Falmouth student documents the eccentric world of Derbyshire cavers
31 July 2025
Eldon Pothole Club at Peakshill Farm, 1971
Meet Jon Pemberton, a student on Falmouth University’s Photography BA(Hons) (Online) course, whose latest project dives deep (literally) into the hidden world of underground exploration.
Specialising in portrait photography, Jon has turned his lens on the Eldon Pothole Club, a historic caving group based in Derbyshire. Through a mix of archival material and contemporary photography, he captures the spirit of a community that’s been pushing the limits of adventure since 1957. We caught up with Jon to learn more about his project and how studying online has helped shape his creative journey.
Could you tell us about your project and what drew you to document the Eldon Pothole Club?
As part of the Innovate module on the online Photography degree, I chose to specialise in portraiture, the area of photography which excites me the most and one I'd like to progress in. My project focuses on the Eldon Pothole Club, a Derbyshire based caving club steeped in history. I've been fortunate enough to listen to countless tales of their so called 'glory days' and all the wild adventures these pioneers endured since they formed in 1957. A book has yet to be written on the Eldon but perhaps my project could act as a starting place.
Can you describe the story you set out to tell through your photography?
My project gives a brief insight into the history of the Eldon Pothole Club and celebrates its humble beginnings. The club have been exploring caves around the world for almost 70 years, attracting a group of eccentrics to the sport. Many of these characters can be described as odd, yet their sheer determination and boldness has produced some of the finest underground discoveries of the 20th century.
Using archival images and reports, coupled with modern day portraits of the original team, I aimed to document this anarchic bunch and attempt to transcend the dark, tight spaces the cavers occupy underground.
How has the online degree helped you shape your approach to documentary photography?
Falmouth’s online Photography degree has helped me shape my approach to documentary photography by opening my mind to different techniques and styles. I have become more creative, better at making decisions and now have a broader understanding of all genres. The tools I've learned on the course have given me the confidence to competently make documentary images in the field.
What led you to choose to study Photography with Falmouth University?
Being able to complete the degree online was what led me to choose to study Photography at Falmouth University. Balancing part-time study with a full-time job was the only feasible path for me given my current commitments. Also, Falmouth University is well-regarded, especially for its photography courses, having a strong reputation for creative excellence and entrepreneurial success.
Were there specific aspects of the course that influenced your decision to apply?
Flexibility was the key factor in my decision to study at Falmouth University. Being able to watch pre-recorded lectures on my lunch break and listen to reading material and podcasts during my evening runs was a game changer. This approach makes the workload far more manageable and avoids the stress of cramming everything in after a full day at work.
Did you have any reservations about studying an online degree, and how has the reality compared?
I had reservations about studying an online degree, mainly with fitting the workload around a full-time job. In reality, studying and working full-time hasn't been anywhere near as challenging as I’d initially thought. The workload can be high at times but it's manageable and I've really enjoyed the Photography course so far. I've made some great friends within my cohort; friendships I hope will last a long time and my eyes have been opened far more than anything I would've researched alone.
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