This month volunteers from the Friends of the Guild Wheel cleared the path at Sandyforth Lane in Fulwood to improve access for walkers and cyclists.

The 23-strong team cut back overgrown vegetation, cleared debris and picked litter, as part of their regular monthly task day to ensure the Guild Wheel remains safe and accessible to the public.

Re-formed in 2020 and culminating in previous volunteer groups associated with the Preston Guild Wheel, the group aims to provide a resource to help preserve and maintain the Preston Guild Wheel.

Read more: Health services must be provided closer to Preston city centre, says council leader

Held every second Sunday of each month, the volunteer group’s task day pinpoints an area of the Guild Wheel to clear the path and ensure it is safe and accessible. 

Heather Waddington, secretary of the Friends of the Guild Wheel, whose father, Mike, was one of the founders behind the project said: “Our November task day saw a record number of volunteers turn out to help, we hope this continues with further task days planned.

“I am so proud of dad’s legacy and the work we do to ensure this wonderful community resource continues to be maintained, improved and protected from developments since it was opened in 2012.”

Read more: Rural parts of Lancashire risked being overlooked if councils are scrapped

The Preston Guild Wheel is a 21-mile circular route that encompasses an area around Preston city centre. 

It was created mainly from existing public rights of way, with its route passing through natural woodland, farmland, river and canal side paths, city parks, country lanes and quiet housing areas. 

Co-created by Peter Ward and Mike Atkins, it was opened in August 2012 as part of the city’s Guild celebrations and has since become a popular circuit for cyclists and walkers from both the local community and visitors to the city.

If you would like to take part in a Friends of the Guild Wheel task day or would like to provide support regarding its preservation, please contact friendsoftheguildwheel@gmail.com.

Subscribe: Keep in touch directly with the latest headlines from Blog Preston, join our WhatsApp channel and subscribe for our twice-a-week email newsletter. Both free and direct to your phone and inbox.

Read more: See the latest Preston news and headlines