Another bitterly cold morning saw the volunteers assemble between the bridges in Pontardawe. A quick start to hard labour soon warmed us up.

Alan W, Gareth and Martin cut back brash along the towpath and others started the day by pulling out a little weed.

The main event was cutting and removing buddleia from the off-bank near to the Herbert Street bridge. Gordon, seen here taking a breather, used “Nellie” to cross the canal. The rest of the vols dragged the branches across before cutting them up and stashing away neatly.

Chris, Moira and Ronnie made sure the towpath was clear, neat and tidy.

Time for tea and chat. Ronnie provided an excellent selection of sweet and savoury treats.

It was lovely to work in town for a change. Many passers-by stopped for a chat and to thank us for the work we are doing to keep the canal in good order. How long will this cold snap last?