Jarn Mound, Boars Hill - 17th August 2024

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Blog by Eleanor, photos by Sally, Kevin, Michele, Julio and Eleanor

This Saturday we were at Jarn Mound, Boars Hill, part of the Oxford Preservation Trust portfolio. Jarn Mound was created in the early 20th century, as a means of employing people during the Depression. The earth dug out formed the mound and the resulting pit became the sunken garden. There is a steep flight of quite deep steps to the top and the climb was originally meant to afford a view of Oxford, but the trees have grown up since and blocked the view.

The mound

View from the railings at the top

From the top, down to our encampment

We were also joined by a Duke of Edinburgh's Award student and his father.

Our main task was to rake the cut vegetation down from the slopes and pile it up at the base of the mound. Some people worked on the steps, cutting vegetation from the sides.

Before - loads of work to do!

Raking the mound

Barbara, Rhian and Carolyn with rakes

Susan raking

Roger, Graham and Olivia pitchforking

Working on the steps

A badger sett on the mound

There were also tree branches to be cut, by our D of E student

...and by slightly older volunteers

We were certainly ready for our tea break

Olivia had brought a cake.  Sadly, this was a farewell cake as she is leaving for the Isle of Skye, to study Gaelic and her Gaelic roots.

Olivia's cake

Olivia on the slope (practising for the Cuillins?)

Some other tasks were to clear cut reeds from the base of the mound and pile them into a wall at the end. Rod d'Ayala, who was directing us, plans to make a barrier from the peaty soil. Ours not to reason why.

The cleared reeds piled at the end

Clearing along the bridleway

"After" photo of the mound


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