HARD-WORKING supporters of Sustainable Ledbury were again lent a hand by Balfour Beatty volunteers when they continued their restoration of the Town Trail.

The work — now in its fifth week — is part of a programme of practical environmental action launched by the town council launched month. Other groups involved include Ledbury Naturalists, Garden Organic and the Repair Café.

Inspired by the COP26 climate conference in Glasgow, the programme was intended to make tangible improvements in the town, rather than simply talking about the issue of climate change.

This week, Sustainable Ledbury volunteers braved the rain to continue with their work. A spokesman for the group said: “The Town Council had asked us to do some work on the Town Trail near the skate park to tidy up the area and let in more light.

“We recognised that this was not a good area to create a 'dead hedge' and were delighted to be joined by some of the Balfour Beatty team with their chipper. 

“All the brash was chipped and spread, and we also removed 5 bags of litter.

“Under one of the trees it looked like someone had started a composting area. 

“We've cleared this and ask people not to do that as we want to encourage the return of wild flowers.”

The volunteers are now taking a break from their efforts until after Christmas. 

“Then we'll be back to continue work on the stretch of the Trail between Bye Street and Woodleigh Road,” the spokesman said. 

To get involved with the work party, which usually takes place on Monday mornings, email sustainableledbury@gmail.com.