The gaping void, thought to be the result of mine workings deep beneath the surface, is just a stone’s throw from a couple’s farmhouse.
It was three times smaller when it was first discovered on Thursday morning, at Cowshill, in the rural area of Weardale, by Durham University academic Sam Hillyard, but more earth has since collapsed.
Sam, 39, had been out shooting rabbits with her black Labrador Jack and was returning to her home, Burtree Pastures, when she noticed the 30ft hole.
Overnight, the hole sank further to reveal an abyss. And it is feared rain forecast for over the Bank Holiday may see it become larger still.
Mr Hensby, 71, who lives in Cowshill, near Bishop Auckland, County Durham, said: 'I am not sure where this will end. 'The hole is still growing. It is astonishing. If you could have heard the bangs, crashes and rumbles when it first happened, you would understand how terrifying it was.
Some council experts came to inspect the hole yesterday but we are not sure what can be done. We are crossing our fingers it doesn't get much bigger.
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