Greenspaces
Your guide to our events 2011
www.whatsonmedway.co.uk
Greenspace Services – working with local communities to improve Medway's countryside, parks and open spaces Did you know? • More than one million people use Medway’s greenspaces each year. • We manage 1,900 hectares of land, which is 10 times the size of Monaco. This includes 48 countryside sites, three country parks, 28 allotment sites, 84 play areas, 28 parks. • We support learning and recreation for more than 40,000 people every year through organised school visits, horticultural training and events. • We conserve natural habitats for many protected species, including: orchids, nightingales, water voles, seals and adders.
Welcome to the latest edition of the Greenspaces guide to events. I’m always amazed to see just how much is going on in Medway’s parks and green spaces and I’m pleased to say that this year is no different. Medway Council and volunteer groups continue to improve our already remarkable sites, including a new wheel park in Cozenton Park for people to enjoy skateboarding, inline skating and BMXing, and a refurbished play area in Jacksons Recreation Ground. There are also substantial improvements taking place this year at Gillingham Park and Broomhill. Indeed we’re working very hard to provide some great settings, making it even easier for you to enjoy your leisure time. What may not be so easy is deciding which events to go to, as there’s such a variety including: ● getting closer to nature with bird and bat watching, fishing and bug hunting; ● getting creative with our park rangers making masks, models, birdboxes, collages and kites; ● getting active on our mountain bike trails and guided walks. Our calendar of events is bursting with things for you to get involved in. We aim to provide events that are low-cost, and often free, to ensure as many people as possible can take part. I hope you’ll agree that there’s plenty going on and will take advantage of your local parks and green spaces this year. I know I will. Cllr Howard Doe, Portfolio Holder for Community Services
Cover images: praxisdesign.co.uk, Darren Sweeting and David Heathfield
Introduction
Broomhill King Arthur’s Drive, ME2 3LZ Broomhill is Strood’s hidden gem; although it is one of the highest points in Medway. Because Broomhill is located at the end of the North Downs chalk ridge that finishes on the Hoo Peninsular, you are likely to find prehistoric fossils, especially oyster shells, washed up by the sea that covered the area aeons ago. Broomhill is a quiet green space full of interesting local flora and fauna, easily accessible all with ample parking. Visit in season to take advantage of the rich and varied fruits available, including damsons, blackberries, elderberries and rose hips. There is a toddlers’ fenced soft play area and seats at vantage points around the park. At the summit you can view the Medway downstream to Sheerness and upstream to Blue Bell Hill. Turn around and glimpsed through the trees can be seen the River Thames from estuary up to the Cliffe and Higham marshes. An excellent kite-flying area in windy weather, tobogganing when it snows and just quietly contemplating in the sunshine. A new natural play area suitable for children aged eight to 13-years-old, makes a great new addition to the park. Planned for 2011/12 new viewpoints will be added to the park, one north-facing looking over the Thames, and one south-facing overlooking the River Medway, Rochester Cathedral and Castle.
sites
Sites
Capstone Farm Country Park Capstone Road, ME7 3JG Capstone Farm Country Park, Gillingham is a Green Flag site covering 114 hectares of former farmland set on the edge of the North Downs. There are a variety of habitats in the park, including ancient woodlands, old orchards, a freshwater lake, meadows and hedgerows. The park is typical of the rolling landscape of the North Downs and many of the woods and hedgerows are hundreds of years old. Capstone is perfect for an afternoon walk, whether you take a quiet stroll around the lake or the more challenging walk around the valley slopes in the park. In some parts of the park the steep slopes and narrow tracks can be a challenge, but the reward is views across to the Great Lines and unspoilt countryside of Medway. Facilities at the park include: • visitor cen tre with toilets • fishing lake (a ticket is required) • café • ranger service • orienteering course • walking and new mountain bike trails • education room • two new children’s play areas.
Cozenton Park Bloors Lane, ME8 7EG
praxisdesign.co.uk
Large recreation ground, surrounded by mature trees and home to two attractive weeping beeches. Site of Splashes Leisure Pool and since December 2010 a large wheel park facility suitable for skateboards, inline skates, and BMX bikes.
Darland Banks Kingsway, ME7 3AT With stunning views across Luton, the Luton Banks and the Capstone Valley. Darland Banks in Gillingham is one of Medway’s most popular and well-known countryside sites. A grassland site, managed by Kent Wildlife Trust on behalf of Medway Council, Darland is a great site to visit all year and perfect for taking the kids for a walk. Darland Banks is designated as both a Local Nature Reserve and a Site of Nature Conservation Interest and is home to one of the biggest colonies of man orchids in Kent. The banks are managed by grazing, with ponies in the spring and summer, cows in the autumn and winter and goats all year round. In spring and summer the meadow flowers and insect life can keep children fascinated for hours. The glow worms emitting their eerie green lights on warm summer evenings are stunning and a sight not to be missed. It is possible to walk from Darland to Capstone Farm Country Park and though there is a short stretch of on-road walking along Capstone Road, a spot of lunch at the Capstone Café makes it well worthwhile. There is a small parking area at the end of Star Lane. Please be aware that Darland Banks is on a steep slope so is unsuitable for people with disabilities.
Gillingham Park Oxford Road, ME7 4BP Gillingham Park in Canterbury Street, is the only grade two listed historic urban park in Medway, as listed in the national register of historic parks and gardens. The seven-hectare site is a valuable greenspace in Gillingham’s town centre. There are also entrances to the site in Oxford Road and Park Avenue. There are several distinct areas in the park, the first just inside the main entrance. Here large ornamental trees, planted flowerbeds and small lawn areas are all laced together by
a network of footpaths. They all contribute to a traditional formal park area. There are also toilets at the main entrance to the park. The central area of the park is a large grass circle, bordered by a wide path that is shaded by a wide variety of trees. The circular footpath is an ideal place for an early morning jog, roller-skating, or taking the kids for a walk. Some of the more unusual trees include an Indian bean tree, a tulip tree and some grand London planes. In spring 2011 the Greenspaces Team plans to refurbish the play area, and carry out general park improvements throughout the year. Including the addition of an on-site memorial to the Fireman’s Wedding Tragedy of 1929.
Great Lines Heritage Park Marlborough Road, ME7 5HD The steep, south-facing slope of the Great Lines dominates the Chatham skyline and is clearly visible across Medway. The site is crowned by the spectacular Royal Naval War Memorial, which commemorates more than 8,500 sailors lost in the First World War. A later addition reminds us of more than 10,000 lives lost in the Second World War. The Great Lines have played an important part in Medway’s military history. Chatham Dockyard was considered vulnerable to attack, so fortifications on the high ground above the dockyard were built to protect it from invasion. As a result of the historical importance of Chatham Dockyard, Napoleonic forts and field of fire on the Great Lines, the area is being considered for UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The Great Lines site now has a far more peaceful existence and has many important grassland plant species, including the rare red star thistle. The site provides a home for the marbled white butterfly, the stripped-winged grasshopper and the protected common lizard. Skylarks can be heard singing on most sunny days and meadow pipets nesting on buildings around the grounds of Medway Maritime Hospital are joined by swifts and bats as they feed on insects over the grassland on long hot summer evenings. The Great Lines can be easily accessed on foot from both Chatham and Gillingham town centres. It provides a scenic and easy shortcut between the two.
