Footpath Cleared!

A working party has cleared the popular 'Footpath 17' which starts from the track to the left of Forncett School and runs over the area commonly known as 'The Park', over the River Tas to join the Tas Valley Way.  Much of the route is over a boardwalk (to ease passage over some very boggy ground).  Over the years vegetation has encouched on the boardwalk, almost overwhelming it in places.  Parish Council Vice-Chairman, Bev Humphreys, and Footpath Warden, David Peacock, set up the working party (consisting of Bev, David and fellow councillors Claire Jordan and Brian Frith, with Mike Jordan) which descended on the route on Saturday 26th April. After less than 2 hours' work with strimmer, scythe, secateurs, shovels and stiff brooms the boardwalk had been restored to its original '4 plank' width, making it much easier to use in all conditions. See the photos for some 'before, during and after' shots.

Photos by Brian Frith
(click for slideshow)

If you don't know this route, try it out!  You can park near the school (NR16 1LT) and set off on the path between the school and church. There is large map fastened to the fence of the school showing all the paths in the area. This path leads via a heavily wooded area behind the school, through a gate, over a couple of bridges and onto the boardwalk.  At the end of the boardwalk go up the slope and you then have three choices - or four if you want to turn round and go straight back!  

• Turning left will take you along the Tas Valley Way towards Forncett St Mary, with several alternatives as you progress towards Hapton.  
• Turning right along the track will take you to Wash Lane and an easy route back to the School via Aslacton Road.  
• Going straight ahead will take you to Bustard's Green and lots of other return possibilities.

We are fortunate to have no less than 32 designated public footpaths in Forncett.  Thanks to all who contribute in any way to their maintenance and keeping them accessible.