June Third Saturday Volunteering Work Party – Balsam Bashing

Date/Time:

20/06/2026 10:00 am 20/06/2026 12:00 pm

Location:

Meeting & Parking Point:
Layby near Honley Old Woods, Knowle Lane, HD9 4HL (opposite Valley Bowmen of Huddersfield)
Grid ref: SE 11672 10907
What3words: ///such.blast.wisdom

Overflow Parking:
Honley Old Woods. From Meltham, the entrance is left off Knowle Lane, just after the layby. This road will also take you down to Woodfield Cottage.
Grid ref: SE1168 1103
What3words: ///land.learns.crab

Knowle Lane is a busy, fast road so please take care heading to and waiting at the meeting point.

Cost:

This event is free to attend.

More Details:

We will be bashing Himalayan balsam alongside a field leading down to Bank Dike and Meltham Mills reservoir.

Himalayan balsam is an invasive species which dominates native plant species, reduces biodiversity and contributes to erosion of riverbanks.

Access to the site is slightly challenging, there will be a 0.25km walk down hill on a public right of way alongside fields. There are a couple of stone stiles to climb over.  Please wear sturdy boots or wellies with good grip as the site can be slippery.

We’ll be pulling up balsam in among nettles and brambles so please wear long sleeves and trousers and bring gloves and eye protection if you have them. Midge spray is also advisable!

Please bring along your own refreshments for the break, and as always dress appropriately for the weather.

All training will be provided so no experience is necessary.

We look forward to seeing you all!