The essential work continues

February 2026 

I always really enjoy my time at the park. However, helping to maintain this beautiful sanctuary does require a lot of unvaried work (so apologies if my journal sometimes sounds the same).

Now that the bank has been cleared, it was time to plant some hazel.

Matt joined us to chainsaw some of the larger trees close to the fence-line, plus others in the bank which were too big for our pruning saws.

A week later, I was involved in clearing away some recently felled yew trees near to one of the entrances in the east woods. This was a case of dragging the branches into the undergrowth to degrade naturally.

We then spent the afternoon mulching the planted bed that was cleared last month.

The east woodland path had turned into sludge due to all the rain and frequent footfall. We had a really squelchy time clearing back overgrown holly along this route. However, this helped to widen the path making it easier for walkers.

It goes without saying that there are lots of litter picking in between. 

There was more clearing and mulching of planted beds, this time by the Spixworth Road entrance.

Whilst there, we noticed that some of the trees had become encrusted with ivy, so sections of it were removed to halt the spread and kill off the upper reaches.

March 2026

The ornamental wrought iron gates, piers and railings by the South Lodge entrance are a treasured part of Catton Park history. 

Designed by Barnard, Bishop and Barnard of Norwich c1860 (famous for the Norwich Gates of Sandringham Estate), these are annually pressure washed and painted where necessary to keep them looking at their best.

Any damage to these would prove extremely costly (as you can imagine).

Unfortunately, one of the piers has been hit and is currently awaiting repairs.

As you can see, the damaged pier has twisted on impact and needs resetting.

To prevent further problems, it has been necessary to install bollards to keep vehicles from parking too close.

 

There was an interesting change for my next visit....

Matt had volunteered our assistance for a local community project at Swansgate park.

We met with several other volunteers and community members to plant an avenue of trees along the footpaths.

There was a variety of about 22 trees in total, but with our combined effort, all of the planting was completed by lunchtime (despite the strong winds).

It was lovely meeting other dedicated, community spirited people.

Matt, Tabby and myself still had time for a bit of mulching back at Catton Park in the afternoon!

Who knows what I might be doing next time!