Leader Rob
The arrival of the Christmas coppicing task
marks the rapid passing of another successful year in the life
of the GVCV. 
Despite a very gloomy Saturday and an evening of heavy rain 15 volunteers turned out for the end of year extravaganza.
This included 3 new recruits who hopefully we will see again. As it happens the weather was extremely kind to us.
After the obligatory safety talk an explanation of the task was given emphasising its benefits to wildlife. Julian, the Site Warden wasted no time in starting the fire and soon a substantial amount of material was cut and waiting to be sorted.
A large amount of clematis and bramble had
to be removed before we could start coppicing any of the hazel
or ash. 
Anything suitable for use as hedging stakes and heatherings was saved with the rest of the cut material (brash) being burnt.
The highlight of the day soon arrived, namely lunchtime, and baked potatoes were served straight from the bonfire with an excellent array of fillings.
Thanks to Ros and Alison for sorting out
the food which was appreciated by everyone. After washing down
the bakewell tarts and mince pies with copious tea and coffee,
the afternoon session started. 
By the close of play an impressive area had been coppiced, with the cut material yielding a lot of good quality materials for hedging.
The bonfire gave off a very satisfying light and warmth as dusk fell sending us off home in a suitably festive mood.
Another job well done!
