Work continues apace on the Summer Lightning trail at Coldharbour with another building day set for Sunday March 9th. With the first section of trail bedding in nicely and quickly gaining popularity with riders, work has begun on a climb from Coldharbour village to link with the start of the existing trail.

A visit from Ian Warby of Aston Hill (www.astonhill.com) gave the Surrey builders a chance to hone their skills at a workshop held earlier this month. Ian walked the length of the existing trail offering feedback on his impressions of the work so far and adding suggestions as to how it might be fine-tuned to offer better draining and greater durability. A detailed look at Ian’s findings will be posted on www.justridingalong.com but builders can
rest assured that Ian declared himself impressed with the bulk of the work carried out so far.

Again with Ian’s assistance work was started in carving a climb out of the steep woodland adjoining Wolvens Lane. This will eventually link up with the original trailhead further up the lane and then onto the start of the existing trail and will be the focus of the building day on the 9th.

Meanwhile if you’re looking to come along and ride Summer Lightning yourself be warned that logging operations are imminent and will result in the trail being closed for a limited period – look out for signs on the ground. Work is also underway to formalise the Redlands club and organise into a body capable of lobbying and working with local landowners to ensure the best deal for riders in this popular and sometimes overcrowded riding spot.

To that end Redlands representatives will be surveying riders, walkers and horseriders at Leith Hill Tower this weekend to see how future projects can be tailored to suit everybody’s needs and avoid potential conflict.

For more information see www.justridingalong.com or call Rebecca Milbourn on
01306 887923.