As yesterday was 17th March it was fitting that we were working on Paddy's Pool island preparing for the return of the Common Terns.
The island is covered with a landscape fabric, then gravel topped with cockle shell. In the winter the geese make quiet a mess and the effect is to fertilise the island and let lots of weeds grow - but the terns like a bare area for nesting.
Out with the boat, on with the pump and wash as much of the island as possible. Then new fabric which is covered with the clean gravel and new, clean shells put on the surface.
With me on the pump and James and Ed raking - the Great Saltholme Rake-off as one volunteer said - we will get the job done.
Thanks to Ian for the photo.