FoPV Work Morning Roundup - Thursday 25th August 2026

Lyndon
2 days ago
2 min read

Hi all, our task was the restoration of the dead hedge adjoining the bridleway above the hibernaculum, which had been systematically dismantled to allow a short cut through to Forge dam. It was a pleasant day but quite muggy which seemed to encourage a swarm of flies. Maybe it was just me.

We were pleased to welcome new volunteer Rob, especially as he is tall. Being young and strong also helps of course.

The reason for the dead hedge is to protect a line of hawthorn whips which had been planted 2 or 3 years ago until they become mature enough to form a natural barrier. They had become buried under the debris but careful removal of the wreckage revealed that they were still intact, albeit a bit leggy due to the lack of light.

The team set to with a will (as usual) and cleared the surrounding area so it was easier to work and we could avoid trampling the hawthorn. All of the loose branches were woven back into place and the foraging gang wandered far and wide collecting more really substantial branches to make the hedge as strong as possible.

We also collected large amounts of holly which was added to the bridleway side to discourage climbers. The finished hedge is now 6 feet tall and hopefully will be a suitable deterrent.

Finally Chris cut back the brambles and other foliage which had crept over the path on the dam side.

A big thank you to Mandy for her wonderful gooey chocolate Krispy cakes, we had to have 2 each!

Many thanks to the team for a great morning’s work.

The next work morning is on Thursday 8th September. An email will be sent out nearer the time with details.

A Selection of photos from the work morning

The broken hedge smothering the hawthorn whips