"IN DARKEST COBHAM'AfRICA" continued

... IN DARKEST COB'HAMFRXKA:-

"Our two intrepid explorers standing at the entrance to the Great Surrey Gypsum Mine, whose mysterious galleries they are about to enter in an attemp to penetrate their furthest recesses." Translation: Mr Jack Chinn and Sir George Pollock, Group Member and Hon _Fellow, standing in the main chamber of the Grotto at Painshill Park, Cobham, ·Surrey. The roof of this chamber collapsed many years ago, and the archeological clearing operation involved the collection and remqval of over a ton of gypsum crystals, the mineral used to create the glittering effect inside. Mr Chinn and Sir George are making an audio-visual programme on 'Archeology at Painshill Park' for schools, colleges and anyone else interested in learning about the work of the Park Trust during the past 3-4 years. This work is an essential preliminary to . ·the restoration of the .buildings in this· exquisite 18th Century landscaped garden.

Mr Jack Chinn photographing the remaining gallery in the Grotto at Painshill Park which is at present undergoing restoration by the Painshill Park Trust. The Park can be visited by parties by prior arrangement with the Trust: contact the Painshill Park Trust, Sandown House, l High Street, ESHER, Surrey.