Walking

Heritage Way Rangers have improved a long-standing damp section between Wildersley Farm and the Holly Bush pub in Milford. Drainage ditches and stepping stones now make the path easier to use.

East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward included part of the Derwent Valley Heritage Way in her 150-mile walking and cycling circuit of the region. Trust chair Derek Latham joined her for the section from Derby’s Museum of Making to Little Eaton.

The Trust is working with Catherine Atkinson MP to make the case for the Derwent as a National River Walk. The proposal would connect Derby, the World Heritage Site and the Peak District, and has attracted support from MPs, councils, regional organisations and environmental partners.

Tom Wright and Timothy Moffatt completed the full Derwent Valley Heritage Way in under 17 hours, raising money for the University of Sheffield’s student hardship fund. The Trust congratulates them on an exceptional end-to-end effort.

Heritage Way Rangers’ summer inspections found the route generally in excellent condition. Volunteers dealt with fallen branches, vegetation, litter, minor erosion and missing waymarkers to keep the 55-mile trail clear and well signed.

Friends of the Derwent walked the 56 miles from Ladybower Reservoir to Derwent Mouth to raise awareness of pollution in the River Derwent. The pilgrimage included a gathering at Belper River Gardens along the way.

The footbridge across the River Derwent at Darley Abbey has been closed for the foreseeable future. A well-signposted diversion is in place, with thanks to Lubrizol for providing the signs.