Saltholme has had a Willow Maze for the last couple of years and now, in February, is the best time to maintain it. We have to close it in winter as it would get too muddy and this gives us the chance to do the work of trimming off last year's growth - which can be three metres!

Today our Phoenix Group - the active teenage members - came to help. Weaving in where there were bare patches and cutting off the long growths. In addition there are gates which we use for access for the mower and these needed filling with fresh willow.

A satisfying task on a bright winter's day.

At the start of summer, when the willow is again green (and I have had the chance to mow the grass) we will open it again. If you don't know the reserve then the Maze is off the adventure playground and equally popular with families.

Thanks to the Phoenix Group for their hard work.