IT’S just one of the things we do at Valeways the charity for walking, footpaths and fun in the Vale of Glamorgan.

All summer long Valeways volunteers, in collaboration with local community groups, schools and businesses, have been chopping away - armed with their loppers and shears, attacking both under and overgrowth to remove blockages along public footpaths, to liberate stiles and steps from the green grip of brambles and stinging nettles - so that we, the public, are free to enjoy our beautiful Welsh countryside, just strolling along or walking it off if you like.

So, did you know that you can contact Valeways about any ‘green’ obstructions you encounter on your walks?

Well, Derek the Weatherman and his crew certainly knew: As part of their preparations to film the new series of Weatherman Walking they called upon Valeways’ expertise of their very own Millennium Heritage Trail, a 100 km long circular walk in 16 sections that takes in the whole of the Vale.

Soon enough a suitable walk was identified and Valeways’ task force got on its way: Volunteer Coordinator Mark Rosoman and the Tuesday group went out and cleared the path, because that’s just one of the things you can do when you’re a Valeways volunteer.

Finally, all that was left was to go back on the day of filming and get a picture for the archives.

If you want to volunteer with Valeways, make a donation or just want to find out more information on Walking in the Vale, contact them on 01446 749000 or at Valeways email: info@valeways.org.uk , follow them on www.facebook.com/valeways or visit www.valeways.org.uk for a list of guided walks for all abilities.