enduring popularity of commercialized show-caves: dark, mysterious and beautiful, the hidden world of caves draws the visitor ever deeper. However, although it is 'one small step' from the concrete path to the rugged cave floor and from tourist to caver, it is a step that most are reluctant to take. Those few who do venture into the wild cave discover a world of spectacular halls, grottoes, rivers and waterfalls. Since the publication of the first edition in 1997, The Complete Caving Manual has become the definitive handbook for British cavers. This fully revised edition has been comprehensively updated and the text is complemented by an entirely new selection of colour photographs. Contents include: * A description of how caves are formed * A guide to modern caving equipment * An examination of how to plan and prepare for caving exploration * An analysis of how to identify and minimize hazards and deal with emergencies * A discussion of vertical techniques and rope work * A consideration of where to undertake caving, and how to go about discovering and exploring caves AUTHOR: Andy Sparrow began caving in 1971 and is one of Britain's most experienced cavers and instructors. He has been involved in the exploration of new cave systems in Britain and has descended several classic deep caves in Europe. Andy is also an award-winning filmmaker whose work includes 'Sold' and 'A Rock and a Hard Place'.

Andy runs a training company, Andy Sparrow Caving Services, and caveclimb.com, an equipment shop for cavers and climbers. SELLING POINTS: A comprehensive guide aimed at all those taking up caving, those who already engage in caving and their instructors Covers modern caving equipment, planning and preparation for caving exploration and identifying and minimizing hazards The first edition in 1997 became the definitive handbook for British cavers Fully revised and updated Superbly illustrated with an entirely new selection of 205 colour photographs and highly detailed diagrams Andy Sparrow is one of Britain's most experienced cavers and instructors ILLUSTRATIONS 205 colour photographs *.