The benefits of having split work parties were again evident as our faithful volunteers took on a range of different jobs this week.

Chris M and Sharon started the morning at Hebron Road with a petrol mower to tidy the area around the barge, which had only been strimmed last Tuesday.

The team at Coed Gwilym Park was centred on planting and tending the two Canoe Store gardens which have been entered into this years ‘Clydach in Bloom’ event. Jan kindly donated rudbeckia and Canna lilies, while Margaret and John Gwalter brought primroses, lily of the valley, and daffodil bulbs. It was great to see them both visiting us once again. Moira, Christina G, Chris M, Phil and Martin planted the lovely flowers and cut the grass verges to make sure the gardens are ready for the summer season.

John Gr was busy in the Canoe Store continuing to protect the bows of the canoes with old bicycle tyres. Cut into small sections and glued on with contact adhesive, it ensures the life of the boats is extended.

A second group, well just Sharon and Alan W really, headed to the aqueduct in Pontardawe where we plan to repaint the railings. The pair spent several hours scraping off old paint, moss and mildew on two panels, a dirty and repetitive job, but one which left them (the railings, not S&A) clean and ready to paint next week.

The third group of Alan T, Mike F, Lance, Rowan and Duncan returned to the Canal Centre in Hebron Road to complete the capping on the front wall. They’re dab hands at doing this now and a few hours of slick team work saw the wall finished and looking very fine! Duncan and Lance ended the morning with a bit of pointing under the slabs, but it was tricky work so they kindly left much of it for others another day!

Everyone met up at CGP for coffee and a lovely choice of cakes by Margaret. Whitethorns popped in, as did several staff from Swansea Council who were keen to arrange group canoeing events during the summer. Mike F is already on their case!

So another hugely productive day went by with much achieved and visual improvements clear for all to see.