Volunteer team helps to preserve mining heritage

DOZENS of volunteers came together to tidy up part of Poynton’s mining heritage.

The Inclines originally carried railway lines for transporting coal from the coal fields of Higher Poynton.

Today they are an idyllic woodland amenity for walkers, joggers, dog walkers and cyclists.

As part of the ongoing effort to keep the area tidy almost 30 volunteers of all ages gave their time to clear the paths and plant new saplings.

Cubs and Beavers from 1st Poynton Scout Group cleared mud from the paths and planting holly, guilder rose, dog rose and other native species to enhance the woodland.

Some of the plants were donated by the Woodland Trust as part of their First World War commemoration initiative.

The Town Council supplied well-earned refreshments for the volunteers at the end of the session which has been hailed a success.

It doesn’t stop there though, another session of planting and clearing has been booked for Saturday February 27, next year, as part of the management of the site.

Poynton has a rich mining heritage. Once the village had the largest coalfield in Cheshire, with 74 pits.

Although coal mining ceased in 1935, there remain many clues to this former industry and the walk which includes the Inclines is designed to provide a glimpse into Poynton’s fascinating industrial past.