A Glimmering in Darkness

Description

A Glimmering in Darkness tells the story of the birth of British cave diving through the memories of one of its founders, Francis Graham Balcombe. More than a historical account, it offers a first-hand record of the people, equipment, and determination that shaped the early years of the Cave Diving Group.

Graham Balcombe and the Origins of Cave Diving

Francis Graham Balcombe was born on 8 March 1907 in Manchester before moving to Southport. His involvement with the Scout movement introduced him to rock climbing in the Lake District. Later, while working in the Radio Branch of the Post Office Engineering Department, he met John Arthur “Jack” Sheppard.

Balcombe introduced Sheppard to climbing, and the pair quickly became accomplished mountaineers. A chance meeting with local cavers soon redirected their ambitions underground. After both men transferred to the Portishead radio station near Bristol, they began exploring the caves of the Mendip Hills. Those early expeditions laid the foundations of cave diving in Britain and eventually led to the formation of the Cave Diving Group.

Although Balcombe retired from active cave diving in 1957, he remained deeply involved with the sport. He continued supporting younger explorers, donating equipment such as a battery-powered drill for exploration beyond Far Sump in Peak Cavern. Persistent eczema led him to adopt his well-known kilt, which became one of his trademarks.

Following the death of his wife, Mavis, Balcombe cared for his sister before later renewing a relationship with his former fiancée, Ann Turner. After a short period in residential care, he returned home before becoming ill. He died in hospital on 19 March 2000 at the age of 93.

Jack Sheppard’s Contribution

Jack Sheppard played an equally important role in the early development of British cave diving. Although university studies and wartime service with the Royal Signals reduced the time he could dedicate to exploration, his contribution proved invaluable.

Sheppard established contact with Sir Robert Davis to learn more about diving equipment and breathing apparatus. He also helped organise the specialist equipment used during the pioneering Wookey Hole expeditions. His calm, methodical approach complemented Balcombe’s determination and organisational skills. Sheppard died on 14 July 2001, just sixteen months after Balcombe.

Preserving an Important Piece of Cave Diving History

Balcombe completed his memoirs in 1987. Only a small number of copies circulated, giving the manuscript an almost legendary reputation among cave divers. To mark the centenary of his birth, the decision was made to publish the work for a wider audience.

Dave Irwin provided the original electronic manuscript together with photographs from Balcombe’s personal collection and the archive of the late Bob Davies. The trustees of the Wells & Mendip Museum kindly granted permission to reproduce many of these photographs. Phil Davies, Clive Gardener, and Chris Howes also contributed images.

Editors carefully checked the manuscript against one of the few surviving printed copies owned by the late Bob Drake. Sadly, Dave Irwin died in March 2007 before publication. His advice, encouragement, and dedication played a major role in bringing this remarkable piece of cave diving history into print.