Ryburn - Return to the footpath above Clough House Farm below Krumlin.

On a typical March day of sunshine interrupted by snow flurries and sleet, Jerry and Angus returned to this short footpath to install steps on the steepest sections where access was difficult. As with the work done last week, this was funded by donations made directly to CROWS. Many thanks to all who have contributed to make this work possible.

Today's work sites are circled in blue on the map.

Firstly, we tackled the lower part of the path where it leads off  Clough House Lane. This was particularly stony as it started through what was an old wall. Rather than fit wooden steps, we used available materials and created a short flight of stone steps.

The start of the path - now a bit easier with these stone steps.

Working our way up the path, we replaced the previously cut, but temporary, earth steps with wooden ones. The majority of these were where the path climbed out of the wooded section and into a small patch of grazing land. 

First wooden step replacing the previous earth step.

Jerry starting on the main flight of steps at the foot of the slope.

Angus working on the upper section where the path exits into the field.

Fortunately the ground was reasonable soft, albeit a bit slippery. As to be expected in a woodland, there were plenty of tree roots to contend with but despite this we made steady progress. The shelter provided by the wood against the cold wind and blustery showers was most welcome. 

After about three hours we had completed the wooden steps, survived a nasty shower and were being treated to the appearance of a spectacular rainbow.

 

The completed flight of steps up through the woodland.

As we returned to the car we were greeted by a spectacular rainbow!