Volunteers from Friends of the Tame Valley spent Saturday morning tidying the Tame Valley and clearing overgrown brambles in Shepley Wood.

The morning of activity was organised by FoTV committee member Rob Hardman, with a further day of action organised for Tuesday (16 May). 

As part of the clear-out, volunteers even revealed a small pond which they plan to integrate into improvements. It is hoped that - once completed - the area can be used for wildflower planting, a bug hotel and outdoor seating.

Friends of the Tame Valley were set up in 2021 with the help of Denton and Reddish MP Andrew Gwynne, since it was formed, the group has raised money for signage repairs, and hold regular community litter picks.

On Saturday, Rob was joined by FoTV Member Carole Right and Audenshaw councillor Nick Axford.

Cllr Axford, who helped with the effort on Saturday, said: "Friends of the Tame Valley are a fantastic organisation that helps look after our local wildlife, and it was great to be able to spend a sunny morning helping them to clear out a section of Shepley Wood that had become overgrown with brambles.

"This will help the area become more accessible, as well as preparing the ground for any future planting.

"This has been a great project from committee member Rob Hardman over a few days, and I look forward to working with Rob and the group in the future to help protect our valley!”

Committee Member Rob Hardman added: "Volunteers did a fantastic job of clearing the park of litter and made a cracking start of cutting back years of overgrown brambles from the area of Shepley Wood that has been neglected for years. We gave revealed a small pond and plan to integrate this into the improvements.

"There is tons still to do and we will be looking at further work days in this area. Possible plans once it is cleared include planting wildflowers, a bug hotel and seating.

"We are grateful for volunteers coming out to help with such a daunting task and look forward to creating something special for those who enjoy the Tame Valley."

Those wishing to help at tomorrow's event should meet Rob Hardman at 10am on the North East Corner of Shepley Wood (M34 5DL).

Please bring protective equipment (thick gloves, suitable clothing) and something to cut the brambles with.

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