By Pam McClounie

Last updated 11:36, Monday, 12 May 2008

A MODERN day group of volunteer soldiers have helped to carry out much needed maintenance work at Cawfields on Hadrian’s Wall.

The last post: Soldiers from 23 Pioneer Regiment, based at Bicester, Oxfordshire, remove an old concrete and wire fence near the Sheepmount Stadium, Carlisle. They have spent the week travelling along the Hadrian’s Wall Path carrying out repairs before walking he length of it to raise donations for the Army Benevolent Fund

The work, which involved repairs to brick walls, pathways and fences and was undertaken by 23rd Pioneer Regiment of The Royal Logistics Corps.

Dr Nigel Mills, director World Heritage and Access from Hadrian’s Wall Heritage Ltd, said: “We’re delighted to help welcome the modern day version of the army back to Hadrian’s Wall.

“Hadrian’s Wall Heritage Ltd was keen to undertake this work at Cawfields in partnership with site owners, English Heritage.

“It is fantastic that the Royal Logistics Corps has volunteered time and energy to help maintain this valuable piece of history.”

The maintenance work, which took place over four days and covered sites from Newcastle to Carlisle, is being followed by a five-day charity walk, starting today.

This will see over 400 members of the regiment walk the Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail, starting in Bowness-on-Solway and ending at Segedunum Roman Fort in Wallsend.

Michael Constantine, assistant visitor operations director at English Heritage, said: “We welcome the work that Hadrian’s Wall Heritage Ltd and volunteers from the Royal Logistics Corps have undertaken to improve the visitor experience of the Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail.

“We worked closely with them on maintenance tasks, such as repairing eroded footpaths, that will help spread footfall on the Trail and help minimise erosion.”

“This is another positive example of working in partnership with our colleagues to tackle issues before they become big problems.”

For more information about Hadrian’s Wall call 01434 322 002 or visit www.hadrian-wall.org.