West
Vale Branch |
I am pleased to report that there has been no re-occurrence of the mindless vandalism that I reported last month. Either the “little darlings” have seen the error of their ways or maybe the prolonged wet weather has kept them at home. Unfortunately it is more likely to be the later. We still need to spend time to remove all the small stones from the grass in the Canalside Park before the spring grass cutting begins but other than that, all is back in order. The wet weather has meant that the canal is “full” at the park and between Station Road and Stainswick Lane, giving a good idea of what the canal looks like when fully restored. It does look reassuringly good, but it reminds me to bring to everyone’s attention that children should not play near water unsupervised, the consequences could be most unfortunate.
At Steppingstone Lane Bridge, our recent work party has extended the hardcore sections of the bridleway diversion to complete the section through the copse on the Bourton side and to take it to the top of the rise into the field on the Shrivenham side. Due to ground conditions, this work was virtually machine-free and the small team, although well satisfied with their efforts, were exhausted from barrowing several tons of hardcore up the sloping paths. This greatly improved surface will benefit both horses and walkers. The team is struggling to keep the water level between the dams at a low enough level to enable restoration work on the bridge itself to continue through the winter, but we do intend to try and maintain momentum.
On a different note, the presentation held at Shrivenham Bowls club on the 7th November was enjoyed by all who attended although numbers were a little disappointing. Maybe there will be another in the new year. These presentations are our way of raising awareness of the Canal. Similarly, you may have noticed that we are slowly, as funds allow, positioning signs along the Canal in this area.
For more information or to volunteer assistance please come along to one of our meetings held in the Shrivenham Bowls Club, Martens Road, on the second Wednesday of every month at 8 p.m. You will be made very welcome. For those with a computer and Internet access please visit our Branch Web Site at www.westvalecanal.fsnet.co.uk.Orph Mable - Branch Project Co-ordinator
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