In the jungle!
Today saw a return to a path which was initially visited on the 12th May. On that occasion we cut-back overhanging tree branches and replaced rotten waymark posts. However, during this task we discovered a badly overgrown and rotten set of steps winding down the steep bank to join the Calderdale Way link path at Staups Mill. The task for today's team of Frank, Ian, Jerry and Angus was to repair these steps.
The section circled in blue is where the steps are located.
The longish downhill trek to the worksite was made easier by the owner of New Laith farm who allowed us to off-load our kit at the bottom of his yard and to park off-road. Many thanks.
As with the original work, today's session was funded by Blackshaw Head Parish Council. Many thanks.
Two images showing taken on 12th May. The first is a downhill view, the second an uphill view. The original decaying steps are in there somewhere - it's going to be a day of jungle warfare!
Ah, there they are. Visible . . . . but rotten!
About a dozen steps, a mixture of wooden and stone constructions, wind their way up the steep banking. The worst of the steps were in the upper section of the path which at this point was narrow, cut into the bank and had steep slopes (one up and one down) on either side. Working space was restricted and a good sense of balance a useful asset!
Frank at work. Bottom riser in place and revetment secured to define the line of the flight.
Ian and Jerry working on the top step with riser and side-revetment being positioned.
The bottom half of the flight was rebuilt with an extra step. This gave narrower tread areas but created an easier climb. This was not possible on the steeper upper section where two original stone steps had to be rebuilt.
Good team work in a tricky location.
Bottom section of four new steps and one old (but sound) original step blending neatly with
the upper section which will be a mixture of new wooden steps and re-built stone steps.
End of session: i) On the left, the bottom section. ii) On the right the upper section
(Perspective is deceptive. Verticals are vertical and horizontals are horizontal!
Fine fillings were added where needed and the bank area landscaped before the trek
back to the vehicle. No timber to carry this time . . . but it's uphill all the way!
