WHEN a footpath sign on the popular Harrogate to Ilkley link footpath collapsed, Arrietty Heath, the volunteer coordinator for North Yorkshire Council Countryside Access Service asked Lower Wharfedale Ramblers if they would replace it.

The wooden sign was located close to West Moor House Farm and March Ghyll Reservoir, above Middleton. Whilst the post had rotted through, the traditional wooden sign with carved letters was in good condition. The LWR Footpath Maintenance Team decided to replace the post but recycle the sign.

This proved to be a tricky operation as the sign was sandwiched into the top of the old post and held in place with traditional wooden dowels.

Fortunately Peter McLoughlin, a member of the team, is a craftsman joiner. Whilst Richard Brook and Roger Bullen dug a hole for the new post, Peter carefully removed the sign and attached it to the new post, supplied by the Council. The team then installed the new post.

Roger said: “Normally we are left to our own devices on these jobs but the Paisley family from the nearby farm were very helpful. Farmer Joe invited us to park in his yard, so our cars were safe, and his wife, Paula, offered us a cup of tea.”

Richard Brook, who leads the LWR Footpath Team added: “We have always enjoyed a good working relationship with North Yorkshire Council and were delighted to do this job on their behalf.

"Unfortunately all local authorities are facing financial restrictions. Whilst there is no shortage of jobs that need doing, the funding is simply not available. Our team in insured by the Ramblers and, as we have shown at March Ghyll, we have a wide range of skills available. All our work is free. We are happy to work with Parish Councils, village committees, landowners, farmers and other walking groups. If they will fund the materials, we will do the work.”

Richard can be contacted at: footpathmaint@lowerwharfedaleramblers.co.uk