Neglected gooseberry and black current bushes

We had exactly the same thing, and probably neglected for about the same amount of time. We cut them hard back, simply because they were so infested with brambles it was impossible to tell what was bush and what was bramble.

So far they have re-grown with enthusiasm, though no flower or fruit this year. Gooseberries you would not expect fruit on new wood, blackcurrents should have some sign of fruit. Nothing on either. I will give them till next season and if no luck remove them and start again.

It would have been sensible to start with new bushes anyway but we had lots to do and took the easiest route.