Sun shines on the lock painting team
THE Uppermi l l Community Action Network ( UCAN) volunteers were all feeling rather blessed at their recent activity morning thanks to the glorious sunny weather which made it ideal to continue painting at Wade Lock.
Working with the Canal & River Trust (CRT), the group likes to think this important asset really does contribute to the beauty of Uppermill and to the sense of well-being of village life.
As always, a thorough litter pick also took place alongside the canal and the final activity of the morning was the regular balsam ‘Bashing’. Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glanduliflora) is a widespread invasive species which is difficult to control and, while looking attractive with its pink and white flowers, tends to crowd out native plant species.
Each summer, before it produces seed, UCAN spends some time alongside the canal ‘bashing’ the balsam – pulling up the Himalayan balsam from the base of the plant – to prevent it from setting seed and spreading further along the canalside.
Volunteers had been unable to carry out this task for two years owing to the pandemic but, with regular attention, their approach should reduce the growth on this site in future years.