Banking volunteers build new footpath for Dales Way walkers

Twenty volunteers from across Yorkshire and Lancashire joined Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority rangers to build a new section of path in woodland close to the village of Appletreewick.

They used stones to create a path edge and then, using a wheelbarrow, brought around 12 tonnes aggregate to the site to use as backfill.

And the result was pretty impressive, according to Phil Richards, the authority’s area ranger for Wharfedale and Littondale.

“It was a real team effort to get the job done and the end result was of a high standard – a real credit to the staff,” he said.

“The footpath had become quite badly eroded exposing tree roots and making it difficult for walkers to use. The volunteers built about 60 metres of new path and repaired or constructed several drains on the route while they were at it.

“We are very grateful to Lloyds Bank for paying for all the materials and for providing all the willing pairs of hands and feet.

“The national park authority relies heavily on volunteers to help us – whether they are from groups or organisations or individuals wanting to get a breath of fresh air.

“By donating time, money or materials, everyone can help to keep this beautiful landscape in tip top condition and have a great time in the process.”

David Ibbotson, regional manager for Lloyds Banking Group, said: “I’d like to say thanks to Phil and the national park authority team for giving us this opportunity as part of our Day to Make a Difference volunteering scheme.

“I’m immensely proud of the way my team worked so successfully with the national park rangers to transform this section of the Dales Way, which will benefit thousands of walkers.

“We’d also like to say ‘thank you’ to David Aynesworth and his team at the Craven Arms in Appletreewick for providing refreshments before and after our work.”

The Dales Way is an 84-mile (135 km) long distance footpath, which starts in Ilkley and ends at Bowness-on-Windermere.