Walking on Sunshine

Staff and young people at Somerset House and our Outreach services have been making the most of the lovely sunny weather!

Staff planned a day trip to Dovestone Reservoir which lies at the convergence of the valleys of the Greenfield and Chew Brooks above the village of Greenfield, on Saddleworth Moor.

It was explained to everyone how the reservoir provides drinking water to the surrounding area. Additionally, they learned about the history of Dovestone Reservoir, including how the Neo-Gothic mansion at Ashway Gap on the south side of the valley was built in 1850 and used as a shooting lodge until it was left vacant after an unfortunate shooting accident involving the owner’s brother.

The waterworks board, which acquired the mansion in 1870, offered it for use as a hospital during World War I. The building was then demolished in 1981. The steps of Ashway Gap House, near Celebration Wood, are all that remain of this once-grand Victorian shooting lodge. Britain’s fastest bird, Peregrine Falcons, also reside withing the boundaries of the reservoir.

The young people enjoyed one of the several walks amongst picturesque landscapes, and they were all amazed by the beautiful scenery it had to offer.