Cut

I braved the windchill for 10 minutes at lunchtime to walk about and inspect the changes at the Peak District National Park Visitor centre at Torside.

Many trees have been felled. Some obvious areas needed thining out but its much more than that and many large trees have gone. The views from the car park and surrounding area have changed significantly.

The 'overflow car park' area now has clear views to the North side of Longdendale so those using picnic tables will have better views but less shelter. A group of mostly youngsters were 'enjoying' a picnic while I was there and this in a feels like -3 windchill. They are tough around here.

I really think the sign should say 'picnic area' as its over a decade since the overflow car park was usable - its so wet that bog snorkelling is nearly an option.

The slash cut across this fallen pine caught the eye - I remember when that tree was only knee high.