Ripon features in a major TV documentary about sinkholes that is being broadcast tonight (February 2).

Mysteries of Sinkholes, produced by multi award-winning production company Curve Media, can be seen on Channel 4 at 6pm.  

It is the final episode in a three-part series that has also focused on the mysteries surrounding Stonehenge and the Loch Ness Monster.

Tonight's programme highlights the enduring fascination humanity has with sinkholes, by looking at examples in 12 countries across four continents.

Tim Flanagan, the Stray Ferret’s on-the-ground reporter in Ripon, is filmed providing the documentary makers with details of some of the city’s recent sinkhole incidents, while a local resident speaks about the way his home was slowly torn apart.

To unravel the mysteries of sinkhole formation – both natural and human-induced – Curve Media travelled to Florida’s infamous ‘Sinkhole Alley’, where more than 20,000 recorded incidents have horrified locals and to Guatemala City, where an epic 20 metre wide sinkhole swallowed up a three storey factory.

The documentary also looks at how cutting-edge technology is being employed to manage sinkhole activity.

What causes sinkholes?

The British Geological Survey says that Ripon lies in one of the most susceptible areas of the UK for sinkholes because of its Permian gypsum deposits. 

The gypsum can dissolve more quickly than surrounding limestone, leading to the creation of underground voids.

A recent high profile sinkhole problem in Ripon has been at the site of the new Jack Laugher Leisure and Wellness Centre which has meant lengthly and costly delays to the project which should be finally be completed in June this year... sinkholes permitting.