Saturday was a landmark day for all those involved in the creation of the woodland walk at Pump Hill. The path system is finished. The earth sides of the path at the north entrance have been bolstered up with spare stone from the former footpaths laid out by Dorothy Littlewood. Some of her paths can still be found amongst the planted areas away from the paths.
The dirt spoil from the footpath excavation has been spread and raked around the site, bulbs replaced and the first hedging plants dug in. Already signs of spring are appearing with bluebells, daffs and snowdrops putting their heads up. We heard lots of birdsong as we worked and are hoping that they will all return this year.
At this point I would like to thank all those who worked so selflessly on this project, either with gifts or labour:
Robert S for funding the stone walling by Ian P in creating the two main openings; for the stone and membrane material, the removal of green waste, the removal of a large stump from the wall shared with the school and the rebuilding of that wall. Also for his knowledge of plants, insects and general interest in the project.
John P for digging out the soil near the two new entrances, raking it back into the site and removing a couple of large stumps that blocked the route. His expertise using Maurice F”s digger was remarkable to watch. Practically danced around the site.
Maurice F for donating the fabulous gate posts at the two new openings. For his and his assistant Martin’s time in bringing them to site and inserting them into the prepared holes dug out by John P. Robert G for his donation of the stone step.
The Community Safety team who spent most of the last two weeks digging out the paths, laying membrane and three 13 ton loads of stone. The lads and gals worked hard and diligently, with great spirit, always polite and helpful. They were supported by Mel and Elaine their supervisors for the project. Altogether they donated 415 hours to Pump Hill. We could not have done it without them.
Jon M and Charles B for stone walling the retaining cheeks at the squeeze entrance.
Everyone who attended clean up days and gave up spare time when available to pitch in and deal with brambles, nettles, general brush and the baking gals who provided delicious goodies for the workers.
Peter E of Alsop Moor who repaired the gate going into the side access drive.
Jonathan Butt at Derbyshire County Council for accepting our application for assistance and being very helpful in ensuring everything was in order.
Stephen Clay from the RRP for providing the manpower and supervisors.
On behalf of The Friends of Pump Hill and Parwich Parish Council,
THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROSITY AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT
Lynette C
And last but certainly not least we owe great thanks to Lynette for her tireless enthusiasm and skills
I walked past Pump Hill last weekend and may I congratulate everyone involved. It looks wonderful and has transformed that part of the village.
Sadly, Lucie-Clare and I do not get chance to spend enough time in Parwich as I have started a new business in London.
To make a contribution, could we provide a bench so that people can sit in the area to enjoy it more?
Please let me know if this is of interest.