TODMORDEN - off Knotts Road (session 2)

 Knotts Road - tough steps!

Ideal conditions again for Ian V and Frank H to work on the short section of 'desire line' footpath that links Knotts Road (opposite Ivy Cottage) with the track (Todmorden 086) that goes through the lower section of Knotts Wood. This patch of land (as do several others in the area) falls under the 'umbrella' of Heath Charity Lands and are in the sole trusteeship of Calderdale Council.

Today's task was to install two marker posts along the start of this useful path and to continue with the tricky and arduous work of step construction on the more precipitous sections. It is a work in progress! 

The work is funded by Calderdale Highways. Many thanks .

The detail

1. Markerposts

Ian installing one of the two low markerposts on the start section of this path. Fortunately the holes had been dug last week (thanks, Kasher) so this job was the easiest of the day . . . and the posts are vertical!

2. Steps

Mmm! A different proposition; steep ground, many minor rocks, several boulders (one massive) and multiple tree roots made for slow but energy sapping progress.

One of last week's steps (by Frank's right foot) has been more securely anchored in place with a wooden diagonal peg behind the riser and a traditional, but short, stob in front. Work is just starting on the first full step of the day. Sweat is already flowing!

The step just visible in front of Frank's left foot will need to be made slightly higher because a massive protruding boulder (the tip of which is barely visible!) was immovable. Extra height stobs have been fitted behind the existing riser to accept a suitable length/height of timber. A largish stone is now being barred into a position where it will act as revetment.

. . . after more of the same . . . 

End of session picture, in a somewhat steamy location, shows the flight of steps curving gracefully (well almost) upwards. Step four, with the protruding stobs, is the one that will need an extra section of rail.

One (or perhaps) two more steps will be required to get to the point where the slope becomes less steep and takes a turn to the left as it rises towards the track which is footpath Todmorden 086. Easy work for next week's CROWS gang? Mmm . . . perhaps!