This task had been on the "To Do" list for longer than it should have been!
RJ, Fred and Kasher, armed with mattocks, spades and a strimmer, made improvements to the drainage on the section of the Calderdale Way (Tod BW 019) across Whirlaw Common. The causey stones here have been underwater for months (see below) and walkers, to avoid the worst of the water, have started to create a myriad of paths through the soft rush.
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| 1. The worst section of the bridleway. |
CROWS have tackled drainage issues here in previous years so we searched for the original channels in order to remove blockages, and carry out the widening and deepening needed to direct water off the causey stones.
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| 2. Channels made through the soft rush to take water away from the track. |
Our efforts were made easier because Fred valiantly strimmed both sides of the pathway to facilitate our use of mattocks to clear (or create) the drainage channels.
Additionally, we found a semi-functioning major culvert which, once cleared, drained significant amounts of water from the track.
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| 3. RJ and Fred working near Whirlaw. |
This bridleway will need some sunny weather to dry out the residual pools of mud on either side of the causey stones. The path, however, is passable for walkers and it should not now be necessary to trample into the soft rush. However, do take care because stepping into the "goo" on either side of the route may provide an unwelcome 'surprise'!
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| 4. The exposed causey stones. The route should now start to dry out. |
Many thanks to the residents of Windy Harbour who allowed us to park thus making a long 'carry' somewhat shorter!
Today's work has been funded by Todmorden Harriers', Flower Scar Fell Race. Many thanks.