Hillyfields Community Park Parr Avenue, ME7 1UJ One of Medway’s Green Flag award-winning sites. Hillyfields is made up of three distinct tiers. The lowest tier is home to a brand new play park, designed with the help of the local community, schools, Medway Council and Groundwork. Uniquely in Medway, the play area has been constructed using natural materials and includes ditches, boulders and bridges so children can have an exciting adventure beyond the traditional play area. The middle tier is a large, open recreation ground with a junior football pitch in the centre and surrounded by a circular path marked with distance measurements up to 1km, perfect for jogging or power walking. The top tier is a community orchard, currently being worked on by the local community group and Groundwork and is a popular site for reptiles and birds.
Jacksons Recreation Ground City Way, ME1 2AB Jacksons Recreation Ground located on City Way is an important site situated between Chatham and Strood. The site is zoned creating areas for quiet recreation, formal sport and play. The lowest part of the site features formal planted areas and tennis courts together with bowls (pay to play). Overlooking this is a newly refurbished play area funded by Big Lottery Fund. Above this is a large open space providing excellent views across Medway, which is available to hire for events. At the top of the site is a skate park facility.
Ranscombe Farm Reserve Car park off A228 north of Cuxton Ranscombe Farm Reserve, Cuxton is on the North Downs of Kent and covers about 600 acres of farmland and woods. It has been a favourite haunt of wild plant enthusiasts for hundreds of years. The reserve also has an exceptional diversity of plant species, some are nationally rare and protected. They include ground pine, hairy mallow and meadow clary. The reserve is also home to 95 per cent of the UK’s broad-leaved cudweed population, another national rarity. Though the reserve is most famous for its wild plants, it also provides habitat for a range of other wildlife. The reserve is home to dormice, pipistrelle bats, badgers and butterflies including the speckled wood and meadow brown. Birds that can be spotted include skylark, song thrush, green woodpecker, chaffinch and linnet. With more than 10km of footpaths, the reserve offers a great opportunity to explore woodlands, arable fields and grassland. Its natural feature has changed remarkably little since the 18th century. The reserve is accessible on footpaths from Cobham, Cuxton and Strood and the main entrance and small car park are accessible from the A228.
Riverside Country Park Lower Rainham Road, ME7 2XH A Green Flag award-winning site for three consecutive years, Riverside Country Park covers 100 hectares along the Medway Estuary, including Motney Hill and Berengrave Local Nature Reserve. There are various habitats in the park including mudflats, salt marsh, ponds and reedbeds, grassland and scrub, all provide a haven for wildlife. The estuary has special protection as part of the Medway Marshes Site of Special Scientific Interest and is internationally important for wintering birds that thrive on the invertebrate-rich mudflats. Riverside has several ponds at Sharps Green and Berengrave, which are managed to maintain a balance of vegetation and open water.
The reedbeds are managed by cutting an area each year to promote dense growth and halt natural secession to scrubs and woodland with subsequent loss of important habitat. Grassland at Eastcourt Meadows and Rainham Dock East is mown in early autumn to encourage wildflowers and insects. Although the scrub is controlled, it forms an important part of this habitat, through providing cover for small animals, bird nesting sites and complete eco-systems for insects. Facilities at the park: • accessible visitor centre with toilets • café • family picnic/recreation field • part of the SUSTRANS cycle route
• education room • children’s play area • ranger service • three self-guided trails
The Vines Rochester, ME1 1RQ The Vines, Rochester is a small historic park situated at the junction of Crow Lane and Vines Lane. It is situated in the Rochester Centre conservation area and is listed as a grade two garden in the Kent Gardens’ Compendium; it has also won three consecutive Green Flags. Monks used the site to cultivate vines during medieval times. The avenue of plane trees through the centre of the park was badly damaged in the Great Storm of 1987, leading to the creation of the park’s most spectacular feature. The trunk of one of the damaged trees was left rooted into the ground and then carved with a chainsaw into the shape of a monk. Overlooking the park is the important Restoration House, where Charles II stayed on the eve of the restoration 1660. The house was admired by Samuel Pepys and taken as the inspiration by Charles Dickens for Satis House, the home of Miss Havisham in Great Expectations.
Other sites and projects RSPB Northward Hill Within close distance of Medway but hidden away on the Hoo Peninsula RSPB Northward Hill is a real oasis of peace and tranquillity. The site is set on a ridge with fantastic views over the North Kent Marshes and Thames Estuary. A number of way-marked trails take visitors across open country, orchards, farmland and woodland. In spring, the bluebell wood is definitely worth a visit. In summer, Northward Hill’s marshland viewpoint is a favoured spot for picnickers. The site also boasts great wildlife with one of Europe’s largest heronries, one of the UK’s largest colonies of little egrets and a gigantic rookery. Among other birds, you can regularly see buzzards, marsh harriers, owls, avocets and lapwing. RSPB regularly run events designed to help visitors learn more about the site’s wildlife. Admittance is free and there is a car park, information board and toilets. For more information: www.rspb.org.uk/northwardhill
RSPB Cliffe Pools RSPB Cliffe Pools, also situated on the Hoo Peninsula, offers a spectacular landscape of open water and big skies. The site is one of the most important places for wildlife in the UK. In autumn and winter, it is not uncommon to see flocks of literally thousands of dunlin, avocet and starling. In spring, you are sure to hear the sweet song of the nightingale. Summer is a great month to bask in the sunshine and enjoy the site’s scenery, wildlife and serenity. A number of nature trails cross the reserve, affording great views of the pools and wildlife. New visitor information panels, way markers and benches and bike racks have also been installed. Admittance is free and the car park is open daily from 8.30am to 5pm. For more information: www.rspb.org.uk/cliffepools
Valley Of Visions Valley of Visions is a three-year Heritage Lottery Fund project working to improve heritage, landscape, wildlife and access within the Medway Gap and encourage people to look after, enjoy and celebrate their local area. Our extensive events programme offers a fantastic way to discover the rich heritage and wildlife of the Medway Gap with events, walks and talks for all the family available throughout the year, free of charge. For more information: www.valleyofvisions.org.uk.
Please note that all booking events must be paid for in advance.
