PRACTICE MEET, RILEY’S FARM, SPRINGHEAD, JULY 2025

July Practice Meet: 5th July 2025

Venue: Riley’s Farm, Brighton Road, Springhead, Oldham

The weather forecast had been far from promising. Nevertheless, 13 doughty members turned out, no doubt curious to see this site, which was new for the branch. The wall was conveniently situated opposite the Roebuck Inn; the only drawback being the proximity of the road. Fortunately, high-viz vests and portable road signs had been provided. Thank you, Bev / Paul.

The job was to dismantle an old wall at a track entrance and to rebuild, incorporating a curve and a step stile for a public footpath. There was good stone on the spot, but as usual, not enough. Our hosts Dave and Hannah could not have been more helpful; not only did tractor-loads of extra stone arrive, but also home-made buns and cake, much to everyone’s delight.

It was slow progress in the morning, though we were spared the promised rain until midday. An early lunch break was called and, taking refuge in a portacabin, we wondered if we would finish in time. Luckily, any showers were short-lived and we beavered away. Huge throughs were hefted and mammoth stone logs lifted into place for the stile. Well done that team!

An impressive achievement, an enjoyable day and a good new venue we can revisit.

Gill Bolshaw