Capernwray Capers - 28/06/2014

Kitting up

Today was my first diving foray outside Scotland this year. The venue was Capernwray Quarry in Lancashire, England. Capernwray is, in essence, a training site. However, it can be fun and frustrating in equal measure for the more experienced diver. I haven't visited in about two years. 

Joining me for todays capers were Captain Al, Merry L and the Vice President. Merry L doubled as my chaufeur and dive buddy for the day as we embarked on discovering all the underwater attractions.

Dive one took us down to one of the more interesting features - the plane. After a quick swim round we all took a turn swimming throught the plane before heading of to the Podsnap, the oil rig, the sump and a few other boats. Below, Merry L can be seen swimming though.

After a tasty BBQ Chicken Burger in the centre cafe Dive 2 was to take us to the Diving Bell. However, en route we got split up and while Captain Al and the Vice President went on to enjoy a gnome-tastic dive, Merry L and I headed on to the more comical exhibits - Lord Lucan, Shergar, the Devil, Thunderbird 4 and a few wee boats. 

After some more snacks Merry L and I decided to do a third dive, while Captain Al and the VP opted to call it a day. Our 'quarry' on this occasion was to be the legendary Holy Grail of Capernwray, the mysterious Pig Gnomes. We found them. I never photographed them. Nor shall I reveal what we found, in case someone else wishes to seek them out for themself. However, it's safe to some will love them and others will hate them.

Towards the end of the dive I successfully snatched defeat from the jaws of victory with some dodgy compass readings. I surfaced with 70 bar to find myself at the wrong side of the quarry. Cue long surface swim back.

Great fun, great company and another three dives in the log book.

Fast Ed couldn't be there today, but I think there's a likeness.

Merry L riding Shergar

Shergar

Merry L working off the toastie

Perch

The VP swims through

Preparing to land

Swim round