Bolton NEWT has previously worked with the Friends of Firwood Fold to clear the leat that runs alongside the lodge. This Sunday was a great opportunity to not only learn hedgelaying from Rick Parker of the Bolton Conservation Volunteers but also to meet up with the lovely volunteers from the Friends of Firwood Fold.
Hedgelaying is a traditional technique used to lay living hedges, prolonging the life of the hedge by hundreds of years and thickening the hedge to provide protection for nesting birds. The living laid hedge becomes a haven for amphibians, insects and birds to seek protection and shelter.
An abundance of food was provided by BCV with roast potatoes on the fire and cakes and pies by the Friends of Firwood Fold". The hedge was laid and what remained was the task of planting bulbs such as bluebells, wild garlic and other bulbs that grow well in shaded areas.
There was a complete transformation of the path down to Firwood Fold and all carried out thanks to the Bolton Green Umbrella - bringing together volunteers.
