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The Nene Park Trust's biannual magazine packed with articles and full events listings.
Citation preview
this issueP5BrowniesChallenge
P4Pedal Power� P6
Events &Activities
P2More than justFerry Meadows
P10Red Kites
P11Feedingthe flames
P9Hedgelaying
P8Willow Project
Welcome to the second edition of
Parklife, Nene Park Trust’s newsletter.
The newsletter of Nene Park Trust, Peterborough WINTER 08 | ISSUE 2Parklife
www.neneparktrust.org.uk
We received some great feedback
about our first edition earlier in
the summer, including lots of ideas
for future articles and over 500
requests to join the Parklife mailing
list. If you would like to receive a
copy directly by post or email,
please contact us using the details
on page 2.
Despite the disappointing weather
over the summer months, it was
great to see so many people
enjoying our events programme.
When the sun shone, we
experienced some of our busiest
days ever at Ferry Meadows.
However, although we are probably
best known for the country park
we provide at Ferry Meadows,
there is in fact a lot more to Nene
Park Trust. The article on pages
2 and 3 explains more.
In the past few weeks, you may
have noticed, or even participated
in, our visitor survey. The full results
will be featured in our next edition,
but some early feedback is set out
on page 5. Whilst most of the
comments have been very positive
and encouraging, it is clear that weneed to do more to publicise ourwork, as only 35% of visitors wereaware of our events programme.We will be using all the results ofthe survey, as well as the ongoingfeedback we receive from yourcomments cards, to consider a longterm strategic plan for Nene ParkTrust next year.
Behind the scenes, it has beena busy few months at the Trust’soffice as we reviewed our staffstructure and identified how wecould improve it for the future.Through this, our aim is to lookat widening our existing workin education, promotion andcommunity related events.Look out for more on this infuture editions of Parklife.
Finally, when visiting FerryMeadows over the next fewmonths, why not call in to ourVisitor Centre - it will now be openevery weekend throughout thewinter.
James McCulloch,Chief Executive, Nene Park Trust
contents2 More than just Ferry Meadows
4 Pedal Power
5 Brownies Challenge
6 Events and Activities
8 Willow Project
9 Hedgelaying
10 Red Kites at Nene Park
11 Feeding the Flames
We hope you enjoy reading this editionof Park Life.
If you would like to make any comments orgo on our mailing list to receive informationabout the Park and future editions of ParkLife, please write or email to the VisitorServices Officer at the address below.
Contact: Chris Park, Visitor Services OfficerTelephone: 01733 234443Address: Nene Park Trust, Ham Farm House, Ham Lane,Peterborough PE2 5UUEmail: [email protected]: www. neneparktrust.org.uk
Park Life is published by Nene Park Trust, Peterborough and producedby Connaught Media, Sound and Vision Specialists (tel. 01733 555163),www.connaught-media.co.uk. When you have finished reading it,please recycle it.
Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material publishedin Park Life. Nene Park Trust and the Publishers cannot acceptresponsibility for claims made by advertisers or contributors andany subsequent liability. The views expressed are not necessarilythose of Nene Park Trust or the Publishers. All rights reserved.
�
Nene Park Trust is probably best known forits 500-acre country park at Ferry Meadows.
However, there is also a lot more that theTrust provides and is involved with in thePeterborough area, as its Chief ExecutiveJames McCulloch explains.
Nene Park Trust was established in 1988 to manage, as a charity, morethan 2,500 acres to the west of Peterborough – with a remit to improvethe quality of life for Peterborough’s residents and visitors by providinghigh quality and accessible open spaces.
Twenty years on, the Trust – overseen by its Board of Management –successfully carries this out by offering a wide variety of activities andmanaging various business interests.
More than just
WINTER 08 | ISSUE 2 3
In providing its extensive networkof parks and open spaces at no costto the taxpayer, the Trust is currentlyone of only two organisations acrossthe United Kingdom offering such acomprehensive service on such anextensive scale in this way.
Today, within the Trust’s directlymanaged estate there are a varietyof landscapes, buildings, habitats,water features and visitor facilities.Besides the 500 acres at FerryMeadows Country Park, there areopen-space areas at Thorpe Meadows,
Orton Mere, Woodston Reachand a number of woodlandplantations, footpaths andhedgerows.
The remainder consists of land,facilities and amenities let to anumber of tenants. As landlord,the Trust’s involvement with theseoperations varies according to thenature of the tenancy, location andservice provided.
The full extent of the estate andthe Trust’s range of operations isillustrated below:
Ferry Meadows
4 WINTER 08 | ISSUE 2
Greg Higby,Park Ranger
pedal powerThe benefits of cycling are numerous - it’s fun,
free and environmentally friendly. It’s a greatactivity for the whole family and helps keep
everyone fit and healthy.
