Trimmings from a leyandii, or other coniferous, hedge. Yours or a neighbours.

Couch grass is the worst problem. I bought a push
mower that was light to take in the car boot, and kept
them mowed every week, all summer. I wouldnt have
put rubbish on them, easy to slip on it in the wet weather.

Woodchip, as it's usually free from tree surgeons (it saves them dumping it for a charge)?

I added to this that I wouldnt use plastic, as its slippery
especially in wet/frosty weather.
Mown grass is best, Vibram soles on boots grip it.

Thanks all. I've been asking around for surplus wood chip but in this area they seemed to have cottoned on that there is money to be made and the prices I've been quoted are ridiculous.

i use old carpets cut to size picked up from skips etc, (synthetic )is best as they wont rot. lifted and turned over every year.

Thanks again for taking the time you answer.