COMMUNITY spirit was on show in Rusland as volunteers came together for a festive bash with a difference.

Rusland Horizons organised the event, which was in part a celebration and in part a conservation work party.

Those in attendance undertook tasks that had been requested by members of the community in order to improve the local landscape.

Colin Barr, chair of Rusland Horizons said: “It was great that we could respond to ideas from the local residents and carry out work that was really needed on the ground. It was immensely enjoyable and generated a great feeling of empowerment."

The groups worked to improve inaccessible footpaths, build a bridge over a beck, fix some wall gaps in a field and coppice a small woodland.

In total they coppiced 250 square meters of woodland, built five metres of stone wall, improved nearly four km of footpath and built one ‘Big Bash Bridge’.

Miles Dickenson, a local landowner said: “An extra pair of hands was grand as owt. Thanks to everyone who helped clear the path. You can come again anytime!"

Later on in the day, the team headed to the Manor House at Oxen Park for mulled wine and hot stew.

Between now and 2019, the Rusland Horizons scheme will be delivering a range of activities, aiming to record, restore, manage and celebrate the heritage, wildlife and wooded landscape of the Rusland Valley and Fells.

Conservation work parties are planned with Rusland Horizons throughout the year. To find out more or attend a taster day just go to the ‘What’s on’ page at www.ruslandhorizons.org.uk