Nene Park – the ultimate for cyclistsNene Park is ideal for cycling as the routes are mainly flatand off-road. The park’s scenery is varied with cyclewaystaking you through woodlands, meadows, nature reserves,along the River Nene and many other places.
Moreover, you can make your bike ride more interestingby stopping at the bird hides or play areas along the way,and visiting Roman Point and the Nene Valley Railway.In Ferry Meadows, there are also two cafés for refreshments.
Cycle with a RangerTo help our cycling visitors discover different routes aroundthe park we are holding Cycle with a Ranger events. ParkRangers Greg Higby and Dave Linscott will lead you on agentle ride around Ferry Meadows, Orton Mere, ThorpeMeadows and Bluebell Wood. The routes vary but are abouteight miles and take about 1-2 hours. Suitable for all cyclinglevels, these rides offer a great opportunity to explore thepark, keep fit and meet new people.
Linked to the Green WheelThe Peterborough Environment City Trust (PECT) websitedescribes the Peterborough Millennium Green Wheel as“a continuous network of cycleways, footpaths andbridleways that provide safe, continuous routes aroundthe city, through picturesque stone villages, the Fens andthe scenic Nene valley.” Nene Park is easily accessible fromthe Green Wheel network of cycleways with routes runningthrough and around the park. For more information aboutthe Green Wheel visit the PECT website www.pect.net.
You can buy a map of the Green Wheel from the TouristInformation Centre, Travel Choice Centre, most local cycleshops and from the Peterborough City Council websitewww.peterborough.gov.uk. In Ferry Meadows, from theVisitor Centre Shop and Lakeside Leisure Cycle Hire at theWatersports Centre. For information about Lakeside LeisureCycle Hire please telephone 01733 234418 or visitwww.lakesideleisure.com.
National Cycleway Network’s route 63, part of the Nationalcycleway network from Burton-on-Trent to Wisbech viaLeicester and Peterborough goes through Nene Park.For more information visit the Sustrans websitewww.sustrans.org.uk.
With rising fuel costs, traffic congestion and increasing awareness of our carbonfootprint, many of us are swapping our cars for pedal power. With the successof Britain’s Olympic cycling team in Beijing, a bike ride has never been more popular.
Did you know?Cycling a 10-mile return journey to work instead ofdriving five times a week (50 miles cycled per week)will make the following changes:
• 9 kg of carbon dioxide saved per week (equivalentof 900 party balloons)
• 2375 calories burnt per week (equivalent to eightking-size Mars Bars)
• £7: the average amount of money saved per week
Don’t forget the Cycle-Safe codeWhen cycling in the park please remember to:
• Always wear a cycle helmet.
• Cycle only on public roads,unclassified roads and onsurfaced tracks.
• Be friendly towards other parkusers. Routes in the park are opento walkers and horse riders as wellas cyclists. Cyclists should give wayto pedestrians and wheelchair users.
• Take care when passing dogs and horses, leave themplenty of room, they are spooked easily so never passwithout calling out a warning.
• Don’t expect to cycle at high speeds. Reduce the speedwhen you don’t know what’s ahead.
• Don’t surprise people – slow down and make sure theyknow you are coming. Fit a bell to warn pedestriansyou are approaching.
• Fit and use lights in poor visibility. Remember that youare required by law to display working lights after dark.
• Carry basic tools such as cycle spanner, a pump and aspare inner tube. Invest in a first aid kit and know howto use it.
• Keep away from park maintenanceoperations such as hedge-cuttingand tree felling.
• If you see any damage then pleasereport it to the Park Rangersimmediately.
• Don’t use a mobile phone whencycling.
Orton Wistow Brownies have been taking part in the CambridgeshireCommunity Challenge which is set by the County Commissioner.Their challenge was to undertake tasks to help or make a differencein their local community. The challenge is made upof two parts:
• Be proud to be a citizen of Cambridgeshire.
• Show active involvement in your community.
If they successfully complete all elementsthe Brownies receive their CommunityChallenge badge.
The 1st Orton Wistow Brownies looked for a challengeto undertake in their local community and decided as they wereregular users of Nene Park this was where they would like to carry out
a useful task, writes Rachel Storey, Park Ranger.The Trust always welcomes such initiatives and one of the most useful tasksthey could perform that would have an immediate impact on theenvironment was simply to remove unsightly litter.
I met the group of about 15 Brownies and their leaders at Orton Mere oneTuesday evening in September. Having supplied them with bags and litterpickers to share they were divided into two teams and we set off.
One team walked towards Woodston Reach and the otherheaded into Thorpe Meadows. The groups had tremendousfun finding litter while enjoying the lovely surroundings,and usefully collected several large bags of litter.
At Nene Park Trust we have a dedicated team of ParkAssistants who carry out litter picking duties all year round- covering all areas of the Park including Ferry Meadows,Orton Mere, Woodston Reach, Thorpe Meadows and Castor.
