Parklife The magazine of Nene Park Trust, Peterborough
AUTUMN/WINTER 09
|
ISSUE 4
INCLUD ES
Events Listing s Pages 6 &7
www.neneparktrust.org.uk
Chief Executive’s View Many thanks to the thousands of people that visited Ferry Meadows on August 8 and 9 to celebrate Nene Park Trust’s 21st birthday.
The combination of an exciting range of events, glorious weather, and lots of hard work over two long days by the Trust team ensured our most successful weekend ever. Our intention was to raise the profile of Nene Park Trust, and to highlight what’s on offer at Nene Park. The event certainly achieved that.
contents
2 3 4 5 6-7 8 9 10
Chief Executive’s View 21st Anniversary Celebrations Ferry Meadows Goes Greener Peterborough Sculpture Trust Nene Park Trust events The Visitor Centre Cafe Get Ready for Firework Fiesta Fishing at Ferry Meadows
Having properly celebrated the past 21 years, our thoughts now turn to the future. Over the coming months, I will be working with the Board of Trustees on an ambitious and exciting new Strategy for Nene Park Trust, to set out our main aims and objectives for Nene Park. We have already received some great ideas for areas we might look to develop and improve in the future - please keep these thoughts coming. Our biggest challenge is to build on our successes and continually enhance the Park for visitors and wildlife, but ensure that we do this sustainably, so that the Trust continues to thrive as one of the leading independent parks management bodies in the UK. As work on our plans takes shape, do look out for updates on our website over the winter – your views on this are really important to us. Many thanks, James McCulloch Chief Executive, Nene Park Trust
We hope you enjoy reading this edition of Parklife. If you require Parklife in a Braille, audio or large text format please contact Nene Park Trust on the details below. If you would like to make any comments or go on our mailing list to receive information about the Park and future editions of Parklife, please write or email to Nene Park Trust at the address below. Telephone: 01733 234193 Address: Nene Park Trust, Ham Farm House, Ham Lane, Peterborough PE2 5UU Email: visitor.services@neneparktrust.org.uk Website: www. neneparktrust.org.uk Parklife is published by Nene Park Trust and produced by Connaught Media Advertising, Marketing and Public Relations – www.connaught-media.co.uk. The paper used for this publication has been produced using wood sourced from sustainably managed forests and is fully recyclable. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material published in Parklife. Nene Park Trust and the Publishers cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers or contributors and any rights reserved. No part of Parklife may be reproduced, stored in any form of retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any other means, electronic, photographic, mechanical or otherwise without the prior written permission of the Publishers. Copyright Nene Park Trust 2009.
2
AUTUMN/WINTER 09 | ISSUE 4
21st Anniversary Celebrations 2009 was Nene Park Trust’s 21st anniversary year and to celebrate, the Trust hosted a couple of high profile public events which Susan Taylor, the Trust’s Visitor Services Manager looks back on. Picnic in the Park with BBC Radio Cambridgeshire On 31st July, Ferry Meadows became the home for BBC Radio Cambridgeshire’s “That Friday Feeling” afternoon show with Jane Smith. Visitors were invited to a Picnic in the Park with the BBC Radio Cambridgeshire and Nene Park Trust teams. Jane invited picnickers to request a song and recount their views of Nene Park while children were entertained by making and flying kites with the Park Rangers. Many of the businesses involved with the park featured in the broadcast as did Trust staff including the Chief Executive James McCulloch, who gave listeners the history and background of the Trust as well as a glimpse into its future plans. After the event Jane said “What a brilliant afternoon! A chance to escape from the studio for some family fun in the great outdoors at our Picnic in the Park. Thanks to our friends at Ferry Meadows for making it all possible.”
Nene Park Trust 21st Birthday Family Fun Weekend
Across both days, visitors were also treated to a host of activities and demonstrations from countryside crafts, sports activities and even helicopter rides. Trust staff were out in force to talk to members of the public on the Trust’s information stand plus we had tree climbing and equipment displays. All of which, from these quotes and pictures, seemed to hit the spot with an estimated 20,000 visitors across the weekend; Fantastic day. Was husband’s birthday and we had a great time. Should happen more often. From Heart FM website A great day out. From Peterborough Evening Telegraph website I thoroughly enjoyed myself at this event and would love to see an annual “Nene Park Festival of Rock” at Ferry Meadows. From Peterborough Evening Telegraph website It was brilliant, in terms of choice of things to do, many of them free, and the atmosphere created... and I would love to see this sort of event become an annual thing. Kev Lawrence from Peterborough Evening Telegraph column The Trusts’ Board, staff and tenants were delighted to see the busiest ever weekend at Ferry Meadows and the fantastic comments we’ve received from visitors on the day and since, so the final question on everyone’s lips is – will this become an annual event in the Trust’s calendar? Well for now, we’ll just say watch this space...
