And the end of another section.

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It was bitey cold this morning with a good frost, and the sun sitting low in the sky like a search light at the Stalag Luft III camp from WW2.

But the cold didn’t deter seven of us superheroes. Mark, Andrew, Martin, Ian, Dave, Reece, and Paul, and we had but one job…

We needed to get to the Potford Dam bridge, which is the end of this section. The plan, which is in the September Jobs tab above, shows that we are right where we need to be, and we still have the spare month of February for any over-run, or a final sweep through, before the bird nesting season starts in March 2026.

This last 150 metres or so has been a bit neglected in previous years, really due to a lack of manpower. However, last year we made some decent scallops in the scrub and had varying success with wildflowers.

Today, we pushed it out a bit further and got rid of the overhanging tree branches.

We also tried to trim the top of the scrubby bramble off so that we have a clear view of Lawford Heath to the sides. The further people can see ahead of, and around themselves, the more relaxing the trail becomes.

This thing when fully extended is an absolute beast!! It helps you to discover muscles that you never knew existed…

At half-time, we broke for a much-needed slurp of hot coffee and a festive mince pie.

Possibly breaking out a little too early with the Christmas cheer, but they were just on their sell-by date, so I felt that my hand was forced somewhat.

Well, that’s my excuse, and I’m sticking to it!

The end result…

Lastly, we litter-picked the whole southern section.

Not bad for a mile of path, and a lot of the litter is stuff we are uncovering as we push the scrub back.

Next week we start on the worst bit. The Bear Bridge to the Underpass. Lots of overhang and deep in cutting, I’m sure we will smash it with the current momentum that we have.

Fungi Feature

As its name suggests, the beefsteak fungus looks just like raw meat! When it is young, it looks like a tongue poking out of a tree stump, but as it matures it starts to resemble a raw steak. It grows on oak and sweet chestnut.

Scientific name: Fistulina hepatica

How to identify: A red semi-circular bracket fungus with an inflated edge that flattens as it matures. To the touch it is moist or sticky.

Where to spot: Woodland

When to spot: Late summer to autumn

Did you know? This fungus can cause a rot inside the tree it grows on, turning the wood dark brown.

Next one is this Friday on the Dunchurch Bridleway trail, and then it’s chocks away as we sledge fully into the Christmas season.

Until next time!

Paul