Now that the latest storm has abated, please can you alll go and check your local lanes.
At the weekend or as soon as you can, go and walk, ride cycle or hack around the lanes closest to you.
Take a folding saw and some secateurs, but most of all your eyes. Take pictures of any blockage then clear it if you can. If you can't, report it on here or through the correct channels.
We probably have one of the most widespread networks of interested people in Devon so it would be great to show a bit of community spirit.
I am going out on my bike tomorrow to have a look around if anyone fancies joining me.
Jacks Patch Bishopsteignton 0900hrs. But let me know you are coming.
202-032 (GRMUID 5548) - I don't think these are all from Storm Cairan, I remember ducking to get under at least one of them before, but I removed a low limb and 3 leaners from Ridge Lane, and also trimmed back some holly and brambles, without ruining the character of this lovely little single track lane.
Well, the plan was to have a look at my local lanes then perhaps go and get some tools to sort out things if I could. The ones nearest to me were all ok so I went a bit further, and further, and further. Eventually I did 114 miles and had a lovely day's riding. I cleared 4 obstructions and dragged numerous branches out of the way.
At one point I was challenged by a Dragon out rambling. She said she didn't agree with me using the lane to ride my bike on. After several exchanges I told her my plans for the day were to clear and report on the lanes for the benefit of all user groups and that perhaps instead of moaning she should do the same. Her husband walked off at this point smiling, he remained silent throughout the whole exchange, I felt sorry for him having to spend the rest of the day with her.
I am lucky to be able to ride midweek so it will be interesting what everyone else comes across this weekend. There's a lot of water out there boys....take care.
Trevor
This one was near Kenton, it is on the TET and there was evidence of several bike having turned around. Would need a bit of expertise to do as it's resting on its branches. 192 188
192 145 Newton Poppleford, didn't look much of a job as it was all on the ground. A well used track so the farmer will probably do it.
191-021 Sorted this one with my saw, the effort warmed me up but previous Wacky lessons helped with decision to cut.
192-114 very deep and muddy, got through but with full boots, I would leave it for a while.
There is a small tree across the lane where the steep bit starts, could have sorted it with my saw but was running out of energy by then .192-076
-- Edited by Trevor Foxon on Saturday 4th of November 2023 08:14:44 AM
-- Edited by Trevor Foxon on Saturday 4th of November 2023 08:15:11 AM
Beer, Branscombe, Southleigh, Colyton and Whitford lanes all clear.
Only one that might need a little work is 192-121, 8" dia trunk over the lane, but managed to squeeze quads through okay, but was tight, be even easier on a bike.
192-094 Ford is passable, southern end has a deep trench forming, and the flow is enough to push you towards the stepping stones, so take care if on 2 wheels.
-- Edited by KronreifTrunkenpolzMattighofen on Monday 6th of November 2023 10:53:29 AM
