Castleton is the only place in the world where you can find the exquisite Blue John and, as a new book on the subject is published, Vicky Turner and Gary Ridley from Treak Cliff Cavern share with us the story of how an old miner’s secret told to Vicky’s father led to an incredible discovery in 2016.

To win a signed copy of ‘Bradwell’s images of Blue John’ by Vicky Turner and Gary Ridley, just tell us why you would like a copy of the book and we will choose our two favourite responses.

We then talk to Peak District artist Caroline Chouler-Tissier as she takes us through the process of making the first Blue John window in 150 years. This stunning window was produced in collaboration with Artbox pupils, Treak Cliff Cavern and Buxton Museum and Art Galleryand it is well worth a visit to see it at the museum, along with an accompanying video by Jimmy Hyland.

Finally, Rachel Johnson of the Experiential theatre group joins us on the phone to talk about their show ‘Trapped‘, which was performed at Poole’s Cavern during Buxton Festival Fringe as part of their tour of a series of underground and other venues throughout the country. The play is inspired by the plight of 33 Chilean miners who were trapped underground for 69 days following a mine collapse in San Jose in 2010. Their story came back into the public eye this summer as the world watched the rescue mission of 12 Thai boys and their football coach who were stuck in a flooded cave for 18 days, once again reminding us of the dangers faced today by those who make a living underground.

Listen on Soundcloud here or play it below.