The biggest event the Trust has ever hosted took place over the weekend of 8th and 9th August and had two very different themes: Saturday was “Party in the Park” day with Heart FM taking us back to the 80’s with appearances from Pat Sharp, Limahl from Kajagoogoo and an 80’s tribute act. Sunday became a more relaxed day aimed at “Play and Picnic in the Park” with the Great Ouse Kite Flyers giving kite displays, fun fair rides for the children and even poetry readings in the willow garden. AUTUMN/WINTER 09 | ISSUE 4 3
Ferry Meadows
Goes Greener... V
isitors to the Park of a similar age to some of the Rangers will surely remember the Wombles with fond memories. These furry television stars would scour Wimbledon common for litter before “making good use of the things that we find, things that the everyday folk leave behind�. Well, although the majority of the park staff are slightly less hairy than the Wombles, we too spend many hours clearing our sites of litter. To assist with this important task, visitors to Ferry Meadows are now able to help the environment by using the new recycling facilities throughout the park.
The wooden bins in the park have undergone a transformation with the vast majority now double fronted with one side for general waste and the other for recyclables. Each bin is clearly marked with signs to show visitors where to put their waste. The scheme within the park will be similar to the general household recycling that most people are used to with the only major difference being that at the present time we cannot recycle glass. If you do bring any form of glass into the park it can be put into the general waste bin or, preferably, please take it home and put it into your household recycling or a bottle bank. The environmental advantages of recycling are massive. For example, recycling one two litre plastic bottle saves enough energy to power a 60W light bulb for six hours! There is also a large benefit to Nene Park Trust
4
AUTUMN/WINTER 09 | ISSUE 4
as the cost of waste being collected for recycling is much less than waste heading for landfill. The money that this saves can be spent on making further improvements to the Park. An added bonus is that dog waste can now be included with the general waste, meaning that dog walking visitors will have a much greater number of bins in which to dispose of their poo bags. So please, as before, scoop the poop but now instead of carrying it to a dog bin just deposit it in a bin marked for general waste. We hope that this will eradicate the doggy bags hanging from the trees and bushes in the park as not only are they unsightly they also pose a health hazard to the Park Rangers when the time comes to coppice or trim the hedges. We are delighted that this new scheme is now up and running and we are confident that visitors to the Park will also be glad to join in. How do we know this? Because one of the most popular requests from our visitor survey undertaken last year was the wish to be able to recycle within the Park. If you require further information about recycling in Ferry Meadows or have any other comments please contact visitor.services@neneparktrust.org.uk
Steve Wickens, Park Ranger
This sculpture, entitled Celebration, was crafted during Nene Park Trust’s 21st Birthday Weekend. Visitors attached waste plastic items onto a wire frame under the guidance of artists from Peterborough Sculpture, using everything from bottle tops to a watering can. Celebration represents water meeting land and people coming together to enjoy it – as at Ferry Meadows itself!
Peterborough Sculpture Trust Peterborough Sculpture Trust has been working with sculpture in Peterborough for twenty-one years this year.
T
here are around thirty sculptures Peterborough Sculpture Trust looks after, the majority of them being at Thorpe Meadows near the Rowing Lake, the closest part of Nene Park to Peterborough city centre. The sculptures are a mixture of materials – wood, stone, bronze and steel - either carved, caste or welded.
