Another scorcher saw the volunteers at work at two sites. Firstly, Chris, Ronnie and Dave worked on the railings alongside the Pontardawe aqueduct. They prepared the rails by rubbing off years of accumulated growth and dirt before applying a coat of white paint. A cracking start, but more to do next week.

Sue, the apprentice Waste Management Engineer, called in on her way from Coed Gwilym to Bridge 8.

The second group of volunteers assembled at the canal by the Riverside Resource Centre.

Sharon cleared spent mortar and unwanted vegetation from Bridge 8. She was disappointed not to be able to add fresh mortar but the deluge later in the afternoon justified the decision to hold off for another week.

Martin tended to the saplings that he and Alan W had planted last week by giving them a nourishing dressing of chicken manure.

The rest of the vols continued to reinforce the bank. Lance, Phil, and Chris M mixed the mix and filled the sacks. Andrew – whose main function seemed to be as the gopher for buckets, loading tubes, sacks, etc. – looked into it. Chris trundled the bags to Duncan and Mike who set them in place and John tidied the bank behind them. The final photo shows the terrific outcome of a hard day’s toil.

Tea was taken with cakes and savouries prepared by Chris G. Delicious, as always. Whitethorns joined us and Jay was careful to ensure everyone was introduced to everyone else.

That’s all folks. Another busy day in glorious sunshine warmed the cockles of our hearts. Well done, one and all.