January New Year’s Day Walk Capstone Farm Country Park Saturday, 1 January, 10am–12noon Start the year as you mean to go on and walk off last night’s excesses. Join the rangers on their annual New Year’s walk followed by a bacon butty. £3.50 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Mountain Bike Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 2 January, 9–10am Ride the trail around the park and see if you can better your lap times. For all abilities. This is a short trail with some big hills and ramps. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Tiny Tots Riverside Country Park Thursday, 6 January, 10am–1pm Arts and crafts for younger children with simple finger painting and potato printing. Suitable for accompanied children aged two to fiveyears-old. Please wear old clothes as it could get messy. £1 per child. Drop in any time, no need to book in advance.
events
Events
Tiny Tots Capstone Farm Country Park Wednesday, 19 January, 10am–1pm Arts and crafts for younger children with simple finger painting and potato printing. Suitable for accompanied children aged two to five-years-old. Please wear old clothes as it could get messy. £1 per child. Drop in any time, no need to book in advance.
Folklore Walk Capstone Farm Country Park Saturday, 22 January, 10am–12noon A must for those interested in ghosts, ghouls, fairies, myths and legends. Come on a walk with a ranger and learn about the folklore surrounding England’s flora and fauna. Wrap up warm. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Trim Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 23 January, 8.45–9.30am Come along and keep fit on our new trim trail. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Recycled Bird Feeders Riverside Country Park Sunday, 30 January, 10am–1pm Collect up old plastic drink bottles, yoghurt pots or milk cartons (make sure they are clean) bring them into the visitor centre and the rangers will help you turn them into bird feeders to hang in your garden. £1 per child. Book in advance 01634 337432.
February Mountain Bike Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 6 February, 8.45–9.30am Ride the trail around the park and see if you can better your lap times. For all abilities. This is a short trail with some big hills and ramps. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Family Fun Digital Photography Workshop Capstone Farm Country Park Saturday, 12 February, 9.30–11.30am Bring along your digital camera and be taught how to take nature photos by one of our rangers. For accompanied children aged six to 12-years-old. £3 per child. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Under The Sea Collage Riverside Country Park Tuesday, 22 February, 10am–2pm Get creative with some arts and craft materials and help create an under the sea collage, to be displayed in Riverside’s visitor centre. Suitable for accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Drop in any time, no need to book in advance.
Orienteering Family Fun Capstone Farm Country Park Wednesday, 23 February, 10am–2pm Test your orienteering skills around Capstone. Suitable for groups, families and individuals who are after a bit of an adventure. £1 per person. Book in advance 01634 338191.
Winged Wonders Riverside Country Park Thursday, 24 February 10am–12noon Birds are brilliant. Have you ever thought how they make their nests? Well come and have a go, take a wander around Riverside to gather some nestbuilding material such as, twigs, grass, moss and feathers, then make a nest of your very own. Suitable for accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. Free. Drop in any time, no need to book in advance.
Trim Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 27 February, 8.45–9.30am Come along and keep fit on our new trim trail. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
March Family Discovery Walk Riverside Country Park Saturday, 5 March, 10am–12noon Join one of the rangers in the first of three walks this year looking this time at the signs of spring. Fun and interesting for all the family. Free. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Vegetable Club Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 6 March, 10am–12pm An opportunity to learn the basics of vegetable growing. Children will be provided with their own allotment space. Activities include planting, propagating, weeding and pot making. You will be able to take home what you grow. We will meet every two weeks. £20 per child for the course, one off payment. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Trim Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 6 March 8.45–9.30am Come along and keep fit on our new trim trail. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Tiny Tots Riverside Country Park Thursday, 8 March 10am–2pm Arts and crafts for younger children with simple finger painting and potato printing. Suitable for accompanied children aged two to five-years-old. Please wear old clothes as it could get messy. £1 per child. Drop in any time, no need to book in advance.
Monster and Critter Masks Riverside Country Park Sunday, 13 March, 10am–12noon, 2–4pm Join Riverside’s rangers to make masks of the animals and bugs that live at the country park, using natural and recycled materials. Let your imagination run wild. For accompanied children aged five to12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Junior Ranger Club Riverside Country Park Saturday, 19 March, 10–11am Become a ranger for the morning and study the nature that can be found at the park. The club meets monthly and activities can range from arts and crafts to walks, pond dipping and bird watching. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Bird Sounds of Capstone Capstone Farm Country Park Tuesday, 22 March, 7–9am Listen and look for the birds in and around Capstone Farm Country Park with our experienced countryside ranger. Please wear stout footwear and appropriate clothing. Not suitable for children under 12-years-old. Free. No need to book in advance.
Tiny Tots Capstone Farm Country Park Wednesday, 23 March, 10am–1pm Arts and crafts for younger children with simple finger painting and potato printing. Suitable for accompanied children aged two to five-years-old. Please wear old clothes as it could get messy. £1 per child. Drop in any time, no need to book in advance.
Mountain Bike Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 27 March, 8.45–9.30am Ride the trail around the park and see if you can better your lap times. For all abilities. This is a short trail with some big hills and ramps. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
I Love My Mum Riverside Country Park Sunday, 27 March, 10am–1pm Show your mum how much you care, join the rangers in the visitor centre getting crafty with tissue paper and card and make your mum something fantastic. Suitable for accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance 01634 337432.
April Trim Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 3 April, 8.45–9.30am Come along and keep fit on our new trim trail. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Playbuilder Grant Launch Day Broomhill Sunday, 10 April, 2–4pm Celebrating new features in Broomhill Park, join the guided walk to admire the new installations. Free. No need to book.
Bird Sounds of Capstone Capstone Farm Country Park Tuesday, 12 April, 7–9am Listen and look for the birds around Capstone with our experienced countryside ranger. Please wear stout footwear and appropriate clothing. Not suitable for children under 12-years-old. Free. No need to book in advance.
Baty’s Bird Watch Baty’s Marsh Tuesday, 12 April, 12noon–2pm Join us for one of our seasonal drop-in events to discover some of the birds that are at this lovely site. Led by an experienced countryside ranger. Free. No need to book in advance.
Junior Ranger Club Riverside Country Park Wednesday, 13 April, 10–11am Become a ranger for a while and study the nature that can be found at the park. The club meets monthly from April - Oct and activities can range from arts and crafts to walks, pond dipping and bird watching. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Spring Food Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 17 April, 10am–12noon A spring ramble around Capstone looking at its spectacular nuts, fungi, plants and berries. An opportunity to swap some homemade recipes of any successful forages. £1 per person. Book in advance 01634 338191.
Parent and Child Fishing Teaching Capstone Farm Country Park Thursday, 21 April, 9am–12noon Learn the basics of course fishing at Capstone with our park rangers. Aimed at beginners and those wanting to improve. All equipment and bait will be supplied. This event is popular, so please book early to avoid disappointment. Suitable for children aged eight to 12-years-old. £8 per child. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Easter Bunny Hunt Capstone Farm Country Park Friday, 22 April, 11am–3pm, last entry 2.30pm Track the bunny through the park with a fun quiz trail. There will be a small prize for every child who enters. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance 01634 338191.
