Back at the canal near the Glantawe Riverside Park this week, but what a contrast in the weather. Torrential rain replaced by lovely, warm sunshine – a lovely day to be out and about, working hard.

One of the jobs for today was to continue with repairing wash holes. Gordon, Andrew and Martin mixed the concrete to fill the hessian sacks, Colin had a quick lesson from Chris and then delivered the bags to Alan T and our newest recruit, Duncan. They laid some bags in the wash hole that Alan had started on in the rain last week and then moved upstream to a deeper hole close to a huge oak tree that seemed to be in danger of toppling over. Perhaps the tree should be removed before it tumbles and causes a major breach. Duncan took the last two, very atmospheric photos.

The second task was to clear bramble and brash from on and around Bridge 8, Ynysmeudwy Isaf. This clearance was needed to permit the erection of scaffolding for the “225 in 2023” event to repoint the bridge with lime mortar. This will be a community project lead by Glandŵr Cymru to inform the public and give the opportunity for hands-on work in this traditional skill. Martin took the last two photos showing the excellent job done by the volunteers.

Tea was taken with sugar-free cakes baked by Andy.

After tea, work continued on the wash-holes while Moira and Sharon trimmed overhanging foliage.

Today’s wildlife corner starts of with the UK’s largest caterpillar – that of the Elephant Hawk Moth. The caterpillar will soon hide itself away underground, pupate over winter and then emerge in the spring as a beautiful moth.

On his way to today’s work party, Martin stopped off at the Buried Lock site to take this photo of the wild flower bed with cornflower, daisies and other meadow natives in full bloom.

Exhibit C is Andrew modelling his newest design of polo shirt graffiti etched in concrete. Other shirts are available.

A lovely day, another new recruit and two big jobs done. Excellent work everyone.