Fishpond Wood rides again: 24-10-2017

24^th OCTOBER

Apparently, in the USA,  24th October is given over to "National Make a Difference Day", the largest national day of community service. Now, the NCVs probably weren't aware of this when they woke up this morning but, they managed to make a real difference in Fishpond Wood when they returned there this week. In spite of the soggy wet morning they worked hard to continue clearing the invading rhododendrons. You know the score - loppers, bow saws and matches at the ready....

"Where are the matches?"
Graham was (as usual) appointed fire starter in charge.

It looked promising at first.

But the promising start took an age to get going. 
However - there's no smoke without fire.

The NCVs did not take an age to get started.
When faced with the rhodies on the slope above 
them they soon began to make an impact.

Firewood sorters processed the brash whilst awaiting a blaze.

Ah! That's more like it.
A post-lunch inferno developed as an obliging multi-directional 
wind whipped up a cracking blaze.

An early faller in the slimy conditions.
What would be best? A sponge down with a 
damp cloth or a power hose?

Breaks were taken under the "shelter" of the trees.

Thanks to Sally's epic cake making day the NCVs were 

treated to no fewer than a choice of three.
Cheers Sally!! A sight to lift the rather damp spirits.

And there you have it - a slope clear of rhodies. 
A great achievement everyone!

Additionally, a big difference was made by a smaller group of three NCVs who went off to help stone masons Joe Hayton and Karl Sierevogel (an ex-heritage skills student) install a ‘community stone carving’, on the slope up to Cold Stones Cut near Greenhow. According to Tom:
"The conditions were atrocious - strong wind and rain. We mixed mortar to lay on the prepared bed so that the jigsaw sculpture could be arranged and set. Jan saved the day by devising a makeshift fence post and turf barrier to stop the whole lot slowly sliding down the hill." 

Phil shovels on the mortar.

Gradually the jig-saw is assembled.

The arches within the picture take shape - 
and stay put,thanks to Jan's creative thinking.

The salubrious dining conditions of Greenhow.

Note to James - can you get on your sun dancing clogs and do the necessary performance before next Tuesda? No more rain next week please!!