A group from Marland School, Roundswell, had the opportunity to step back in time at the Combe Martin Silver Mines in December. Combe Martin mines have been worked for nearly 1,000 years and have been nationally important during various stages in history. The silver mined from them has helped to support the monarchy on several occasions. 

There are several miles of known mine, but many of the adits (an 'adit' is a horizontal access tunnel cut into the rock and is used to access the mine shafts)  and passageways are blocked by water and debris, so only a small portion is currently accessible. 

The group were met by a couple of the Mine Society volunteers and were given a bit of background and some safety equipment (helmets and lights). They were then led into the main adit and travelled underground for several hundred metres. 

The most striking thing was the incredible formations of stalactites and calcite deposits on the ceiling and walls. Deep shafts were visible, disappearing into the darkness. At one point, we all turned our head-torches off to experience total, pitch darkness. 

The visit was fascinating, and the first time most of the pupils had been deep underground. You can find out more about the mines on Facebook by searching 'Combe Martin Silver Mines'.