Work day Sunday 11th September 2011

Fortunately the weather was dry for most of the day. We split into three groups this time. One group repairing and replacing the fencing which was burnt a few weeks ago by the overnight camping 'fishermen'. The second group set about finishing off the steps that we've been working on for several months. Almost complete now, we just need to put some 'sides' on a few steps to retain the hogging. The 3rd group worked in the walled garden, digging up potatoes which, with the kind permission of Havering Council, were to be sold in the Essex Wildlife Trust visitors' centre and the money to go into their funds. For those of you interested, there is a small video clip on Youtube of some of our younger 'helpers' digging spuds, cut and paste the following link into your browser to view - www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRxvh7RKXJY

some pics from the day:

September Works Party

Our next work party is due on Sunday 11th September, starting @ 10.00 in the visitors' centre. Please try to come along. Various jobs to be done including litter picking (not very strenuous) to finishing off our steps, which can be as strenuous as you want it to be ! Strong footwear recommended for the steps work and maybe wet weather gear, just in case !

'Fishermen' Damage Our Park

Many apologies for not updating the blog for a few months.

We've recently had instances of so called fishermen camping by the lake. They've torn down and burnt a length of chestnut paling fence that 'The Friends' put up a few months ago to protect the wildlife along one side of the lake. Yesterday (31st August) the remains of yet another fire were found together with an old 'duvet' which had been thrown on top of it and lots of drinks cans. This time branches had been broken off to be burnt. The cans have been cleared up by a good friend of the park. The Parks Protection Service have visited the park at least twice during the last week and have apprehended several of these so called 'fishermen'. CAMPING in the park is NOT ALLOWED, as are FIRES.

I hope to have some updates and photos soon ...............