As if I need another reason to get out in the hills last year I joined the Upland Path Volunteer scheme with the Brecon Beacons National Park. The group was established with the aim of assisting with the maintenance and monitoring of the upland paths in the Black Mountains.
I first walked in the Black Mountains over 20 years ago and led many groups and day walks and overnight expeditions, camping at high level. I had a break, travelled around and returned to the area several years ago. I was surprised at hammering the hills had taken in that time. Paths were much wider and deeper and in many places the peat was non existent. The increase in walkers enjoying the hills, the random weather patterns and the influx of illegal off-roaders had all taken their toll.
I first walked in the Black Mountains over 20 years ago and led many groups and day walks and overnight expeditions, camping at high level. I had a break, travelled around and returned to the area several years ago. I was surprised at hammering the hills had taken in that time. Paths were much wider and deeper and in many places the peat was non existent. The increase in walkers enjoying the hills, the random weather patterns and the influx of illegal off-roaders had all taken their toll.
I came across the volunteer scheme on the National Park website while looking for opportunities to give something back to the area that had given me so much pleasure. A brief telephone interview and I was invited along to one of the regular sessions. I enjoyed the day and managed not to offend anyone so was invited back again. I now help out once a month and any other times that I can spare. There have been opportunities to attend various courses including First Aid, navigation, hedge laying, stone pitching, and ecology.
So now, rather than going for a walk in the hills, I meet with some fantastic like minded people and go for a walk in the hills with a spade and a mattock. We stop and enjoy the view, clear drains, divert water from the paths and log any areas that may need some extra help. Volunteers are of all ages and come from a wide area but all have something in common - a love of the Brecon Beacons.
A new group has now been established to provide the same service in the Central Beacons and both groups are on the lookout for new volunteers. So if you're up for a new challenge for the New Year then why not contact the volunteer co-ordinator at the Brecon Beacons National Park.
A new group has now been established to provide the same service in the Central Beacons and both groups are on the lookout for new volunteers. So if you're up for a new challenge for the New Year then why not contact the volunteer co-ordinator at the Brecon Beacons National Park.