It’s that time of year again! Volunteer groups from across the country will be competing against one another to see who can rake the most grass. The NE won in 2 categories last year so the pressure’s on to defend the title! The categories this year are:
- Most grass raked by a group
- Most grass raked by per person
- Best newcomer
- Best photograph involving a rake
Great British Rake Off - Friday 4th October 10am until 3pm
We will be working on NCN7 (Coast to Coast) cycle and walking track in Birtley. Parking is available at the Wheatsheaf Inn, Durham Road, DH3 2 AB and also on local streets - Kingsmere, DH3 4DB.
Full training on using a scythe and a wooden rake will be given.
Of course it’s all happening in the name of biodiversity - by raking and removing the grass cuttings we’ll be helping to reduce nutrients in the soil to allow a more diverse range of wildflowers to grow in place of the coarse grasses which currently dominate the area.
We also have a wooden sleeper bench to repair and as always there is sure to be some litter to pick and maybe a spot of painting!
All tools will be provided courtesy of Sustrans.
Please come along dressed for the weather with warm / waterproof clothing with long sleeves and trousers and sturdy footwear (ESSENTIAL as we will be using sharp tools!). A pair of gardening gloves would be handy too.
You will need to bring along a packed lunch and a drink for yourself. Tea / coffee and biscuits will be provided.
PLEASE log a will attend if you intend to come along even if you can only stay for a short amount of time. I need to know how many people to expect so that I have enough tools for everyone.
This event will make a huge difference to the local area and really make the place nicer for people to cycle, walk and geocache in!
I hope to see you there!