Allscott Settling Pools

Mystery Tour Day!

In other words we'd no idea where we were going (although a couple of volunteers had taken an educated guess based on recent articles in the local press) so it was that we all squeezed into the bus with Penny bringing in the spillover in her own car.

After a trip down many country lanes, circling the Wrekin twice, over the Long Mynd, through Llangollen, marvelling at Aberdovey breakers we eventually arrived at

And what a fascinating area it is too. A vast wetland that's been an SSSI since the 60's.

We were briefed by John - a former employee of the company and what he doesn't know about the chemistry of sugar beet processing just isn't worth knowing. A veritable Bunsen burner in his own right!

We were also treated to a fascinating tale of hard-work and abject dedication from the very enthusiastic Julian Langford, a sprightly 71 year-old who in 2009 will be spending his 49th year carrying out his annual bird-ringing exercise as around 1000 birds arrive mainly from Africa to settle for the season in this haven for wildlife.

Julian explained that 123 different species have now been recorded since he started in June 1961 including at least 58 breeding species! No less than 106,231 have now been ringed by Julian and a small but dedicated team of helpers. That's a lot of fluff and feathers!

We were here today to help crack the crack-willow epidemic. Too much willow prevents the free-flight of the visiting migrants

This area was very overgrown and it took most of the day for a few of us to clear a path. Very boggy so very pleased I took Pete's advice and went fully-wellied instead of boots.

Pete and Julian discuss tactics whilst Olly listens in and Brian sends a text message!

Interesting shot of one of the Settling Pools

One of the many 'wet' areas. I very nearly fell in the quagmire taking this pic - much to everyone's amusement!

On this day the last of the towers were being demolished - a sight and site soon to be no more

A somewhat rickety footbridge that crosses the River Tern. There has to be a troll lurking under here somewhere! (Watch the movie below - I think I just caught a glimpse of one!)

No Slide Show this week folks!
Instead I've turned a few WuFuV's into movie stars!
Turn up your speakers and press the play button...