On Saturday 31st August 2024, GVCV convened in Rodborough (near Stroud) for the annual Hay Day Social.
16 volunteers spent a sunny morning raking to remove cut grass from a limestone meadow. This is important to maintain the low nutrient levels needed by rare plant species found on meadows in the local area. The group also cut back encroaching tree branches and brambles which can easily smother the meadow – alongside of spot of blackberry collection.
With many hands the day was also an opportunity to harvest local hops which were donated to Stroud Brewery as part of their Hop Club.
For their efforts, the group we treated to a free lunch time BBQ including local Winstone’s Ice Cream.
Hay day raking in the sunshine
Group after a morning of hard work
Hop picking for Stroud Brewery …. many hands make light work