Walkway update
Although we are still in the winter season (at the time of writing) and despite the recent extreme cold snaps both in the UK and in France, we have commissioned the replacement of a further 40 metres of the walkway. Our committed local builder, Arnaud Delescluse, has made a start on the next sections moving towards the southeastern ‘Fricourt’ side of the Crater. The work will continue running clockwise until we eventually complete the whole circumference. Lochnagar Commemorative Plaques are being removed and refitted as we go. IF
News on poppy wreaths
I’m sure many Friends already do their bit to reduce, reuse, or recycle plastics at home. With that in mind we have been actively exploring what we at Lochnagar could do too. We have been mindful that the wreaths we use for our commemorations and ceremonies are almost 100% plastic and currently non-biodegradable. And although the Royal British Legion are looking at solutions to increase the proportion of reusable or biodegradable components this is proving quite a challenge for them. Indeed, after our wreaths have been at the Crater, often for nearly 12 months, when we take them to the dechetterie (the public recycling depot) we are told they must go to landfill. We’re not sure what answers there may be in the short term but be sure we will monitor developments at the RBL. IF
Essential pollarding of the Hawthorns
In our continuing efforts to manage the toxic processionary caterpillars and their out-of-reach nests, we have commissioned local tree specialists to pollard all the hawthorns at the Crater to a more manageable height. They did a very good job on their last visit in the spring of 2020 so hopefully we might be able to reduce the overall problem again this year. IF
Working Weekend 2023
For those wonderful volunteers already planning a trip to the Crater for the Working Weekend the dates this year will be Friday 26th to Monday 29th May. Although some Friends and supporters may arrive earlier, we can be sure there will be plenty to do for everyone. Do remember that all Friends are welcome whether you want to get stuck in with the hard graft or take the opportunity to enjoy the company of other good people and of course, the vital service of chatting with visitors to the Crater. Everyone is welcome. (Most tools are provided and all you need are a pair of gardening gloves and a large tube of Deep Heat!)
We will be in touch via email and Facebook nearer the time to determine approximate numbers and to plan a schedule of works. David and Clare Disbrey have very kindly agreed to coordinate our usual welcome meal at Le Poppy restaurant on the Friday evening and have also invited us all to Contalmaison on the Sunday evening for their superb BBQ. More details to follow nearer the time. IF
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