Local residents are being invited to help make the Tame Valley free of Balsam over the summer period. 

The Friends of Tame Valley have organised some Balsam Bashing sessions over the coming weeks. 

The first will be tackling invasive species along the Tame in Jet Amber Fields.

The group are meeting by the river bank on Saturday (31 July) at 10.30am. People willing to volunteer can find them by entering the site from the Broomstair Road entrance in Audenshaw. 

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. It can, however, be easily removed, and the Balsam Bashing Event is safe and fun for all the family.  

The event was organised by committee members Rob Hardman and Chris Clarke. 

Committee Member Rob Hardman said: "My daughter Amelia and I have been out a few times ourselves to try and get rid of some of the invasive Balsam but the sheer amount we found throughout the valley necessitates a group effort. 

"Balsam can take over and prevent native species from flourishing. By taking action we can protect the biodiversity of the valley so visitors as well as plants and animals can enjoy it." 

Denton MP Andrew Gwynne said: "This is a fantastic idea, and I'm really grateful to Rob and Chris for organising it. I’d encourage anyone who is interested to get involved. Balsam can really damage the valley, so it’s important that we act to protect our local environment.

"Balsam Bashing can be done by all the family, so if you're free this Saturday morning, come and give us a helping hand!"

Formed earlier this year, they are a group of residents caring for the section of the Tame Valley from Shepley Wood, Audenshaw, through Jet Amber Fields in Denton and Hyde and running into Upper Haughton and Whittles Meadows to Mill Lane, Haughton Green. 

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