The English Festival Riverside Country Park Saturday, 23 April, 11am–5pm On St George’s Day come and experience a flavour of the things that help make England great. A quirky look at some of England's most iconic eras. Attractions include a 10 foot animatronic dragon, medieval knights, a man made beach, donkey rides, the sights and sounds of the 60s and marauding pirates. There will be something for everyone at this family friendly event. Free. No need to book.
Easter Bonnet Parade Riverside Country Park Sunday, 24 April, 10am–1pm Make yourself a snazzy Easter bonnet. Bring along an old hat, any style you like, to the visitor centre and together we will set about transforming it into a bright and fun bonnet. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance 01634 337432.
Mountain Bike Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 24 April, 8.45–9.30am Ride the trail around the park and see if you can better your lap times. For all abilities. This is a short trail with some big hills and ramps. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Easter Bunny Hunt Riverside Country Park Monday, 25 April, 11am–3pm, last entry 2.30pm Track the bunny through the park with a fun quiz trail. There will be a small prize for every child who enters. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance 01634 337432.
May Sweeps Festival Rochester Castle Gardens and surrounding areas, Rochester Saturday, 30 April, Sunday, 1 May, Monday, 2 May An annual festival in Medway for over 30 years, celebrating the traditional holiday for chimney sweeps. With Morris dancing, live music, and family activities planned throughout the three-day festival. Further details please visit www.whatsonmedway.gov.uk and look out in the local media. Free. No need to book in advance.
Guided Walks in Berengrave Local Nature Reserve Berengrave Nature Reserve Sunday, 1 May, 10am–12noon Come and learn something about the flora, fauna and industrial history of the site. Walks will start from the entrance in Berengrave Lane and will last about two and a half hours. Not suitable for those with walking difficulties. Not suitable for pushchairs. Dogs must be kept on a lead. May be muddy in places. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Mountain Bike Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 1 May, 8.45–9.30am Ride the trail around the park and see if you can better your lap times. For all abilities. This is a short trail with some big hills and ramps. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Bluebell Walk Capstone Farm Country Park Monday, 2 May 10am–12noon Come and ramble with the rangers to see the wonderful bluebells in our stunning woodlands. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Creative Oatmeal Clay Creatures Riverside Country Park Sunday, 8 May 10am–1pm Clay creatures as we know it but with a twist, this time we are making our own clay. It may get a little messy but after we have made the clay we can get creative and make our usual creatures of the park. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Survival Challenge Capstone Farm Country Park Saturday, 14 – Sunday, 15 May, 10.30am–10am the next day Camp out in Capstone’s woodlands with the rangers, sleeping in a shelter you have built from materials found around the park. You will cook your own food over the campfire, learn traditional woodland crafts such as tent peg making and whistle making. Are you brave enough to take on the Capstone survival challenge? For accompanied children aged seven plus. £20 per person (includes breakfast). Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Medway Flower Fair at Cozenton Park Cozenton Park, Bloors Lane, Rainham Saturday, 14 and Sunday, 15 May, 10:00am – 5:00pm Celebrate all that is good about your garden with this two day free event. Visitors will benefit from a range of specialist nurseries, children’s’ activities, garden suppliers and the horticultural expertise of Hadlow College. For more details look out on www.whatsonmedway.co.uk and in the local media. Free. No need to book in advance.
Junior Ranger Club Riverside Country Park Wednesday, 18 May 3.45–4.45pm Become a ranger for a while and study the nature that can be found at the park. The club meets monthly from April – October and activities can range from arts and crafts to walks, pond dipping and bird watching. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
It’s A Bug’s Life The Vines, Rochester Saturday, 21 May, 2–4pm Come and join Kent Wildlife Trust and The Friends of The Vines as they explore the garden looking for insects on a mini beast hunt. Inspect the park’s special stag beetle colony. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free. No need to book in advance.
Trim Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 22 May, 8.45–9.30am Come along and keep fit on our new trim trail. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Bird Sounds of Capstone Capstone Farm Country Park Tuesday, 24 May, 7–9am Listen and look for the birds that are in and around Capstone Farm Country Park with our experienced countryside ranger. Please wear stout footwear and appropriate clothing. Not suitable for children under 12-years-old. Free. No need to book in advance.
Bird Watching Berengrave to Motney in Spring and Autumn Tuesday, 24 May, 12noon – 3pm Join us for a spring and autumn bird watching walk. Suitable for absolute beginners or those with some experience. Please wear stout footwear and suitable clothing. Not suitable for children under 12-years-old. Free. No need to book in advance.
Capstone’s Family Fun Trail Challenge Capstone Farm Country Park Monday, 30 May, 9am–3pm Follow the clues around Capstone’s lovely lake and wonderful woodlands to find the rubbing plaques. Prizes for those who complete the trail. £1 per person. Drop in any time, no need to book in advance.
Mini Beast Hunt Riverside Country Park Monday, 30 May, 10am–12noon Learn to identify the creatures that can be found at Riverside in the ponds and wildflower meadows. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Teeny Tiny Catapult Craft Riverside Country Park Tuesday, 31 May, 10am–12noon Show your naughty side. Everybody loves a catapult. Come to the visitor centre and make your own table top catapult game. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
June The Rochester Dickens Festival Castle Gardens and and surrounding areas, Rochester Friday, 3 – Sunday, 5 June Come and celebrate the famous author Charles Dickens, who has lasting connections with Medway. Look out for more information on www.whatsonmedway.co.uk and in the local media. Free. No need to book in advance.
Mountain Bike Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 5 June, 8.45–9.30am Ride the trail around the park and see if you can better your lap times. For all abilities. This is a short trail with some big hills and ramps. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Bird Sounds of Capstone Capstone Farm Country Park Tuesday, 7 June, 7–9am Listen and look for the birds around Capstone Farm Country Park with our experienced countryside ranger. Please wear stout footwear and appropriate clothing. Not suitable for children under 12-years-old. Free. No need to book in advance.
Baty’s Bird Watch Baty’s Marsh Tuesday, 7 June, 12noon–2pm Join us for one of our seasonal drop-in events to discover some of the birds that can be found at this lovely site. Led by an experienced countryside ranger. Free. No need to book in advance.
Tiny Tots Riverside Country Park Thursday, 9 June, 10am-1pm Arts and crafts for younger children with simple finger painting and potato printing. Suitable for accompanied children aged two to five-years-old. Please wear old clothes as it could get messy. £1 per child. Drop in any time, no need to book in advance.
Race For Life Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 12 June, 11am–1pm Please phone 01634 338191 for more information.
