CO-OP CLEAN-UP DAY - SATURDAY 2 JULY 2016

A VERY BIG THANK YOU TO ALL THOSE WHO TURNED UP TO HELP WITH THE BALSAM BASHING YESTERDAY. Although we would obviously have liked more to have joined us, fifteen people did turn out in what started as good dry weather, but eventually turned into a bit of a wash-out, causing us to finish earlier than expected. However, we did have a small litter pick - thankfully not too much around this time - and made quite a good start with the balsam. Thank you also to Dot and Mike Miller and Darren Alexander from the Co-op for providing goody bags, equipment and physical labour throughout the event. Anyone who would like to help with trying to get rid of this invasive plant at any time is welcome to pull a bit out as they enjoy a walk in the area of the fish pass - or anywhere else for that matter. It generally pulls out quite easily and can be left on the ground to rot away. I attach a photo so that those less knowing will be able to identify it. If it gets to the flowering stage, as shown in the photo, it throws out thousands of seeds, all of which are likely to grow the following year.

Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) is a relative of the busy Lizzie, but reaches well over head height, and is a major weed problem, especially on riverbanks and waste land, but can also invade gardens. It grows rapidly and spreads quickly, smothering other vegetation as it goes.