A good day for wading

With water levels low and the temperature soaring it was a good day to wade across the river so five of us headed up the Frome Valley Walkway from St Peter's Church. Just beyond the Centenary Field a trodden path leads down to the river and a spot on the far bank where a clump of balsam was in full flower.

Donning wellies and waders we crossed the river which was relatively shallow and cleared this clump before heading upstream towards Black Rocks clearing balsam as we went.

At Black Rocks itself there were a few odd balsam plants to be seen unlike last year when this area was badly infested. This year there were pleasing signs of native wildflowers, including meadowsweet and purple loosestrife which were flourishing without the competition from the balsam.

Meadowsweet

Purple Loosestrife

Continuing upstream we worked along the far riverbank clearing balsam from amongst the undergrowth and up to the edge of the field beyond. We were hoping to clear all the way up to the metal footbridge at Cogmill but it was a little slower going than anticipated. However we cleared a huge amount and another visit should clear the rest.

We also saw some interesting wildlife including a glimpse of a kingfisher as it flashed up the river and this stunning damselfly which was a little more cooperative for the camera.