CONSERVATION work may not be a traditional stag weekend activity, but that is exactly what one group of friends decided to do when they visited the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park recently.

The group of 20 men, who met at Cardiff University Mountaineering Club as students, helped National Park Authority Ranger Ian Meopham remove Himalayan Balsam that had inundated a former millpond near the village of Porthgain.

One of the best men, David Webb said: “I know stag dos have a bad reputation for going to big cities and causing carnage and not doing anything good, so we wanted to do something for the community.“

The group, who completed the good deed dressed in suits and novelty beards, were visiting the area to enjoy the coasteering and kayaking opportunities on the coast, but found time in their weekend to help remove the invasive species from a large area of land near the seaside village.

Himalayan Balsam can grow to above head-height spreading quickly. It smothers other native vegetation as it grows, especially on riverbanks and wasteland, but can also invade gardens.

Ranger Ian Meopham added: “It was fantastic to have the help of such a large group of enthusiastic volunteers as it’s important to pull this highly invasive plant before it seeds.

“This is our third year trying to get rid of Himalayan Balsam here in Porthgain but it’s a gradual process. I’m hopeful this year to be able to clear the whole catchment.

“We’re lucky to have the help of all kinds of groups who help us conserve the National Park’s natural beauty and wildlife and I’m looking forward to working with groups including students from Atlantic College and the Friends of the National Park in the near future.”