Wednesday 6 October 2021

BLACKSHAW HEAD: Daisy Bank Clough (below Lane Side Farm)

 Daisy Bank Clough (below Lane Side Farm): pole-opolis

A stunning South Pennine day for Mick and Frank H to install marker poles and posts along the rights-of-way that criss-cross Daisy Bank Clough. 

It was a fine example of the 'division of labour'!
Mick, in the role of Sherpa, carries loads (and loads . . . and loads) of poles or posts dumping them at various points across the moor. 
Frank, in the role of installer, follows with post-hole spade, lump hammer and ultra-heavy bar.

The ground was not very amenable but 11 poles and 2 posts (with waymarks) were dug and/or hammered into place.

This 'division of labour' may have produced maximum efficiency but by the end of the session it had also produced maximum weariness . . . it was just a question of who was the more weary!
However a day of magnificent views, was well worth a few aching muscles . . . 



The South Pennines at its best ... and the marker pole isn't bad either!

These poles should help to guide walkers across terrain which, even in good conditions, can be navigationally challenging. The paths contain 'hidden' features - tiny stone bridges across streams, buried causey stones and chiselled waymarks - all evidence of significant historical usage . . . and a delight for the observant visitor. 

Today's work was funded by Blackshaw Head Parish Council.