Friends of the Tame Valley had a successful morning recently, clearing out the invasive Himalayan Balsam plant from the area.
Himalayan Balsam is an invasive species that can prevent native plant species from growing. It can grow up to 2.5 metres and a single plant can produce between 800 to 2500 seeds. Balsam can be removed through a combination of hand pulling and snapping.
Twelve local volunteers from Friends of the Tame Valley assembled and began the process Balsam Bashing.
Among the volunteers was Denton MP and Friends of the Tame Valley secretary Andrew Gwynne, as well as Denton North East councillor Allison Gwynne.
Friends of the Tame Valley have now organised a second Balsam Bashing event to take place on Sunday 22 August at 10:30am in Jet Amber Fields.
Those interested in attending should meet the rest of the Balsam Bashers at Bailey Bridge, and training will be provided on the day.
At the next event, the friends group will be joined by The Mersey Rivers Trust - a local charity working to improve rivers and waterways.
Denton MP Andrew Gwynne (front) and the other volunteers who took part in the first event
The most recent event was organised by committee members Rob Hardman and Chris Clarke.
Speaking afterwards, Chris said: "The Balsam Bash went really well, we had a dozen or so volunteers turn up including children, and all were keen to take part in our next invasive plant removal event.
"Vast amounts of it were cleared, allowing sunlight to get to the native vegetation. Before the clear-out, the river itself couldn't be seen from the bank. Now it can and the pathway is clear for all the community to enjoy. I look forward to arranging another event."
Rob Hardman said: "Our first Balsam Bashing event was a great success and we are grateful to those who gave up their time to help out.
"Although ridding the valley of Himalayan Balsam is a massive and ongoing task we made a significant impact on the part of the riverbank we worked on. As a bonus it was good to meet some of our members who all enjoyed working together and hopefully will be encouraged to join us at future events, along with many others."
Cllr Allison Gwynne commented: "It was great to get out and about with local volunteers who are passionate about tidying and improving the Valley. I had never Balsam Bashed before, so it was fantastic to be given an induction into what it entailed, and how it can benefit the local environment.
"Balsam Bashing is fun for all the family, so I would encourage anyone who is interested to get involved!
"I'm really looking forward to the next event on 22 August, and am grateful to The Mersey Rivers Trust for partnering with us. Slowly but surely, we will clear out the remaining Balsam and help the Tame Valley flourish."
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