Junior Ranger Club Riverside Country Park Wednesday, 15 June, 3.45–4.45pm Become a ranger for a while and study the nature that can be found at the park. The club meets monthly from April – October and activities can range from arts and crafts to walks, pond dipping and bird watching. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Fuse Festival Various locations in Medway Friday, 17, Saturday, 18 and Sunday, 19 June A weekend of cultural and arts events across Medway. For more information look out on www.whatsonmedway.co.uk and in the local media. Free. No need to book in advance.
Survival Challenge Capstone Farm Country Park Saturday, 18 – Sunday, 19 June, 10.30am –10am the next day Camp out in Capstone’s woodlands with the rangers, sleeping in a shelter you have built from materials found around the park. You will cook your own food over the camp fire, learn traditional woodland crafts such as tent peg making and whistle making. Are you brave enough to take on the Capstone survival challenge? For accompanied children aged seven years plus. £20 per person (includes breakfast). Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Mini Beast Hunt Riverside Country Park Saturday, 25 June, 10am–12noon A must for those interested in insect life. Learn to identify the creatures that can be found at Riverside in the ponds and wildflower meadows. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Trim Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 26 June, 8.45–9.30am Come along and keep fit on our new trim trail. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Broomhill Fun Day Broomhill Park, Strood Sunday, 26 June, 12noon–4pm Support our free fun day at the top of the park, an afternoon of family fun and events. We will be running activities for people of all ages. Eat an ice cream while browsing the many stalls. See press, posters or visit www.friendsofbroomhill.org.uk for details nearer the time. Free. No need to book in advance.
July Shore Line Clear Up Riverside Country Park Date to be confirmed, depending on tides 10am–1pm Join the rangers in a shoreline clean up. Stout footwear is a must. All the family can join in with this satisfying event. Please phone 01634 337432 for more information.
Re-use Recycle Riverside Country Park Saturday, 2 July, 10am–12noon Bring with you a clean empty plastic milk or juice container and one or two magazines or newspapers and together we will turn it into a fantastic plant pot. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Trim Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday 3rd July, 8.45–9.30am Come along and keep fit on our new trim trail. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Survival Challenge Capstone Farm Country Park Saturday, 9 – Sunday, 10 July, 10.30am–10am the next day Camp out in Capstone’s woodlands with the rangers, sleeping in a shelter you have built from materials found around the park. You will cook your own food over the camp fire, learn traditional woodland crafts such as tent peg making and whistle making. Are you brave enough to take on the Capstone survival challenge? For accompanied children aged seven plus. £20 per person (includes breakfast). Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Charity Cherry Picnic The Vines Saturday, 9 July, 1–4pm We will be celebrating Kentish cherries with a variety of cherry related craft stalls, competitions and children’s activities and the ever-popular sale of Kentish cherries (come early to avoid disappointment). This year’s theme will be Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations with a visit by Miss Havisham and a special opening day of Restoration House - Satis House in the novel. Free. (Admission will be charged to enter Restoration House)
Junior Ranger Club Riverside Country Park Wednesday, 13 July, 3.45–4.45pm Become a ranger for a while and study the nature that can be found at the park. The club meets monthly from April – October and activities can range from arts and crafts to walks, pond dipping and bird watching. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Castle Concerts Castle Gardens, Rochester Wednesday, 13 – Saturday, 16 July Peter Andre will be performing Thursday, 14 July. The remaining acts will be announced in the New Year. Visit www.castleconcerts.co.uk or 01634 338338 for information and to book.
Young People’s Concert Castle Gardens, Rochester Sunday, 17 July Now in it’s fourth year this concert showcases talented young musicians. Look out for details at www.whatsonmedway.co.uk Free.
Guided Walks in Berengrave Local Nature Reserve Berengrave Nature Reserve Sunday, 17 July, 10am–12noon Come and learn something about the flora, fauna and industrial history of the site. Walks will start from the entrance in Berengrave Lane and will last about two and a half hours. Not suitable for those with walking difficulties. Not suitable for pushchairs. Dogs must be kept on a lead. May be muddy in places. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Tiny Tots Capstone Farm Country Park Wednesday, 20 July, 10am–1pm Arts and crafts for younger children with simple finger painting and potato printing. Suitable for accompanied children aged two to five-years-old. Please wear old clothes as it could get messy. £1 per child. Drop in any time, no need to book in advance.
Mountain Bike Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 24 July, 8.45–9.30am Ride the trail around the park and see if you can better your lap times. For all abilities. This is a short trail with some big hills and ramps. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Orienteering Family Fun Capstone Farm Country Park Tuesday, 26 July, 10am–2pm Test your orienteering skills around Capstone. Suitable for groups, families and individuals who are after a bit of an adventure. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Medway Mile Castle Gardens, Rochester Wednesday, 27 July Be part of Medway's annual countdown to the start of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Join thousands of runners and walkers of every age, ability, shape and size complete a one-mile course at the exact time the opening ceremony will begin in 2012. Free. For further information visit www.medway.gov.uk/london2012
Parent and Child Fishing Teaching Capstone Farm Country Park Thursday, 28 July, 9am–12noon Learn the basics of course fishing at Capstone with our park rangers. Aimed at beginners and those wanting to improve. All equipment and bait will be supplied. This event is popular, so please book early to avoid disappointment. Suitable for children aged eight to 12-years-old. £8 per child. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Mini Beast Hunt Riverside Country Park Tuesday, 30 July 10am–12noon A must for those interested in insect life. Learn to identify the creatures that can be found at Riverside in the ponds and wildflower meadows. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
August Parent and Child Fishing Teaching Capstone Farm Country Park Thursday, 4 August, 9am–12noon Learn the basics of course fishing at Capstone with our park rangers. Aimed at beginners and those wanting to improve. All equipment and bait will be supplied. This event is popular, so please book early to avoid disappointment. Suitable for children aged eight to 12-years-old. £8 per child. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Creative Clay Creatures Riverside Country Park Thursday, 4 August, 10am–12noon Take a walk around Riverside with one of the rangers, trying to spot some of the wildlife that lives at the park. On your return to the visitor centre you will have the chance to make clay models of what you have seen. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Trim Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 7 August, 8.45–9.30am Come along and keep fit on our new trim trail. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Family Discovery Walk Riverside Country Park Wednesday, 10 August, 10am–12noon Join one of the rangers on the second of three walks this year looking this time at the signs of summer. Fun and interesting for all the family Free. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Parent and Child Fishing Teaching Capstone Farm Country Park Thursday, 11 August, 9am–12noon Learn the basics of course fishing at Capstone with our park rangers. Aimed at beginners and those wanting to improve. All equipment and bait will be supplied. This event is popular, so please book early to avoid disappointment. Suitable for children aged eight to 12-years-old. £8 per child. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Survival Challenge Capstone Farm Country Park Saturday, 13 – Sunday, 14 10.30am –10am the next day Camp out in Capstone’s woodlands with the rangers, sleeping in a shelter you have built from materials found around the park. You will cook your own food over the camp fire, learn traditional woodland crafts such as tent peg making and whistle making. Are you brave enough to take on the Capstone survival challenge? For accompanied children aged seven years plus. £20 per person (includes breakfast). Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Capstone’s Family Fun Trail Challenge Capstone Farm Country Park Tuesday, 16 August, 9am–3pm Follow the clues around Capstone’s lovely lake and wonderful woodlands to find the rubbing plaques. Prizes for those who complete the trail. £1 per person. Drop in any time, no need to book in advance.
