Eight Swiss tourists trapped in a flooded cave in eastern France have been rescued after a four-day ordeal.
All are safe but exhausted.
The eight amateur explorers, seven Swiss students and a teacher on a confidence-building trip, were located yesterday in one of two cavities known to have air pockets, about 265ft from the entrance to the cave.
Rescuers had installed 10 giant pumps and used small explosives to drain water from the cave at Goumois. Emergency helicopters and ambulances stood by. Officials said there was less of a concern of hypothermia because the cavers were able to keep dry.
All were covered in mud and some cried when they reached the surface, shortly before sunset. Rescuers had waited for water levels inside the cave drop enough so the tourists' heads would be above water during the evacuation.
Dozens of rescue workers applauded as the first group - three young women - left the dank and dark cave. They were immediately followed by the five men making up the group.
The cavers were wrapped in blankets to keep them warm, as medical workers rushed to assist them. They had gone into the cave near the French-Swiss border on Wednesday despite warnings of bad weather.
The cave is considered ideal for beginners. Though it is not deep, the cave wends its way over 375 metres. The group were from the Social Workers College of Zurich and had undertaken the tour to help develop their ability to face challenges.
PA