WINTER 08 | ISSUE 2 5
Brownies acceptthe rubbish challenge�
Rachel StoreyPark Ranger
On patrol: Orton Wistow Brownies
get to grips with litter – fast.
Amazing but true!Every year in Nene Park more than fifty full-size skips of litter are collectedby Trust staff. In the summer, it takes two people seven days a week to keepthe park litter free and attractive. Fortunately, most visitors do their bit byusing the litter bins - or by observing the Country Code and taking their litterhome with them.
Headline Results
VISITORSURVEY
We have now had somepreliminary results back fromthe Visitor Survey that was
undertaken during the summer. Theseresults have revealed some reallyuseful data that will help us toproduce a long term strategic planfor Nene Park.
We wanted to know how our visitorsuse the Park and what they thoughtabout it.
The full set of results will not beavailable until later in the year, butsome of the headline results so far are:
99% of our visitors feel safein the Park.
85% of visitors are awarethat there is a Park Rangeron duty during daylight hoursthroughout the year.
72% visit by car, 11% visiton foot.
76% visit in the afternoon(12pm – 4pm)
12% visit the Park daily
43% said that the Lakesidewalks were their favourite partof the Park.
We would like to thank everyone whohelped with the survey and to all ourvisitors who completed and returnedthe comment cards which have beenavailable at Park outlets over the lastfew months.
We will now analyse all thisinformation, together withthe comments you havemade and use it to plandevelopments for the Park.
Chris ParkVisitor Services
Officer
6 WINTER 08 | ISSUE 2
Discovering TreesWednesday 3 December1.30pm – 3.45pmJoin Park Ranger AshleyWheal and find out somefascinating tree facts. There
will be an illustrated talk in the John HorrellRoom at the Visitor Centre followed by a walkto identify some of our native trees in winter.Please meet at the Visitor Centre.
Woodland CoppiceWorking Party
Saturday 6 December10.00am – 12.30pmJoin Park Rangers DaveLinscott, Rachel Storeyand Gary Mason for a
‘relaxed’ hands on working group using handtools only to manage the hazel coppice inLynch Plantation. Cutting, sorting and layeringwill be shown. This traditional method ofwoodland management has been introducedto help improve the diversity of this newwoodland. Minimum age 16 years andoutdoor clothing essential. Please telephone01733 234443 to book a place or [email protected].
Birds in WinterWednesday 10 December10.00am – 12 noonJoin Visitor Services OfficerChris Park for a morningwalk around Ferry Meadows
looking for and identifying some of ourwinter bird visitors. Please bring binocularsif you have them. Please meet at theVisitor Centre.
2009 EventsGuided Dog Walk
Wednesday 14 January10.00am – 12 noonJoin Park Rangers RachelStorey and Gary Mason fora gentle stroll with your dog
around Ferry Meadows. This walk will lastapproximately 2 hours. Please meetat the Watersports Centre. You must bringa lead! Please telephone 01733 234443to book a place or [email protected]
January Walk in the ParkWednesday 28 January1.30pm – 3.30pmJoin Park Ranger Ian Lowe fora guided walk around FerryMeadows looking at the Park
in the middle of winter and enjoy thescenery. Please meet at the Visitor Centre.
Ferry Meadows UndressedWednesday 4th February1.30pm – 3.30pmJoin Park Ranger SteveWickens for a glimpse behindthe scenes to see how Ferry
Meadows Country Park is managed. A shortwalk through the park to look at some of theplanned projects, and hopefully see aworking team in action. This will be followedby a visit to the works depot to see some ofthe machinery and equipment used tomaintain the park to such high standards.Please meet at the Visitor Centre. Pleasetelephone 01733 234443 to book a place oremail [email protected].
Family Discovery Day -Make a Bird Box
Wednesday 18 February10.00am – 12 noonMake a nest box with ParkRanger Tom Wopat as part ofNational Nest Box Week. We
will be looking at ways that we can help ourgarden and woodland birds. This event willbe taking place near the Visitor Centre.Charge £5.00 to cover the cost of materials.
Family Discovery Day -Wildflower or Weeds?
Wednesday 18 February1.00pm – 3.00pmJoin Park Ranger PeterGentleman and learn aboutthe arable weed areas in the
Park. Find out what we are growing, howthey are managed and lend a hand sowingsome of the seeds. Peter will be working onthe plot near the Coney Meadow pond to talkabout the areas. So just drop by, help sowsome of the seed and then come back insummer to see it in full bloom. Directionsigns will be in place from the Visitor Centre.
Bike Ride with a RangerWednesday 11 March10.00am – 12.30pmJoin Park Ranger Greg Higbyfor a cycle ride through FerryMeadows and Nene Park.
