the journey
The project began in March 2021. The clearance work was the first task to take place , this was required around the whole perimeter of the complex in preparation for the fencing to be installed.
The clearance involved the cut back of hedges and shrubbery, removal of certain trees that many were already being attacked by tree rot or had become dangerously unstable. These became a danger to wildlife and our members, therefore took priority.
Old trees were cut up as logs for firewood where possible and other debris were made into several bonfires as the project progressed.
The clearance provided clearer, larger and safer tracks for our members while maintaining plenty of natural habitat for the wildlife that also takes home at Linch Hill.
Once the first part of the clearance was complete, this allowed the installation of the fencing to commence.
A staggering total of 1,600 posts to be individually put in. Each post was hand painted in Green to help blend in around the complex.
Further clearance was then carried out in sections as they went along, spanning across all three lakes including the stock pond.
The fencing started out by the entrance gates whereby 3ft holes had to be dug to slot the posts in, then filled in with concrete to secure them safely. Nick and Dave (Johno) made there way around the perimeter, panel by panel , post by post.
They faced many challenges during this project, one of them being the inevitable and unpredictable UK weather. Storm Eunice and Storm Dudley hit, undoing a lot of their hard work due to fallen trees. However perseverance prevailed and they carried on, fixing the damages and re erecting the fallen panels.
Fast forward to 22nd November 2022… the last fence panel and post was secured.
However The Otter Fence is not yet complete as it now requires a return to be fitted in order for it to serve its full purpose. This is the next task ahead.
So far this is an incredible achievement, which we are immensely proud of. Not only does it provide security for the fishery but a safer environment for the much loved Carp it holds. We hope this will improve the longevity and quality of life for the Carp here at Linch Hill.
3rd July 2023 the fence is now complete. After the last fence post was installed, wire netting was required the fitted around the perimeter of the fencing and then covered to prevent anything digging through underneath it. The fencing is now able to serve its full purpose and protect the future of Linch Hills Carp.