A Day of Adventure with TPT Sustrans Sheffield Volunteers

Discovering Community Spirit and Nature’s Beauty
Imagine spending a day surrounded by nature’s beauty while making a positive impact. That’s exactly what we experienced with the passionate TPT/Sustrans Sheffield volunteers last week. It was a day filled with teamwork, discovery, and a deep appreciation for our environment.         

Our adventure kicked off at Russell’s Bike Shed in Meadowhall, where we met five enthusiastic volunteers; Gerry, Simon, David, Jon and George, including Sarah and Karen from Sustrans.

Before hitting the Trail, Simon, our acting lead for the day, gave us an exclusive tour of Russell’s Bike Shed cycle hub. This fantastic facility offers storage for up to 40 bikes and a cargo bike, along with handy amenities like a maintenance stand and air pump, all for a £5 monthly fee.

A 15-minute walk brought us to our work spot on the Trail at Blackburn Meadows. Along the way, Simon kept us informed about the exciting active travel schemes planned around Sheffield. Seeing these routes in person was a fantastic way to connect with the projects we often discuss on maps. 

Our work area for the day was a picturesque section of the Trail alongside the River Don, heading towards Rotherham. Equipped with shears, loppers, and a broom (for Hannah), we eagerly set to work clearing the encroaching vegetation. 

Cyclists, walkers, and wheelchair users passed by, many stopping to chat and express their gratitude. It was a heart-warming reminder of the significance of our volunteers efforts. 

After a couple of hours of hard work, we took a well-deserved break. Gerry, Sheffield’s Group Coordinator, treated us to some delicious cake and surprised Simon with a special presentation to celebrate his retirement as TPT/Sustrans Sheffield Group Coordinator.

With nearly 40 years of volunteering under his hat (30 years with Sustrans and TPT), Simon’s dedication was honoured with the presentation of golden secateurs by Sarah Donnelly, Sustrans Volunteer Manager. Hannah also gifted him a coveted TPT neck warmer, which Simon humorously demonstrated in various ways.     

Refreshed and inspired, we resumed our tasks. Simon tackled the high overhanging branches with long-handled loppers teaching both of us on how to operate the tool with safety.

During the session, Gerry and Sarah educated us about invasive species like Himalayan Balsam and Japanese Knotweed, which we spotted along the Trail. They also pointed out some of the more appealing wild flora such as Oxeye/Dog Daisies, Ragged Robin and Knapweed.      

As the day came to a close, we retraced our steps and stopped at the M&S Foodhall in Meadowhall for a well-deserved treat. It was a perfect ending to an active and fulfilling day  

After exchanging final farewells, we headed back to the office, reflecting on the productive hours spent trimming, lopping, litter picking, sweeping and chatting in Sheffield 

This wasn’t just a day of volunteering; it was a celebration of community spirit, a connection to nature, and a shared dedication to keeping the TPT vibrant and welcoming for everyone. The day reminded us of the power of teamwork and the joy of giving back—a story that will hopefully inspire others to join in and help keep the Trail alive!

A big thank you to Simon and Gerry for organising the day and for the wonderful cake, and to Sarah, Karen, and all the volunteers for a wonderfully productive morning. 

Date: 23rd May 2025

         
 Hannah Beaumont    Robert Drummond