A Mild Winter Worky Day

Sunday, December 8th 2019

Compared to last year's December Winter Worky Day, this year was very mild. There was a fantastic turnout with plenty of keen and willing volunteers.

The task was to clear Gorse from the moorland as it had almost taken over the land adjacent to the Bluebell bank. Thanks to Ian and his chainsaw, light work was made of the larger trunks and progress was quick.

With so much unwanted Gorse, the only way forward was to burn it. Although it burns well, it always creates an alarming amount of smoke!

So much so that Gerry had to inform the guard room as it was blowing in their direction!

It was hard work battling against the wind and dragging the cut brash to the fire.

As the day went on so the distance to carry the spiky branches increased. A bridge crossing and several canine 'helpers' made life even more difficult!

The only time when the dogs were not in the way was when they were distracted by food!

They weren't fussy either!

By the end of the day, the moor looked very different and one of the moorland streams was once again visible from the path.

The removal of the Gorse cover revealed several interesting finds such as this ancient Willow tree…

...some Hart's Tongue Fern…

...and finally, some fascinating White Brain fungus.

Thank you to all of the volunteers who helped to achieve this huge job, it wouldn't have been possible without you. A reminder that Winter Worky Days at Foxglove are family friendly and the next one will be on the 4th January.

These events are fun and free however, booking is essential as a hot meal is provided in return for your efforts. Further details can be found on the events page.

(0) Comments:

There are no comments for this blog post yet. Why not start the discussion? - use the form below:

Back to Top

Help Support Foxglove

Friends of Foxglove

The Friends of Foxglove Covert is for those individuals, families and organisations who would like to support the reserve through an annual membership subscription. Friends receive a regular newsletter and invitations to attend our various activities and social events.

More Details

Upcoming Events

Owl Pellet Discovery

Monday 26th July 2021 | 10.00am start

Come and learn all about the different owl species that live in North Yorkshire. Find out what they eat by dissecting their pellets and identifying the contents. Recommended for ages 7 years upwards.

Booking is essential as places are limited.

Suggested minimum donation of £5 per person. Please donate in advance to secure a place.

This event is free for Volunteers and Friends of the reserve.

Family Pond Dipping 1

Wednesday 28th July 2021 | 45 minute sessions on the hour

Come along and find out which animals are living in some of the Foxglove ponds. Book a pond dipping session for your family bubble. There will be a socially distanced brief to set you off and then you can use the equipment for the remainder of the session. You will be requested to use hand gel on arrival and the net handles will be cleaned between sessions. Please call the Reserve Managers on 07754 270980 to book your allocated slot. You are advised to arrive 15 minutes before your allocated time.

Booking is essential. A donation in advance (card payment by phone) of £5 per family bubble is required in order to secure your booking.

VIEW ALL EVENTS