THE prosperity of a remote area of China could be improved - thanks to the efforts of 14 members of the Craven Pothole Club.

They have just spent four weeks in the Guilin area - close to the Vietnam border - investigating local potholes with a view to identifying a potential show cave.

"The Chinese are making a big push towards tourism at the moment, and a show cave could bring revenue into the poorer areas," explained club member Tracey Beasley.

Working with the Karst Institute, the group found several potential sites. One is thought to be the third largest chamber in China - big enough to house three Wembley Stadiums.

"We are now putting all our reports together to send back to China," said Tracey, who lives in Hellifield and is a teacher at Skipton's Parish Church School.

The cavers also had the opportunity to tour around, and in one village, a pig was killed in their honour.

"Often we were the first Westerners they had ever seen, and we were treated as exalted guests. We were on television every night, and had our photographs taken for the local newspapers," said Tracey.

Their hosts also organised several school visits, where hardened cavers ended up doing the hokey-cokey with the children!

"It was an amazing experience," added Tracey, who was accompanied on her travels by Spot the Dog - the parish school's mascot.

He has travelled all over the world with staff and pupils - and was given a warm welcome by Chinese youngsters. "They were quite fascinated," said Tracey.

Back home, she will recount her experiences at a special assembly at the Parish Church School today (Friday).

The expedition was part of the China Caves project, and was organised as a prelude to the pothole club's 75th anniversary celebrations.

"We have not had a major expedition outside Europe for some time, and we thought that as it is our 75th anniversary next year, we should do something a little different," said Tracey.

The team ranged seasoned explorers to the club's youngest member, Michael Bottomley, who celebrated his 18th birthday out there. Team leader was Kevin Gannon, who lives in Farnhill.