The route will be approximately 8 miles andtake about 2½ hours. Suitable for all abilities.Participants must wear a cycle helmet.Please telephone 01733 234443 to booka place or [email protected]
A Walk with a RangerWednesday 11 March1.30pm – 3.30pmJoin Park Ranger Ian Lowe fora guided walk around FerryMeadows looking at the Park
as winter draws to a close and for the firstsigns of spring showing. Please meet at theVisitor Centre.
Pre School Push and ToddleWednesday 18 March10.00am – 11.30amThis walk gives pre schoolchildren, whether they benovice walkers, toddlers or
in prams and pushchairs, the chance to bringtheir parents or grandparents to join NenePark Ranger Steve Wickens for a leisurelystroll through Ferry Meadows. There will bestop off points to look at the wildlife and tohave fun in the play area. Please meet atthe Visitor Centre.
Guided Dog WalkWednesday 25 March10.00am – 12 noonJoin Nene Park RangersRachel Storey and Gary Masonfor a gentle stroll with your
dog around Ferry Meadows. This walk willlast approximately 2 hours. Meet at theVisitor Centre. You must bring a lead! Pleasetelephone 01733 234443 to book a place oremail [email protected].
Family Discovery Day -Shelter Building
Wednesday 8 April10.00am – 12 noonOne of the three basicsurvival needs is shelter.Join Park Ranger Tom Wopat
in the art of shelter building for a fun wayof looking at making shelters. Please meetat the Visitor Centre. Please telephone01733 234443 to book a place or [email protected]
Family Discovery Day -Make & Fly a Kite
Wednesday 15 April10.00am – 12 noonLearn how to make a simplekite from readily availablehousehold materials and
then fly it on the Meadows. Park Rangerswill be on hand with all the materials toshow you how to do this and to help youfly it, as long as we have a breeze. Drop inat the Visitor Centre.
Birds in SpringWednesday 22 April10.00am – 12 noonJoin Chris Park Visitor ServicesOfficer for a morning walkaround Ferry Meadows
listening, looking for and identifying someof our spring visitors. Please bring binocularsif you have them. Please meet at the VisitorCentre.
Walks, Talks, Events and Discovery Day Programme • Walks, Talks, Events and D
WINTER 08 | ISSUE 2 7
Bluebell WalkWednesday 6 May1.45pm – 4.00pmJoin Park Ranger AshleyWheal for a strollaround Ferry Meadows,
starting at the Visitor Centre walkingthrough Bluebell Wood and returningvia Milton Ferry Bridge taking in theBluebells as well as the wide varietyof other fauna and flora.Please meet at the Visitor Centre.Please telephone 01733 234443to book a place or [email protected]
Badger Watch witha Ranger
Wednesday 20 May8.00pm – 11.00pmJoin Park Rangers Ash-ley Wheal and GregHigby for a talk on the
life of badgers followed by a silent vigilat a sett to catch a glimpse of theseshy creatures. Please telephone 01733234443 to book a place or [email protected]
Rambling from Riverto Rail
Wednesday 27 May9.30am -13.30pmJoin Park Ranger SteveWickens for a gentleramble of approximately
5 miles along the River Nene toWansford with the return journey beingmade on the Nene Valley Railway.Learn something of the history of boththe river and the railway whilst takingin the scenery along the western edgeof the Park. There should be adequatetime to explore Wansford Stationbefore boarding the train to return tothe Park. Please meet at the VisitorCentre. Due to the nature of theterrain regrettably this event is notsuitable for wheelchairs orpushchairs. Cost £3 to cover the trainfare payable on the day. Pleasetelephone 01733 234443 to booka place or [email protected]
Discovery Day Programme • Walks, Talks, Events and Discovery Day Programme
British Association of Radio ControlSoarers (model gliding). Sunday 11thJanuary, Sunday 8th February, Sunday8th March, Sunday 31st May, Sunday21st June, Sunday 19th July, Sunday 16thAugust, Sunday 18th October, Sunday8th November, Sunday 6th DecemberTel: Alan Morton 07986 238172.
Peterborough Scribes. Sunday 18thJanuary – John Horrell Room at the VisitorCentre. Tel: Anne Yeoman 01733 759243.
Great Ouse Kite Flyers, Club Fly in.Sunday 25th January, Sunday 22ndFebruary, Sunday 22nd March,Sunday 12th April, Sunday 26th April,Sunday 10th May, Sunday 24th May,Sunday 28th June, Sunday 12th July,Sunday 26th July, Sunday 9th August,Sunday 23rd August, Sunday 13thSeptember, Sunday 27th September,Sunday 11th October, Sunday 22ndNovember, Sunday 27th DecemberTel: Jill Ferrer 01733 563958.
Peterborough Guild of Dyers, Spinners& Weavers. Saturday 7th February,Saturday 4th April, Saturday 7th March,Saturday 4th April, Saturday 2nd May,Saturday 3rd October – John Horrell Roomat the Visitor Centre.Tel: Pauline Smith 01733 330942.
