The Waterloo Wombles moved into action to clear two ginnels in Ashton.

The community volunteers got into gear after the clean-up and trim down of overgrown undergrowth was organised by Ashton Waterloo councillor Cllr Vimal Choksi, MBE.

They were also supported and joined  by Cllr Sangita Patel, Cllr Jean Drennan and ex-civic mayor Leigh Drennan along with other community volunteers.

They cleared an alleyway and overgrown hedges on the Crowhill Estate  between Crowhill Road and Lakeside Avenue, which had become impassable due to a severely overgrown hedge.

The lane had become unusable for some older residents and difficult for wheelchair users.

The team also cut back overgrown hedges on the mid corner section of Kendal Avenue which was blocking a view for approaching traffic from the Bowness Road.

Cllr Choksi said: “The usual procedure would be report an issue like this to the housing association responsible, but as the residents claimed that it had already been reported - and the ginnel was still impassable as well as overgrowth on Kendal Avenue, we decided to act fast for the benefit of residents.

“I managed to call in a favour to source a set of hedge cutters and other equipment needed for the job and called on the community to get involved.”

After spending a few hours, the volunteers had cut back the hedge, and bagged the cuttings and clean the passage, making the alleyway accessible once more.

Local residents were thrilled with the community spirit, and delighted to be able to use the ginnel again.

The councillors added: “We want to thank local residents for bringing this to our attention, and also the local community volunteers for giving up their free time.”

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