Monster and Critter Masks Riverside Country Park Tuesday, 16 August, 10am–12noon, 2–4pm Join Riverside’s rangers to make masks of the animals and bugs that live at the country park, using natural and recycled materials. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Treasure Trove Trail Riverside Country Park Wednesday, 17 August, 11am–2pm, last entry 1.30pm Find the riverside pirate and his treasure, following a fun quiz trail around the park. Small prizes for every child that enters. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Drop in any time, no need to book in advance.
Parent and Child Fishing Teaching Capstone Farm Country Park Thursday, 18 August, 9am–12noon Learn the basics of course fishing at Capstone with our park rangers. Aimed at beginners and those wanting to improve. All equipment and bait will be supplied. This event is popular, so please book early to avoid disappointment. Suitable for children aged eight to 12-years-old. £8 per child. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Teddy Bears’ Picnic Capstone Farm Country Park Monday, 29 August, 11am–2pm. Book in advance on 01634 338191. Riverside Country Park Tuesday, 30 August, 11am-2pm. Book in advance on 01634 337432. Bring your picnic along and join in the fun. There will be storytelling, fun and games. Most importantly don’t forgot to bring your teddy bear. For accompanied children aged three to seven-years-old. £2.50 per child.
September Lets Go Batty at Capstone Farm Country Park Dates and times to be confirmed A wildlife walk with a difference. Starting at dusk, it’s an incredible opportunity to see the bats that live around the park – led by the Kent Bat Group and the rangers at Capstone. £2 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Mountain Bike Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 4 September, 8.45am - 9.30am Ride the trail around the park and see if you can better your lap times. For all abilities. this is a short trail with some big hills and ramps. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Will Adams Festival Gillingham Park Saturday, 10 September, 11am–4.30pm An annual Medway festival, celebrating our links with Japan forged by the Gillingham-born seafarer Will Adams. Look out for further details at www.whatsonmedway.co.uk and in the local media. Free. No need to book.
Recycled Bird Feeders Riverside Country Park Sunday, 11 September, 10am–1pm Collect old plastic drink bottles, yoghurt pots or milk cartons (make sure they are clean) bring them into the visitor centre and the rangers will help you turn them into bird feeders to hang in your garden. £1 per child. Book in advance 01634 337432.
Kite Making Workshop Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 11 September, 10am–2pm Join the rangers in making kites in the visitor centre then wrap up warm to fly them in Capstone’s rather bracing winds. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £2.50 per child. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Junior Ranger Club Riverside Country Park Tuesday, 13, 3.45–4.45pm Become a ranger for a while and study the nature that can be found at the park. The club meets monthly from April – October and activities can range from arts and crafts to walks, pond dipping and bird watching. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Autumn Food Capstone Farm Country Park Saturday, 17 September, 10am–12noon An autumn ramble looking at Capstone’s spectacular nuts, fungi, plants and berries. An opportunity to swap some home made recipes of any successful forages. £1 per person. Book in advance 01634 338191.
Guided Walks in Berengrave Local Nature Reserve Berengrave Nature Reserve Sunday, 18 September, 10am–12noon Come and learn something about the flora, fauna and industrial history of the site. Walks will start from the entrance in Berengrave Lane and will last about two and a half hours. Not suitable for those with walking difficulties. Not suitable for pushchairs. Dogs must be kept on a lead. May be muddy in places. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Volunteer Taster Day Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 18 September, 10am–2pm Come and help the Capstone Park volunteers with hay raking and clearing to help improve our wild flower meadows. This is an ideal opportunity to learn what we do and to talk to volunteers. Refreshment will be provided. Free. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Baty’s Bird Watch Baty’s Marsh Tuesday, 20 September, 12noon–2pm Join us for one of our seasonal drop-in events to discover some of the birds that can be found at this lovely site. Led by an experienced countryside ranger. Free. No need to book in advance.
Bird Watching Berengrave to Motney in Spring and Autumn Tuesday, 20 September, 7–10am Join us for a spring and autumn bird watching walk. Suitable for absolute beginners or those with some experience. Please wear stout footwear and suitable clothing. Not suitable for children under 12-years-old. Free. No need to book in advance.
Tiny Tots Capstone Farm Country Park Riverside Country Park Wednesday, 21 September, 10am–1pm Arts and crafts for younger children with simple finger painting and potato printing. Suitable for accompanied children aged two to five-years-old. Please wear old clothes as it could get messy. £1 per child. Drop in any time, no need to book in advance.
Kite Making Workshop Riverside Country Park Sunday, 25 September, 10am – 1pm Join the rangers making kites in the visitor centre then wrap up warm to fly them in Capstone’s rather bracing winds. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £2.50 per child. Book in advance.
The Capstone Festival Capstone Farm Country Park Saturday, 25 September, 11am–4pm A new look and theme to the annual kite festival. Look out for more details at www.whatsonmedway.co.uk and in the local media. Free. No need to book in advance.
Trim Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 25 September, 8.45–9.30am Come along and keep fit on our new trim trail. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
October Bird Box and Animal Home-making Riverside Country Park Saturday, 1 October, 10am–12noon An opportunity to enrich the wildlife found in your garden by creating new habitats. £5 per home. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Mountain Bike Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 2 October, 8.45–9.30am Ride the trail around the park and see if you can better your lap times. For all abilities. This is a short trail with some big hills and ramps. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Survival Challenge Capstone Farm Country Park Saturday, 13 – Sunday, 14, 10.30am–10am the next day Camp out in Capstone’s woodlands with the rangers, sleeping in a shelter you have built from materials found around the park. You will cook your own food over the camp fire, learn traditional woodland crafts such as tent peg making and whistle making. Are you brave enough to take on the Capstone survival challenge? For accompanied children aged seven plus. £20 per person (includes breakfast). Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Bird Box and Animal Home-making Capstone Farm Country Park Saturday 15th October, 10am – 12noon An opportunity to enrich the wildlife found in your garden by creating new habitats. £5 per home. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Junior Ranger Club Riverside Country Park Saturday, 15 October, 10–11am Become a ranger for a while and study the nature that can be found at the park. The club meets monthly from April – October and activities can range from arts and crafts to walks, pond dipping and bird watching. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Bulb Planting Day The Vines Tuesday, 18 October, meet at 1.30pm Join the Friends of The Vines for their annual bulb planting event to add to a beautiful display and bring colour to the gardens throughout the year. Volunteers need to bring their own planting tools (trowel/dibber). Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free. No need to book in advance.
