UPDATE
29th October 2008

Congratulations to Richard and Margaret Smythe on the birth of a 3 month old baby girl named Isabelle (ok, well actually Margaret did the birthing bit while Richard handed out the organic cigar substitutes, and ok she wasn't 3 months old at the time but the news has only just reached Rick). Best wishes to the Family Smythe on their happy event from all members of BCV, we hope to see Isabelle out on task just as soon as she has learned to swing a  mell.

 10th October 2008

Its a month of change at the BCV website. Long time BCV member Gary Wright is stepping down as our e-mail point of contact after many years of valuable and much appreciated service. Gary is leaving the post because he is returning to Belfast to look after his 87 years old father; all our best wishes go with you, Gary.

Lynn Entwistle, our Social Secretary, has now taken over from Gary as our point of contact for volunteer info, tasks and walks. Good luck, Lynn.

More recent news can be found in the minutes of our October Meeting located on the Links & Downloads page.

 28th August 2008

Congrats to Katy Midgley on passing her GCSEs with 10  yes 10  'A*'.  Well done from all at BCV.

13th August 2008

 BCV would like to thank Stephen H. Smith Garden and Leisure Centre, Radcliffe Road, Bradley Fold, Bolton for their generous discount on pond liners.

Thanks also to Wildings Photographic, Bolton for assistance with the new group camera.

Thanks, guys

 11th July 2008

The BCV were at Seddon Fold Farm, Lostock on 11/07/08 to commemorate two of our departed members, Richard McFarlane and Jim Johnston.

 Richard McFarlane, better known as Bolton comedian, Hovis Presley, died in June 2005. He was a long time supporter of the BCV and raised funds for the group through his concerts. Jim Johnston died in August 2006 and was a very active and much loved member of the BCV fulfilling many roles within the group.

 Both Richard and Jim bequeathed funds to the BCV which were used to create a hedgerow at Seddon Fold Farm, Lock Lane, Lostock. In memory of their contribution the group decided to install a plaque at the farm's gates . The event was attended by members of the BCV, Richard’s Mother, Winnie and Jim’s daughter’s, Joy and Sally and their families. See the Task Photo Gallery for pictures.

 7th June 2008

Last year BCV tools officer, Fred Lovell collected one million yellow rattle seeds from Doffcocker Lodge. His plan was to introduce these parasitic plants to the meadow at Chew Moor and reduce the dominance of ryegrass at the site. One August morning after lovingly preparing the seed for distribution, Fred conscripted a dozen BCV members for sowing duties. The seed was scattered to Fred's instructions and then trampled into the ground by 24 hammering feet.

26th February 2008
Blackleach Country Park Local Nature Reserve, Walkden played host to the Bolton Conservation Volunteers 5^th annual Dr John Leather Hedge Laying Competition.

The event was jointly organised by Rick Parker, BCV Chairman, and Blackleach Warden, Richard Marshall. The constest itself is held in memory of the late Dr John Leather, a retired Bolton GP. Dr Leather, who passed away in 2003, was a keen conservationist and enthusiastic hedge layer. The contest was established as a way of commemorating his passion for this traditional countryside skill and also to encourage others to participate in its practice.