Bernard, Dave Stuart and Dick worked on the 'Slurring Rock Path' (AKA Mill Path or Red Route). Tasks involved improving the stone steps up from near Gibson Mill and repairs to a stile.
Rich and RJ worked on the 'Railway Path' from Gibson Mill along the riverside, up towards Widdop Gate and then down the return route to Gibson Mill. As well as cutting back intrusive vegetation and overhanging branches, they also took the opportunity to survey parts of the path for future sessions.
Gerald and Frank worked on the muddy, precipitous 'desire lines' that form a 'back route' up to the top of 'The Crag'. This was a messy task that involved selecting the best combination of several scrambled routes and widening/installing steps as necessary. Further work is needed here pending consultation with the National Trust:- especially as an awkward rock scramble has to be negotiated.
No 'before' pictures were taken (just imagine a muddy slope and hum the opening of 'Slip slidin' away':- Paul Simon, Greatest Hits, 1977). However, here are two 'work in progress' shots of steps up a mud and shale slope. A base-layer of sandstone meant a considerable amount of 'grunt' was needed to drive pilot holes for the 'stobs'.
'Desire line' made safer by digging out, installing steps, improving the 'tread' area
and consolidating the side-banking . . . . but there could be much more to do!
