Ride Bristol Dig Day – 4th Dec, Afternoon

Hey thanks for volunteering.

Where to meet

Nova Trail. Ashton Court Estate, Long Ashton, BS41 9JN.

Meet at the top of the Quarry Climb of the Nova trail by the gate off Longwood Lane which is at what 3 words location https://what3words.com/social.badge.camera OS grid reference 537 713. Look out for our Dig Leaders in Ride Bristol hi viz vests or our Horse Box tool store

What to expect

We are rebuilding the quarry climb section of the Nova mtb trail from the picnic benches to the top of the climb. Most of the work will be done using machines by our partner, professional trail builder, Velosolutions. We need you to come and help with the final stages of the work.

Work as part of a team to help barrow stone, rake the stone to shape the trail, lay and compact the surface layer and landscape the verges of the trail. Most of the work is physical but don’t worry, if you are fit enough to ride the trails then you will be fine with this. The vibe is about fun, working at a sustainable pace and for those who wish to, developing trail-building skills.

Barrowing, raking and shaping stone aren't however for everyone and we also need volunteers to take photos / videos and engage with the public. Explaining Ride Bristol's mission to increase access to safe traffic-free space for riders of all ages / abilities and how we are the only organisation working and fundraising for Bristol’s trails in this way.

Don't worry if this is your first dig day – The Velosolutions team and our dig leaders will be on hand to show you what to do and to offer friendly advice. We will provide tools and materials. You don't need any specialist skills to be useful. No experience is necessary but be ready for work and hopefully having an enjoyable time.

Tips and advice for getting the most out of the day

1. Clothing; Wear something that you don't mind getting dirty. Wear sturdy boots and bring gloves - eg gardening or building gloves. Wear your mtb glasses for some eye protection. Dress appropriately for the weather -eg bring waterproofs, sunscreen, insect repellent etc.

2. Bring water and snacks.

3. Arrive a few minutes early.

Important info

Individual volunteers must be aged 18 or over. Volunteers aged 14 or over are also welcome but only if they are supervised by an accompanying adult. If you book a place and then find that you cannot attend - Please cancel your booking on Eventbrite so that we know you are not coming and can free up your space for someone else.

Toilet facilities

The nearest toilets are at the two cafes in Ashton Court, ie at the mansion and adjacent to Pedal Progression.

Bike Security

Ideally, bring a lock or keep the bike near where you are working. We can put some bikes in our Horse Box tool store.

Questions ??

Want to help, but are unsure of aspects of the work? Coming as a group and want to work together. Anything you need to ask, message aW5mbyB8IHJpZGVicmlzdG9sICEgb3Jn.

Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Long Ashton.