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The Nickey Line

Friends of the Nickey Line

Objectives of the Organisation

Approximately 7 miles long, the Nickey Line footpath and cycle way is a former railway line which still links Harpenden, Redbourn and Hemel Hempstead. It is used now by walkers, runners and cyclists locally plus occasionally railway history enthusiasts from many parts of the country. It was opened as a footpath / cycleway in 1985 and is part of Sustrans national cycle route 57.


Friends of the Nickey Line work with local councils and other organisations to maintain and improve the Nickey Line as well as to encourage greater use and enjoyment by both local communities and visitors.



Volunteers Required

1. Working Party Volunteers


The Friends have an active group of volunteers who attend our monthly work parties which are held over the winter months. We keep the views open at appropriate locations along the pathway, and manage the strip of open land alongside Knott Wood to improve it for flowers and butterflies. We coppice hazels each year to promote new growth, which can be used for when we lay hedges.


A key part of the work parties is enjoyment, and you will be guaranteed a warm welcome. One does not have to commit for the day, even an hour or two is welcomed - as they say, every little helps!


Contact Roger on 01582 763560 to find out more. 


2. Committee Members


The Friends of the Nickey Line have been active for nearly ten years, and with the support of our members we have been able to make a difference, and improve the pathway as an amenity. However, we need to attract new committee members, as a number of our existing committee were already retired at the time of our formation -  and younger blood is needed to ensure our future viability and to bring in fresh ideas and enthusiasm. For example, one area where we could do more is in activities for children.


The committee meets about 5 times a year in the evening with dates agreed at the previous meeting usually. Time commitment can be as much or as little as you can spare.


If you are interested in helping us keep  the Nickey Line as a valued local amenity, please pick up the phone and speak to our Chairman, Dave Abernethy (07788 198283).


3. Event Support Volunteers


Even if you do not wish to commit to being a committee member, there are other times during the year when we need volunteers, such as manning stalls or helping with usage surveys.  Please add your name to our volunteer list!



Contact Details

Work parties: Contact Roger on 01582 763560 to find out more.


Other enquiries: Email friends@nickeyline.org or ring Chairman Dave Abernethy on 07788 198283 or 01582 622771


Website:  www.nickeyline.org