THE MP for Skipton has gone underground to join the Cave Rescue Organisation for its annual training exercise.

Julian Smith, MP for Skipton and Ripon, joined the Clapham-based rescuers in White Scar Cave near Ingleton, where they were carrying out a practice drill.

The MP observed the work the volunteers have to do every year to ensure their first aid training is up-to-date so they can assist those who get into trouble in the Yorkshire Dales.

Mr Smith said: “I was pleased to be able to show my continued support for the excellent work of the Cave Rescue Organisation by joining them for their annual first aid training exercise.

“The group’s voluntary team help keep residents and visitors to the Yorkshire Dales safe whether they are exploring the countryside or the network of caves underground.

“On a wet and cold night under the Yorkshire Dales, the exercise showed how much time and effort the volunteer team have to put in to ensuring they are available to help those who get into trouble.”

The CRO was originally formed in 1935. By the Millennium, it had attended 1756 incidents, including 605 cave and mine incidents, 569 mountain and fell rescues, 73 climbing accidents and 354 animal rescues.