Great Ouse Kite Flyers Kite FestivalSunday 14th JuneTel: Jill Ferrer 01733 563958.
British Motor Corporation and BritishLeyland Owners Club Rally.Sunday 2nd August – Held on OakMeadow in Ferry Meadows Country Parkfor the 16th consecutive year with manyof the old names from the heyday of Britishmotor car manufacturing like Wolseley,Morris, Austin, MG and Riley will be ondisplay. Many are in near showroomcondition, having been lovingly restoredto their former glory. From 10am.Email: [email protected].
Groups usingNene Park - 2009
General InformationThe Walks• Park Ranger led walks are informal andintended for anyone who has an interest inthe countryside. They are suitable for thewhole family and usually last approximatelytwo hours covering no more than two miles(unless otherwise stated).
• All walks will have regular stops en routeand start at the Visitor Centre in FerryMeadows (unless otherwise stated).
• Unless there are extreme weather conditionsthe Park Ranger will be there. However,please ensure that you wear suitablefootwear and are fully prepared for badweather conditions.
• Binoculars are always useful.
• All the walks and events are free unlessotherwise stated.
DogsDogs on leads are welcome on walks (unlessotherwise stated). Please check individualevents. Guide dogs are welcome on all events.Please help to keep Ferry Meadows enjoyableby cleaning up behind your dog.
Family Discovery Days10.00am – 12 noon. These are mostly freealthough some have a small charge to coverthe cost of materials. These activities areintended for parents/ guardians/ carers andchildren to discover and learn together andhave fun. They will usually be suitable forchildren aged 8 - 12 years. Families shouldconsist of one or two adults with a maximumof three children per adult. Some requirebooking as spaces are limited.
Booking for EventsWhere events require pre-booking pleasecontact the telephone number or emailaddress given. Or if applying in writing to theaddress below, please include the names ofthose attending (for children’s events pleaseinclude ages), plus a contact address andtelephone number.
Reserved places on events can be paid forat the Visitor Centre Shop, Ferry Meadowsor by post. Cheque/s for the full amountshould be made payable to Nene Park Trust.
For further details of any events please contact:Visitor Services Officer, Nene Park Trust, HamFarm House, Ham Lane, Peterborough PE2 5UU.Tel: (01733) 234443
Email:[email protected]
Website:www.neneparktrust.org.uk
Terry DauntSenior Ranger
In Nene Park’s beautiful south-facing BluebellWood are two old osier beds – four acres ofwillows grown for basket making.
When I first saw them in the early 1980s, they werealmost completely smothered by dense vegetation.Later, faced with the task of reinstating them,
I found it difficult not to feel totally overwhelmed atthe prospect.
However, when we got under way it was obvious someonehad worked on the beds some years before –the clue being a number of very large stumps,each bearing a crown of dozens of straightrods, which stood out defiantly against a seaof brambles.
Later, these rods were to prove essential tothe project, providing cuttings from whicha completely new generation of willow couldbe propagated.
As for the past, all we knew was that priorto the 1970s Bluebell Wood had belongedto Milton Estates.
My research into the beds’ history took me first toPeterborough Museum, where I discovered Milton Estateshad in 1863 leased the land to a William Hubbard and hisbrother, who ran a basket making premises in Priestgate,Peterborough. Just two years later they had moved to largerpremises in Westgate – suggesting the business wassuccessful.
A week or so after my museum visit I received a call fromthem saying they had found a collection of basket makingtools in one of their stores. It had been donated by localbasket maker, Len Wilcox.
I immediately contacted Mr Wilcox and forged a relationshipwith him that lasted until he died.
Len, it turned out, was a Master Basketmaker who hadbeen born into the trade. His father, also a basket maker,and his mother and brothers all worked in the businessat their workshops within the Cathedral precincts.
Len, it transpired, had spent most of his time working onthe osier beds in Bluebell Woods. From willow grown there,the Wilcox family turned out a wide range of baskets, mostlyfor everyday trade use by local bakers, hotels, laundries andfor agricultural work. Specialities included animal muzzles,feeding skeps and panniers for working donkeys. Theirbespoke work included willow seats for cars, umbrellacontainers, ornamental wheelbarrows and baby cribs.
One of my abiding memories of Len is of watching himmake a large potato basket in just 45 minutes - while at thesame time being captivated by a story about his business
dealings with farmers. These meetings tookplace at Peterborough’s Bull Hotel wherebusiness was done over a pint or two.
One order from a local farmer for 2000 potatobaskets meant Len and his brothers having towork around the clock to deliver them in sixweeks. The farmer checked every basket byputting his foot in the bottom and pulling onthe handle. If the handle pulled out it wasrejected. The price per basket was seven anda tanner, 7s 6d (37½ p).
