On a blustery day under threatening skies, Ian, Jerry, Guy and Angus headed to a footpath leading off Height Road, just below Hebden Bridge Golf Club.
At the top of the field the path had been badly churned up by cattle then, as it enters the trees, it levels out before falling steeply towards the valley bottom. This was the section, made treacherous by footfall and rainfall, that required attention.
This route is much used by Calderdale Fell Runners whose kind donation has made today's work possible. Many thanks.
Today's work area is circled in blue.
Views of the steep section, looking down (on the left) and upwards (on the right).
Firstly we had the challenge of staying upright as we negotiated the muddy top section to carry tools and materials to the worksite. Once there, Jerry and Guy worked up from the foot of the slope whilst Ian and Angus started at the top. It was less blustery in the trees but the skies were still heavy with rain.
First step in place at the foot of the slope.
After an hour, we were making good progress and . . . still no sign of the rain!
By coffee time, we started to back-fill the steps.
With ten steps in place, we backfilled the voids using stone and earth scavenged from the surrounding wood. Given the extent of the slope we estimate a further six/eight steps will be needed to complete the job.
Views from below and above showing the work completed today.
If you are using this path in the next week or so, please take extra care on the section between the upper and lower flights of steps. We will be back to complete the task in due course.
