Have you been down to the woods today

Orchard

16 January 2016

Photos taken by Carole Trowbridge

New Ash Green Woodlands Group

Have you been down to the woods today

Hard hats at the ready for some serious pruning …

… and sturdy boots to keep feet warm and protected

This month it’s back in the orchard …

… with the late autumn fallers still on the ground

Have you been down to the woods today

… using the telescopic pruning saw

Jerry makes a start … which reaches the places other saws can’t

Have you been down to the woods today

to the dead hedge on Lambardes bank.

A valuable natural border and habitat

Pete trims the arisings …

and willing hands transport them …

Have you been down to the woods today

Martin works with Jean …

More repairs are needed on Lambardes corner. to strengthen an old section of hedge.

Have you been down to the woods today

and the call for a tea break is enthusiastically received.

Ah, time for a nice hot cuppa.

It’s a chilly day so the fire is a very welcome sight.

It’s important to keep warm …

Have you been down to the woods today

Yup, looks like that went down a treat!

Shame to waste what’s left over from Christmas…

especially when there’s a willing volunteer.

Have you been down to the woods today

and sometimes you have to be cruel to be kind …

whilst retaining the orchard’s natural beauty

Often the hardest bit of the job …

is deciding where to make the cut …