Put the Pedal to the Nettle

On a bright and warm summer morn the Brompton employees assembled, ready to lend a hand to Horsenden Hill Farm. Where conservation, community and education intersect through an incredible batch of jovial volunteers.

We pootled down the canal and through the park, after a few navigational hesitations, heading cross country in parts and up a hill that we didn't need to summit, all good training, right? Warmly greeted on arrival we were then given a lovely tour of the farm, saying hello to the chickens, goats and pigs - and also marvelling at the size and quality of the operation before us. Did I mention it's all volunteer led, well asides from one paid ranger. We split into two groups; nettle whackers and fence erectors.

My group used shears and clippers to cut back an overgrown section between a poly-tunnel and a shed, creating space for some composting manure. Braving the stings we tore back the weeds amongst various flowing conversation. The other team thought they got off nettle free, but as it transpires... they did not. As I went to check in they were deep in the bush whacking back much overgrowth, by the time I went back they had also installed some fencing on the perimeter. Excellent work! As one of you said "really didn't fancy this when I showed up but it was actually pretty good" - words to that effect.

It was a pleasure sharing the morning with you, and hats off for the difference you made. Check out your local GoodGym if a healthy dose of weekly exercise, volunteering and socialising sounds like your thing.

Brahma