A TEAM of volunteers from Crediton firm Ernest Jackson recently spent a day helping to tidy up the Millennium Green and Path in Sandford.

Di Martin from Sandford Millennium Green Committee, said: “It was one of the hottest days of the year, unexpected weather for September 8.

“On this day a community team of 18, starting at 8am, met at the main gate, making their way up to the start of the Path in Crediton and, in relative shade, did an excellent job at clearing the surface of the Path and cutting back encroaching vegetation along the sides.

“By 9am it was hot, and frequent water breaks were essential.

“By 10am, they were out in the sun and the decision was made to return along the Path to the Green and try to find jobs to do in the shade. The walk provided a welcome break. In conversation with the team, it was surprising how many of them said they had no idea the Path existed. 

“The next few hours were spent trimming around bridges and benches, cutting back along pathways, noticeboards and entrances.

“One team followed the Trail of 27 posts and cleared round each one of those. (Leaflets with information about the numbered posts can be found in The Lamb Inn and Sandford Stores).

“Another group made an excellent job of uncovering the Bug Hotel in the Apple Orchard.  It had been completely engulfed by brambles and bindweed entangled in a fallen limb from a nearby tree.

“In the middle of all this they managed a lunch break in the shade of the trees by the cob shelter.

“Darren cooked some very welcome hotdogs on his barbecue, which seemed to hit the spot, washed down by Sandford Millennium Green Apple Juice (and more water!). These were followed by flapjacks from the Green team. 

“They did a brilliant job and everyone who uses the Green and Path regularly will be very grateful for their efforts.

“The Millennium Green Committee is also very relieved to have some assistance with the massive growth of vegetation produced by this year’s Summer weather. Thank you Ernest Jackson for your contribution to our community.”