Sadly, as mentioned earlier, Len is no longer with us.However, work on the willow beds continues.
As soon as the leaves start to fall, the harvest starts. Therods are cut and graded to size - with the smaller ones driedand stored and the larger ones left out to dry off ready forprojects in the park or selling to craftspeople for traditionaland more contemporary uses.
TheWillow Project
8 WINTER 08 | ISSUE 2
Hedgelaying is a countryside craft that has very ancientorigins. The first written record dates from 55BC whenJulius Caesar described Iron-Age tribes constructing
enclosures by bending living thorn branches and saplings tocreate an effective, living barrier to protect them and theirlivestock at night from prowling predators and unfriendlyneighbours.
These were probably very similar looking to the African boma,a thorn corral still used today by semi nomadic tribes to protecta camp and livestock.
Hedgelaying as we know it began in the 18th century withthe Enclosure Acts that saw an end to the medieval open-fieldsystem of agriculture. Before wire fencing and barbed wire,fields were enclosed with ditches or planted with thorn hedges.However, if left unmanaged a hedgerow grows upwards andoutwards and eventually becomes a line of trees. This is whythe skills of the hedgelayer were in great demand tomaintain the many miles of hedgesnecessary to retain livestock.
Gradually, hedge use has declined owing tochanges in agriculture brought about by bothWorld Wars, and in particular the SecondWorld War when emphasis was placed onproduction through the widespread adoptionof mechanisation.
A reduction in the availability of labour and theintroduction of wire fences were major factors in the decline ofhedgelaying. By the 1960s hedges were disappearing from thecountryside at an alarming rate. Lack of maintenance meantthey became tall gappy lines of trees and many were grubbedout to make larger fields that could be more efficientlymanaged by larger machinery.
Legislation introduced in 1997 has halted the huge decline andtoday hedgerow maintenance is seen as part of good farmingand land management practice. As a result, hedgelayers areas much concerned now with conserving our countryside aswith making stockproof hedges. We also have a much greaterknowledge of wildlife and why well-managed hedges areessential to the countryside. Therefore, the skills of thehedgelayer are again in great demand.
Among the many benefits of hedgelaying are:• Maintains an aesthetically pleasing landscape• Prolongs the life of a hedge• Defines boundaries• Retains livestock• Maintains effective wildlife corridors• Provides refuge for a wide diversity of wildlife species• Maintains the many regional styles and traditions• Stimulates and inspires interest in the countryside
Here in Nene Park there is little need for stockproof hedges.However, they have great importance as elements of ourlandscape heritage and as wildlife habitats, and somanagement by laying is vital to preserve their value.
Hedgelaying is usually carried out between October andFebruary when the sap is down. Billhooks, axesand chainsaws are the main tools used in thelaying process. The technique used is to partlycut stems near the base leaving a living stripconnecting the stem to the roots. These stemsare then bent at an angle of about 35 degreesto the ground. The layed stems are securedwith supporting stakes at regular intervalsand these in turn can be woven withbinders for added strength.
This process may seem destructive because of theamount of material that is cut out. However, the followingspring vigorous new growth is triggered along the stem frompreviously dormant buds and a thicker, healthier hedgedevelops.
To find out more about hedgelaying please take a look atthe National Hedgelaying Society websitewww.hedgelaying.org.uk
There will be opportunities to watch Nene Park Rangers laying hedges aroundthe Park throughout the winter - look out for posters and notices around thePark. Please feel free to stop to chat and ask questions.
Hedgelaying- an ancient craft revived
Dave Linscott,Park Ranger
WINTER 08 | ISSUE 2 9
But what bird is this? Recently, a man came over to mewhile I stood watching one swoop over Coney Meadow.
He was very excited and said: “Is that what I think it is?”It was lovely to see him so animated. I replied: “I’m sorry, I don’tknow what you think it is.”His face lit up even more and he said: “It’s a golden eagle,isn’t it?”I explained that I could see why he thought it might be, as it wasa similar colour and a huge bird of prey - but that it was in facta red kite.
He was surprised as he hadn’t heard of a red kite before. He thenreturned to impress the rest of the family with his new-foundknowledge.
Historically, red kites were a common bird, but man shot, trappedand poisoned them almost out of existence. This was due, in part,to the perceived threat to game birds, as landowners throughtheir gamekeepers had zero tolerance of all birds of prey.
However, red kites feed mainly on animals that are alreadydead – carrion, such as rabbits or rats.
I used this knowledge to attract a red kite to where I live. I pickedup a road-kill rabbit and put it in the middle of my large lawn.
Two days later… success! I was even able to use my camcorderto capture the kite feeding.
So why are red kite sightings now on the increase at Nene Park?Well, it’s thanks to the successful local reintroduction of this birdby the Forestry Commission, in association with Natural England.