Apple Day Hillyfields, Gillingham Saturday, 22 October, times to be confirmed A community-organised event by the Friends of Hillyfields, to celebrate the community orchard. Fun activities for all the family. Free. No need to book in advance.
Kent Coastal Week Riverside Country Park Saturday, 22 – Sunday, 30 October A celebration of the Kent coast, this programme provides free or subsidised events for the people of Medway and Kent right round our 350 miles of varied coastline and takes place during the autumn break. Ask at reception for information on activities at Riverside during this week. More information can be found at www.coastalkent.net.
Trim Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 23 October, 8.45–9.30am Come along and keep fit on our new trim trail. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Autumnal Leaves Riverside Country Park, Tuesday, 25 October, 10am–12noon Celebrate the end of the summer and the start of autumn with this children’s craft workshop making collages with the seeds, berries and autumn leaves which you will collect from around the park. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Drop in any time.
Halloween Walk Capstone Farm Country Park Wednesday, 26 October, 6.15–7.15pm and 7.30–8.30pm Prepare to be scared out of your skin on our annual spooky ghost walk, only for the very brave. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £3 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Family Discovery Walk Riverside Country Park Wednesday, 26 October, 10am–12noon Join one of the rangers on the last of three walks this year looking this time at the signs of autumn. Fun and interesting for all the family Free. Book in advance on on 01634 337432.
Halloween Walk Riverside Country Park Thursday, 27 October, 6.15–7.15pm and 7.30–8.30pm Prepare to be scared out of your skin on our annual spooky ghost walk, only for the very brave. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £3 per person. Book in advance on 01634 337432
November Scarecrow Making Riverside Country Park Saturday, 5 November, 10am–1pm Demonstrate your creativity and make the best scarecrow for bonfire night. Bring some old clothes to dress your scarecrow and we will provide the stuffing. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £2.50 per child. Book in advance on 01634 337432.
Bonfire and Fireworks Night Great Lines Heritage Park Saturday, 5 November Look out for more information at www.whatsonmedway.co.uk and in the local media. Free. No need to book in advance.
Trim Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 6 November, 8.45–9.30am Come along and keep fit on our new trim trail. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Tiny Tots Riverside Country Park Wednesday, 9 November, 10am–2pm Arts and crafts for younger children with simple finger painting and potato printing. Suitable for accompanied children aged two to five-years-old. Please wear old clothes as it could get messy. £1 per child. Drop in any time, no need to book in advance.
Autumnal Leaves Riverside Country Park Sunday, 20 November, 10am-12noon Celebrate the end of the summer and the start of autumn with this children’s craft workshop making collages with the seeds, berries and autumn leaves which you will collect from around the park. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. Drop in any time, no need to book in advance.
Tiny Tots Capstone Farm Country Park Wednesday, 23 November, 10am–1pm Arts and crafts for younger children with simple finger painting and potato printing. Suitable for accompanied children aged two to five-years-old. Please wear old clothes, as it could get messy. £1 per child. Drop in any time, no need to book in advance.
Mountain Bike Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 27 November, 8.45–9.30am Ride the trail around the park and see if you can better your lap times. For all abilities. This is a short trail with some big hills and ramps. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Baty’s Bird Watch Baty’s Marsh, Tuesday, 29 November, 12noon–2pm Join us for one of our seasonal drop-in events to discover some of the birds that can be found at this lovely site. Led by an experienced countryside ranger. Free. No need to book in advance.
December Trim Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 4 December, 8.45–9.30am Come along and keep fit on our new trim trail. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Tree Dressing Riverside Country Park Sunday, 5 December, 11am–1pm Join the ranger in a tree dressing morning. Tree dressing aims to encourage the celebration of trees during National Tree Week. Spend some time in the visitor centre making decorations for the trees around the park, then pop outside and decorate. For accompanied children aged five to 12-years-old. £1 per child. No need to book in advance.
Memories of Capstone Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 11 December, 10am–12noon Come on a walk with a ranger to learn about the history surrounding the Capstone area from the 1900s onward. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Mountain Bike Trail Capstone Farm Country Park Sunday, 18 December, 8.45–9.30am Ride the trail around the park and see if you can better your lap times. For all abilities. This is a short trail with some big hills and ramps. £1 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191.
Santa At The Park Riverside Country Park - Tuesday, 20 December, 1–4pm Capstone Farm Country Park - Wednesday, 21 December, 1–4pm Santa will be visiting the country parks. If you have been good all year, come down and say hello. There will be art and craft activities where you can make and decorate your own Christmas card, every child who meets Santa will get a small prize. £2.50 per child. Book in advance before 11 December 01634 337432.
STROOD
RAINHAM
Whatever your age, ability or background, there are lots of opportunities to get involved as a volunteer, improving Medway’s parks and greenspaces. You may like the idea of helping with practical conservation tasks, manning a visitor centre or becoming involved in guiding the future development of the greenspace. Joining a local conservation, volunteering or friends of group can give you: • a sense of achievement; • a new way of getting fresh air and exercise; • the opportunity to meet new people; • improved skills and knowledge; • an opportunity to improve your local environment. We need your help to improve Medway’s parks and greenspaces. If you are interested in joining one of Medway’s conservation volunteer groups please contact the group directly using the details provided below:
Medway Urban Parks and Green Spaces Forum The forum formed in 2006 bringing together existing friends, community and amenity groups interested in supporting, promoting, developing and protecting our parks, gardens, leisure, historic and recreation areas. We encourage the formation of new groups and can supply an introductory leaflet and a resource pack covering anything from arranging the first meeting of local users to risk assessment for events. We monitor agreed projects and are consulted on local strategies. Meet: See press for details or join the forum mailing list. Contact: Pat Cooper Phone: 07948 342081 Email: medwayupgsf@yahoo.co.uk Web: www.mupgsf.btik.com
volunteering
Volunteering
Capstone Park Volunteers The volunteers carry out a wide range of tasks including; planting shrubs, path clearing and repairing, coppicing, wildlife surveys and helping at park events. Meet: One group meets every Tuesday, and the other group meets one Sunday a month. Contact: Rob Reid (Ranger) Capstone Farm Country Park, Capstone Road, Gillingham ME7 3JG Phone: 01634 338191 Email: capstonefarmcp@medway.gov.uk
