Brash bashing at Alderley Edge on Sunday 10th May 2026

Today's workday had been planned for Lyme Park but was changed to Alderley Edge the day before as Lyme's entrance was closed due to roadworks on the A6.  So, the lucky 13 met in the car park at Alderley Edge and after picking up tools carpooled to the start of a footpath near Squirrels Jump.

Even though it’s close to the road the path was difficult to see so we worked with loppers and silkys (pruning saws) to clear the overgrowth.  We even brushed away the leaves!  This was the only task Ranger Izzy had for us at short notice and as we were such a big group we made short work of it.

We’ve worked at Alderley a few times this year so knew a meadow area just a couple of minutes drive away that could do with a bit of TLC.  But the first priority was lunch and relaxation in the sunshine.

We had made a pathway through the brambles at the entrance eighteen months beforehand but it was already starting to disappear and because it's a popular area for dog walkers we cut back the new growth.

We also dug up brambles in the middle of the meadow.

And cut down the last of the encroaching birch saplings.

Many thanks to Jenny for all the time she spent talking to Ranger Izzy to arrange the day at Alderley Edge.  It was really enjoyable with lots of variety and the opportunity to complete some work we had started on previous visits.

Jean