Their release site happens to be only10 miles away, near King’s Cliffe, inNorthamptonshire.
Upon release, bird dispersal is monitoredby way of a tagging system. Large butlightweight canvas tags are attached toeach wing so that individual birds can beidentified at a distance. The table belowshows how the system works.
It’s a kite – but notas you know it
Tag Colour Wing Tag Year Tag Colour(left wing) Code (right wing)
Wales Black 1998 Lime green
Chilterns Yellow 1999 Black
Northamptonshire White 2000 Pink
Yorkshire Orange 2001 Blue
Central Scotland Red 2002 White
Dumfries & Galloway Green 2003 Red
North Scotland Blue 2004 Yellow
Northeast England (Northern Kites) Pink 2005 Orange
Northeast England (Northern Kites) Pink 2006 Lime green
Northeast England (Northern Kites) Pink 2007 Purple
Can you help me find out how often kites visitNene Park? If you spot one here please could youemail me at [email protected] to see if it is a tagged bird, and if so, pleaserecord the wing tag colour codes, and any symbols.Good luck!
(birds are individually “named”/identified by letters or symbols written on the tag)
fabulous birds of preyvisit Nene ParkThe sight of a huge bird of prey soaring over Nene Park is on the increase.
RED KITE FACTS
Colour: chestnut red with
white
patches under the wings
and a pale
grey head.
Wing Span: About 5.5 fee
t
Weight: 2 - 3Ibs
Breeding: At2 or 3 years
Eggs laid: InMarch - 1-4
eggs
Incubation: 31-35 days
Longevity: Up to 20 year
s
10 WINTER 08 | ISSUE 2
Ashley WhealPark Ranger
The fiery colours of autumn are one of Nene Park’smajor attractions during November. Althoughthey’re immensely enjoyable on a large scale -there’s nothing better than kicking through theleaves on a sunny morning - they can be just asspectacular in your own garden.
If you want to create similar effects at home, there’s stillplenty you can do now. After all, autumn’s the best timeto plant. The soil’s still warm from the summer sun and,undoubtedly, pretty moist - so conditions are excellent forroot growth. Anything planted now can establish beforewinter arrives, then grow away quickly in spring.
The best shrubs for autumn colour include manygarden-worthy plants and most are available from NotcuttsGarden Centres - one of Nene Park Trust’s tenants.
Cotinus coggygria‘Grace’ - a prettyvariety of smoke bush,it has purple leaves thatlook great in summer andeven more amazing inautumn when they turn fieryshades. It gets quite large butbenefits from being pruned hardback every spring. Height 6m.
Hamamelis mollis - witch hazels producesweetly scented blooms like candied orange peel in earlyspring - these are quite an unusual sight because they’reborne on bare stems before the leaves appear. The plantscome into their own again during autumn when the leavesturn shades of copper, scarlet and gold. Height 3m.
Liquidambar styraciflua - a lovely tree for a small gardenespecially during autumn when its leaves turn orange, redand purple. Height 5m.
Acer palmatum ‘Garnet’ has finely-divided purple leavesthat colour well in autumn, especially on acidic soils. Plantin a sheltered position away from scorching sunlight.Height 1.8m
Rhus typhina ‘Laciniata’ - a small tree with leavesthat are a blaze of colour in autumn. Height 3m.
As well as plants with colourful autumnleaves, it’s worth including those witheye-catching winter stems such as dogwoods, salix and rubus or those withberries such as callicarpa (purple),skimmia (red) and pernettya (white).Not only do these provide wintercolour, they provide cover and foodfor the birds.
If you haven’t any berrying plantsthen the range of wild bird foods hasincreased dramatically in recent years.Nature programmes on the televisionare encouraging people to interactwith more of the wildlife in theirgardens. Everyone loves birds and youcan now choose between a wide rangeof seeds, nuts and fat balls, as well asfeeders, bird tables and even close-circuittelevision, watching those birds thatchoose to raise a brood in speciallyadapted nesting boxes.
Gareth Salter,Sales Advisor,Notcutts Garden Centre
WINTER 08 | ISSUE 2 11
Visitors get inthe picture(s)�
What did you see in Ferry Meadows during thesummer? This was the question we askedeveryone who called at the Visitor Centre
Café last season.
As a result, we received and displayed a good selectionof photographs taken by you.
Many visitors enjoyed looking at them because theyseemed to show an extra side to Ferry Meadows, onethey hadn’t noticed during their visits.
Thanks to all of you who contributed.
Next year, we’ll be encouraging everyone to put pen topaper with a little poetry. May I start you with the firstline?
Ferry Meadows Country Park...
Just add three or four more lines to complete your poem.If you feel you could write a full-length one starting withthe same line – do just that. Remember, we’ll displaythese too.
At the end of the summer two prizes of £25 Marks &Spencer vouchers will go to the writersof those poems judged the best.
