A dingy sort of day, but the rain held off while Mick and Neil M. went to follow up a report of a defective bridge at Kilnhurst. The bridge crosses a stream just at the bottom of Badger Wood, close to the new housing, before ascending the CROWS steps (in excellent condition) and leading steeply up through the wood towards Higher Longfield (Footpath Todmorden 160).
We could immediately see that there were real problems here. Two cross-treads were missing, another broken, and the whole bridge was sagging to one side.
Closer examination showed that the lower-side stringer was rotten and broken at one end. The middle stringer, also, was completely rotten at that end.
A large-scale renovation is clearly needed. As a temporary measure to allow walkers to cross in safety, we levered up the lower-side stringer and supported the broken end securely on stone. We fitted four new cross-treads and brushed away moss and leaves. Finally, we measured up in preparation for the larger-scale work that will be required. This must be a very damp and shady location most of the year, so it's no wonder that rot sets in. Many thanks to the lady in a nearby house for her kind offer of tea!
With time to spare, we followed the path upwards as far as the stile, identifying minor works that would keep walkers at a comfortable distance from steep drops. Then we took a drive along Lumbutts Road and Inchfield Road, inspecting signage at the junctions of the many rights-of-way as we passed. Most signs were where they should be, but some were missing or on the ground. One square-section fingerpost had turned 90 degrees and was pointing down through impenetrable scrub!
🎄🎄🎄 A very Happy Christmas to all CROWS volunteers and supporters. 🎄🎄🎄
