A cold day with the threat of rain but there was a huge turnout of willing volunteers. The focus was in Coed Gwilym Park but first Lance, Sue and Andy planted at the Swansea Canal Centre a rose and a honeysuckle generously gifted to us by Nigel and Lyn Harvey.

In Coed Gwilym Park, Martin, Moira and Sharon gave the flowerbeds their first trim of 2026.

Chrises G & M, Diane, John Grav and Moira continued to tidy and clean the canoe store.

The vols cleared branches and assorted debris from the cut.

The main job for today was to install a safety rail at the golf course sluice. Water drains through the sluice at great speed so the rail should stop passers-by from falling into the canal and getting sucked into the sluice. First up, Alan and Gordon cut six uprights and Gordon pounded out holes for them. Then the whole thing was carefully bolted into place.

Time for tea, with tasty food provided by Moira. David Morgan from Glandŵr Cymru, seen hiding shyly at the top left of the second photo, called in for a chat.

After tea, Sparky Gordon cut a few more lengths of tubing and the project was completed. Of course, there was plenty of time for horsing around – Bob’s new hearing aids are barely noticeable!

The rain held off but the wind was very chilly so it was time to go home. This is volunteering at its very best – a massive turnout of vols all working hard on an assortment of vital jobs. Well done everyone!