Viaduct ArchThis week's trip was to the relatively local destination of the Healey Dell Nature Reserve in Rochdale. On arrival, the nearly full minibus was welcomed by the ranger, Richard. We were invited in to the rangers' office where we could make use of the facilities and were kindly provided with a hot drink before we enjoyed a very informative slideshow visual tour of the reserve. Following lunch Richard led us on a guided walk around the reserve pointing out the features of interest and patiently letting us stop and botanise as we wished. Healey Dell is a steep sided woodland carved out by the River Spodden and there is much archaelogocical interest due to past association with the textile trade. Key archaeological features include the stone rubbing mill where local stone was rubbed, polished and finished. Th'Owd Mill I'th Thrutch consists of twin bridges which were the site of a 
Broad Leaved Helleborinefulling mill in the 17th century. A disused railway line over a 100 foot viaduct affords fine views of the reserve. The setting with several waterfalls was very beautiful. It was a quiet day with regard to birds - only about 15 were recorded including jays. Dragonflies and damselflies were not evident in the largely dry but cool conditions. However, there was much to see from a botanical perspective. 
ChicoryThe most notable find was broad-leaved helleborine in flower. Numerous common spotted orchids were evident and many had grown very tall. Other interesting finds included dusky cranesbill and a large stand of chicory. 165 plants were recorded 115 of them in flower. 12 ferns/horsetails were noted. 4 butterflies were recorded including small skipper. Although the conditions were cool, it stayed mostly dry with just slight drizzle shortly before we were due to leave, but we had enjoyed a lovely day and we were very grateful to Richard for giving us so much of his time and sharing his knowledge of the reserve.
Sue