A RECORD number of volunteers turned out last month helping Uppermill Community Action Network to pass the milestone of two thousand volunteer hours since the group was formed four years ago.

Making the most of the sunshine, their valiant work continued in the viaduct woodland with the team forming a chain gang to move vegetation away from the central area.

The work will help with tasks later in the year, such as balsam bashing and bulb planting while still providing a habitat for wildlife.

Other team members concentrated on the raised beds near Limekiln lock and clearing litter along the Huddersfield narrow canal towpath.

The group says it is always keen to welcome new members and interested volunteers can attend a new programme on Thursday, April 11; Saturday, April 27; Saturday, May 11 and Thursday, May 23.

A spokesperson said: “Volunteering in the local environment is a great way of meeting other locals, enjoying some healthy exercise and fresh air, with a well earned hot drink and biscuit at the end.”

All equipment is provided by Canal and Rivers Trust and helpers are recommended to wear stout footwear and suitable clothing for the weather conditions on the day.

The usual meeting time and point is 10am at the canal bridge on Moorgate Street, Uppermill. Contact UCAN's Group Leader Peter Killan on 01457 878361, or e-mail at peterkillan@hotmail.com.

For anyone interested in keeping updated on the groups activities please visit Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1899154207069001/