We look forward to receiving yourcontributions at the cafe.
Best wishes from Christine Conlonand the team at the Visitor Centre Café.
Recreate the flaming colours of autumn in your own garden
Feeding the flames!
Play Golf!TwoGreat Courses- Two Great ChoicesORTON MEADOWS Golf CourseOrton Waterville, Peterborough PE2 5UUTel: 01733 237478www.ortonmeadowsgolfcourse.co.uk
THORPE WOOD Golf CourseThorpe Wood, Peterborough PE3 6SETel: 01733 267701www.thorpewoodgolfcourse.co.uk
• Pay as you play
• Club and Trolley Hire
• Large well-stocked Golf Shops
• 12-hole Pitch & Putt Courseat Orton Meadows
• Golf Societieswelcome
LAKESIDECafe and BarCome and enjoy homemade
food in beautiful surroundings
• Open 365 days of the year
• Available for parties, corporateevents and business meetings
• Ample parking
Lakeside Cafe & Bar, next to theWatersports Centre, Ferry Meadows
Tel: 01733 [email protected]
VisitorsCentre CafeTea Time Catering
Enjoy a relaxing Ferry MeadowsCream Tea overlooking
Overton Lake.
Enjoy the view, enjoy our hospitality!
Tel: 01733 234493
Horse Ridingin Nene Park
LYNCH FARM EQUESTRIAN CLUB LTD
WISTOW WAY • ORTON WISTOWPETERBOROUGH • PE2 6XA
www.lynchfarmriding.co.ukTEL: 01733 234445
Ferry MeadowsRailway
Nene Park, Peterborough
• A train ride for children of all ages from 1 to 91 !
• Take a ride across the park fromHam Laneto theWatersport Centre
• Trains run every weekend and throughout theschool holidays (Monday is our day off)
Tel: 01933 398889www.ferrymeadowsrailway.co.uk
Tuition for: Power Boats, Windsurfing,Sailing & Kayaking
Hire for: Cycles, Canoes, Kayaks, Pedalos &Rowing Boats, Sailing Dinghies and Windsurfers
Retail: Jack Holt, Gul, Minnkota Outboards,Ocean Kayaks, Old Town, Crewsaver Yak
01733 234418
Lakeside LeisurePeterborough’s Premier Family Outdoor Leisure Facility
Lakeside Leisure, Watersports Centre, Ferry Meadows,Ham Lane, Peterborough PE2 5UU
visit: www.lakesideleisure.com
• Campsite available for group bookings• Licensed café/bar• Public Day launching for
Non-powered Craft• Tuition to suit all ages• RYA PWB level 2• Sailing Club - new members welcome
To receivefuture editionsof Park lifeandinformationabout theTrust then joinour mailing list by contactingus by phone or email...
this issueP5Nene Park Events
P3To Feed?
P7Height barrier
� P2Dog issues
P7Charcoal
P8Groups Using Nene Park
P6Orienteering
Of course, there is still a great dealto learn - but already, a few things arevery clear.Nene Park is a unique and special placethat is obviously much appreciatedlocally and regionally.The establishment in 1988 of anindependent charitable trust to manageNene Park showed real vision, and wasvery much ahead of its time. Throughthe important work carried out inestablishing the Trust over the past 20years, we are today able to provide anexciting and high quality networkof green space - and at no cost to thetax payer.The Trust is fortunate to have retaineda long serving and dedicated teamof staff who carry out a wide rangeof duties - from estate maintenanceand rangering to park management,administration, promotion and finance.But, perhaps most important of all, thereis a great enthusiasm amongst our Boardmembers, staff and visitors to furtherdevelop and improve the park and itsfacilities over the next few years.
This is an exciting time for Nene ParkTrust as we approach our 21st birthdayin August 2009, and begin to reflect onour achievements since 1988 - and whatour aims might be for the next 21 yearsand beyond.To help us in the process, we wouldreally like to hear your impressions ofNene Park. Over the summer, we will becarrying out survey work to find out theviews of our visitors (and non visitors!).Please look out for our survey teams inthe Park and City centre, and tell themwhat you think. Alternatively, please feelfree to contact us at any point with yourideas, comments or general views [email protected] on 01733 234193.We look forward to hearing yourcomments, and wish you anenjoyable summer.
James McCulloch,Chief Executive,Nene Park Trust
�First impressionsAs I write this, it is just over two months since I took up the new
position of Chief Executive at Nene Park Trust. My first few weeks have
been filled with a range of meetings and site visits - all with the aim
of getting to know our 2,500 acre estate, staff team and tenants.
The newsletter of Nene Park Trust, PeterboroughSUMMER 08 | ISSUE 1
Parklifewww.neneparktrust.org.uk
Nene Park TrustP E T E R B O R O U G H
Telephone:
01733 234443Email:
