This week saw the NCVs working at a new venue, albeit a very old one. It was the ancient woodland above Low Laithe, where large quantities of invasive holly need removing. This is a job the NCVs relish - lots of cutting, dragging and dead hedging, even though it was on the prickly side. This was evidenced by a turnout of no fewer than 15, despite the wet weather forecast.
Take a look below to see them in action.
This is the job that was awaiting them.
And this is how they left the woodland
at the end of the afternoon.
Hang on - where's all that holly gone?
Don't worry - it's still all there.
It's hiding in plain sight.
That's it Andy - you can place the
last log on the top of that dead hedge.
Of course - these hedges didn't
just materialise out of thin air.
The holly needed a certain
amount of coaxing...
...before it agreed to mobilise itself downhill.
Once in the right place it was pinned
into place using poles created
by master stake makers...
...and then squashed into position
by the master holly squishers.
Here's another good hedge topper.
Break times for the workers
were comfortable, if somewhat damp.
The landowners had provided
a luxury bathroom for NCVs' use.
Unfortunately Sarah managed to
disconnect the plumbing.
There was water all over the patio.
Ken considered putting in a bid
for this bijou holiday home.
It was a bit of a tight fit but he was
quite happy watering the window box.
Liz gave a guided tour of the
site of the old millpond high above.
It used to feed the nearby
mill down by the river.
The water was held back by this 12' wall,
which is still in good condition.
Time to go home and deal with
your wet, muddy gear!!
