Underneath the arches

Checking what could be the longest willow tunnel in the country are Graham Appleby and Keith Kendall, chairman and vice-chairman of Sheffield's Rivelin Valley Conservation Group, who said he got the idea after seeing a similar creation while on holiday in Cornwall.

By The Newsroom

Published 14th Jun 2010, 14:25 BST

Updated 14th Jun 2010, 14:25 BST

Group members planted just fewer than 1,000 willow whips to create the tunnel, which measures just over 165ft long, at Rivelin Mill.

Mr Kendall said: 'At the moment it's in its infancy but, within the next couple of years, it will grow and we'll start interweaving the willows within themselves.

'We believe this is probably the longest willow tunnel in the country."

Sheffield Council awarded the conservation group a grant to create the tunnel, which cost around 700. The willow whips were provided by Kings Barn Trees of Cowford, West Sussex, who also provided technical help and advice.

A Rivelin Valley Conservation Group spokesman said: 'We hope within a year or two this feature will be a regular visiting point for visitors to the valley, as will the new pond, dipping platform, outdoor classroom and picnic area at Rivelin Mill.'

Picture: Chris Lawton.