Friends of Berengrave Berengrave and Rainham Dock East Local Nature Reserves are located at the junction of Berengrave Lane and the Lower Rainham Road in Rainham. They are the sites of the old Motney Hill cement works and associated chalk quarry. The group works with Medway Council to conserve and enhance the existing biodiversity, promote the use for educational and scientific purposes and research the history and industrial archaeology of the site Meet: Ad hoc as important matters arise Contact: Brian Baker (Chairman) 31 Chalky Bank Road, Gillingham, ME8 7NP Phone: 01634 233014 Email: friendsberengrave@btinternet.com Web: www.friendsofberengrave.btck.co.uk
Borstal Open Spaces Society Borstal open spaces is a voluntary group, encompassing the Borstal Recreation Ground and Baty’s Marsh. The group meets regularly to discuss issues relating to the sites and organise work parties throughout the year for example marsh clear ups, tree cutting, litter picks etc. All with the objectives to co-operate with Medway Council to ensure that the open spaces are protected from development, to enhance the use of the site and their environmental values. Meet: Volunteer days every three to four months and committee meetings every two months. Contact: Jacqui Baty (Chairman) Email: info@borstalopenspaces.org.uk Web: www.borstalopenspaces.org.uk
Friends of Broomhill Broomhill is much used and loved by those who know it. The friends are actively involved in working to keep the area clear and tidy and to move forward the vision plan. Since our inauguration three years ago, we have already managed to upgrade footpaths, installed improved signage and fitted bollards and gates to combat fly tipping and vandalism. We work closely with the neighbourhood police to combat these nuisances, too. We have
also promoted the involvement of young people in site management. The group arranges tasks and events throughout the year – for up to date information visit their website. Meet: Annual General Meeting, Thursday, 19 May, 7pm at Strood Library. Task days: First Sunday of January, February and March, working with the council’s Greenspaces Ranger Service we will be holding scrub removal and thinning tasks. You are most welcome to attend, meet in the car park at the end of King Arthur’s Drive at 11am. Contact: Odette Buchanan (Secretary) 72 Jersey Road, Strood ME2 3PE Phone: 01634 718231 Email: odette_buchanan@yahoo.co.uk Web: www.friendsofbroomhill.org.uk
Cuxton Countryside Group A long-running group which supports Plantlife, Medway Council and Cuxton Parish Council in the management of sites on the western edge of Medway. Meet: Every third weekend of the month. Contact: Ian Gray Phone: 01634 716334 Email: ian.gray@kcl.ac.uk
Friends of Hillyfields Hillyfields is a large informal open space with a small remnant orchard. The Friends of Hillyfields meets regularly to discuss local issues with the park, organise events, planting days and litter picks. Meet: Every five or six weeks, for tasks, committee meetings and events Contact: Pat Cooper Email: friendsofhillyfields@hotmail.co.uk
Friends of Levan Strice Volunteer Group Levan Strice Wood located on Fairview Avenue in Rainham. The friends of group carries out tasks within the woods like path building, litter clearance, looking after the meadow and supporting the council with woodland management tasks. Meet: Once a month throughout the winter and early spring Contact: Simon Bellinger (Conservation Ranger) Capstone Farm Country Park, Capstone Road, Gillingham, ME7 3JG Phone: 01634 338191 Email: simon.bellinger@medway.gov.uk Web: www.levanstrice.ik.com
Friends of the Great Lines Heritage Park The newly formed Friends of the Great Lines Heritage Park meet regularly to discuss issues with the park and organise community led events, such as litter picking. They work closely with Medway Council to promote the historical significance and biodiversity of the site. Contact: Nicola Moy (GLHP Project Officer) Phone: 01634 334319 Email: nicola.moy@medway.gov.uk
Friends of Rede Common Located on Watling Street, Rede Common is the last piece of open countryside in Strood and the group works, to preserve and protect the site for generations to come. Views from the ridge stretch all the way round the compass, from Grain in the east, past Sheppey, over entire Medway, across to Burnham Downs and the hills surrounding Maidstone to the south, and Cobham Woods in the west. The group has also been the lead in the creation of The Strood Community Trail, launched in December 2010, which passes through the site. Meet: Every third Saturday of the month to undertake tasks on the common Contact: Rita Hunt (Treasurer) 160 Hawthorn Road, Strood ME2 2HS Phone: 01634 295580 Email: ritahunt@talktalk.net
Medway Towns Conservation Volunteers The group performs a large range of tasks from reed clearance, building steps, litter picking, weeding, pruning, scrub clearance, planting and general maintenance duties around Riverside Country Park. Meet: Once a month Contact: Jim Fulwood (Chairman) C/o Riverside Country Park, Lower Rainham Road, Rainham, ME7 2XH Email: riversidecp@medway.gov.uk
Riverside Country Park Volunteers The group meets once a month on a Sunday to perform a number of tasks including step building, meadow cutting, litter picking, tree pruning and planting, reed pulling and reception cover. Meet: Approximately once a month Contact: Darren Sweeting at Riverside Country Park, Lower Rainham Road, Gillingham, Kent ME7 2XH Phone: 01634 337432. Email: riversidecp@medway.gov.uk
Thursday Volunteer Group The thursday group is a council-led volunteer group helping to manage areas of ancient woodland and chalk grassland for public access and conservation in Medway. Meet: Most Thursdays, throughout the year Contact: Simon Bellinger (Conservation Ranger) Capstone Farm Country Park, Capstone Road, Gillingham ME7 3JG Phone: 01634 338191 Email: simon.bellinger@medway.gov.uk Web: www.thursdaygroup.ik.com
Friends of The Vines A friends group that actively encourages the renaissance of the historic garden. The group meets six times a year and supports Medway Council’s improved Green Flag management of the area. The group also works with Kent Wildlife Trust to highlight wildlife in the Vines. Contact: Sarah Griffin Email: smgriffin1@hotmail.com
Friends of Gillingham Park The group was established to realise the community value of this Victorian park on the edge of Gillingham town centre. The group run community events to support the council in working to restore the site. Contact: Clare Lanes Email: clare.lanes@medway.gov.uk
Friends of Horsted Valley A recently formed group which will be working with the council and other organisations to plan and undertake positive land and public access works at Horsted Farm and heading North towards Chatham. Phone: 01634 666880
Feedback Greenspace Services are keen to provide continuous improvement in how the service is delivered. If you have any comment please contact us: Greenspace Services, Medway Council, Gun Wharf, Dock Road, Chatham ME4 4TR
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01634 333333 email: greenspaces@medway.gov.uk web: www.medway.gov.uk/greenspace
Events
Your guide to our events 2011 Greenspace Services hosts a number of large events in Medway in the summer. More details can be found in the events section of this leaflet…
The English Festival Riverside Country Park Saturday, 23 April
Charity Cherry Picnic The Vines, Rochester Saturday, 9 July
Tiny Tots - arts and crafts
Bloors Lane, Rainham Saturday, 14 - Sunday, 15 May
Halloween Walks
Riverside Country Park and Capstone Farm Country Park ils Various dates, see inside for deta
Mountai
n Bike Tr ail
Capston Various d e Farm Country P a ates, see inside fo rk r details
G6137
and Riverside Country Park Park try un Co m Capstone Far details for ide ins see Various dates,
Medway Flower Fair at Cozenton Park
Greenspace Services - countryside, parks and people