15,000 year old stalactite in Yorkshire cave could finally be repaired, experts say

A damaged 15,000 year old stalactite in one of Yorkshire’s most celebrated caves may be able to be repaired using modern techniques, experts have said.

The Pillar, which is made up of thirteen stalactites, is one of the first sights that visitors see when they enter Ingleborough Cave in the Yorkshire Dales.

The structure would have been in perfect condition when the cave was first explored by James Farrar in 1837, experts believe.

But one of the stalactites was damaged at least seventy years ago, with little hope it could ever be repaired, until now.

Advances in technology and, most particularly, 3D printing, are now opening up exciting new possibilities when it comes to the restoration of certain cave formations.

John Cordingley, a guide at the cave and experienced caver himself, said: “Ever since I came to work at the cave I've pondered on how the Pillar might one day be repaired.

“As a caver I've been involved in cementing broken stalactites together several times over the years.

“We have good techniques for this nowadays and when the repairs naturally become coated with new calcite they often become invisible.

“But creating a missing piece from scratch using photographic evidence from long ago is a much greater challenge.

“We're taking the time to consult with other cavers who have experience with stalactite repair to work out the best method for recreating the missing piece of The Pillar.”

He is being joined by fellow caver Richard Walters and the site’s manager Ben Redhead in his attempts.

Ben Redhead has worked hard to research and source original photos of the cave and, most particularly, of the pillar before it was damaged.

These images will be a key element in ensuring accuracy of replication and restoration.

Before any work can begin there will be a process of consultation with Natural England to obtain consent to do the work as the cave is an important Site of Special Scientific Interest.