into the cities built environment as well as maintaining its association with the Nene Park Trust. For more information about Peterborough Sculpture Trust and pieces in the collection please visit www.peterboroughsculpture.org Ian Duckworth, Peterborough Sculpture Trust
Some sculpture highlights include, ‘Festival Boat’ by Sokari Douglas Camp, whose form is based on large ritual boats used in Nigeria during Festivals. It was commissioned for its site next to the River Nene. ‘Cormorant’ by Elizabeth Cooke was first brought into the Park on loan from the artist but was so popular it has now been added to the permanent collection. The work from found metal objects assembled together connects with the plentiful bird life attracted by the expanses of water in Nene Park. Over on the North side of the rowing lake next to the Nene Parkway is ‘Second Entrance’ by Lee Grandjean, a familiar site to motorists. This sculpture is made from ‘Iroko’ wood and from its prominent position the West Front of Peterborough Cathedral can be clearly seen. Outside of the Thorpe Meadows area are a number of standalone sculptures. One to note is John Maine’s work called ‘Pyramid.’ It is made from large blocks of Portland stone and its sharp white outline can be seen distinctly on the far side of the Ferry Meadow’s Gunwade Lake. Peterborough Sculpture Trust also maintains a number of other sculptures within Peterborough and hopes in the future to be a more active organisation and help reintroduce sculpture
Second Entrance Sculpture AUTUMN/WINTER 09 | ISSUE 4 5
Walks, Talks, Events and Discovery Day Programme • Walks, Talks, Events and D 2009 Wildlife Explorers The Big Sleep 25 October 10:00 - 12:00 Ever wondered why animals hibernate? Well come along and find out why. We will also be looking at what we can do in our gardens to help some of our creatures through the winter. See general information section for more details. Booking essential.
Collecting Acorns 27 October 14:00 - 16:00 Join Park Ranger Ashley Wheal for a chance to grow an acorn into a tree. A short illustrated talk will show you how important oaks are for our Purple Hairstreak Butterflies. This will be followed by a walk to gather a few acorns for you to pot up (materials supplied) and take home. We will be very happy for you to bring one tree back the following year to plant out in Oak Meadow. Booking required.
Wednesday Wander 28 October 10:00 – 15:00 An opportunity to wander some of the rights of way in and around Nene Park in the company of Park Rangers Dave Linscott and Rachel Storey. This will be up to 10 miles and may take up to five hours. Suitable outdoor clothing will be necessary. Age 18 plus. Ability to cover the distance, majority is on unmade paths. Please bring rucksack with lunch. Dogs welcome.
Beginners Photography 29 October 14:00 – 16:00 We know you love spending time in Ferry Meadows, but are you happy with your photos? If not, then join Nene Park Ranger Ashley Wheal for a beginners course. It does not matter what type of camera you have. Booking required. Bring your Camera.
A Guided Walk with a Park Ranger 18 November 13:30 (lasting approx 3hrs) Join Nene Park Ranger Ian Lowe for a walk around Ferry Meadows and surrounding areas, pointing out points of interest along the way and answering any questions you may have. This will last approx. 3 hours. Unfortunately due to the terrain wheelchairs or prams are not advised. Suitable footwear is advised as not tarmac throughout walk. Please book in advance.
Dog Walk 18 November 10.00 -12.00 Come and join Park Rangers Rachel Storey and Gary Mason with your dog for a guided walk around Ferry Meadows. Due to the terrain this walk isn’t suitable for pushchairs or wheel chairs. Please book in advance.
6
AUTUMN/WINTER 09 | ISSUE 4
Hedge Laying Demonstration 21 November 10:00 – 15:30 This is a chance to see and talk about this traditional countryside craft with Park Rangers David and Greg. Hedge laying enables maintenance of healthy and wildlife friendly hedgerows by encouraging vigorous fresh spring growth in the following year. Lynch plantation. Demo will be signed from Ham Lane on the day.
Tree Planting 25 November 10.00 – 12.00 Come and join in the fun and help NPT in their winter tree planting program with Park Ranger Gary Mason. This event is for all ages. Children under 16 must be supervised by an adult. Please wear suitable footwear boots or Wellington boots. Booking is essential.
Take a Walk on the Wild Side 28 November 10:00 – 12:30 Find out more about the history and hidden secrets of Thorpe wood, Longthorpe with Park Ranger Greg Higby. Please book in advance.
Wildlife Explorers Feed the birds 29 November 10:00 – 12:30 How can we help our garden birds this winter? We will be showing you how to make some simple Bird feeders. There will be a charge of £2 to cover the cost of materials etc. See general information section for more details. Booking essential.
Discovering Trees 2 December 13:30 – 16:00 Join Nene Park Trust Ranger Ashley Wheal and find out some fascinating tree facts. There will be an illustrated talk in the visitor centre, followed by a walk to identify some of our native trees.
Step Back in Time 5 December 10:00 – 12:30 Join Park Ranger Greg Higby on a walk back to the early days of Nene Park Trust. Suitable outdoor footwear and clothing will be necessary. Suitable for all abilities.
Wildlife Explorers Winter Fun, Games and Surprises 13 December 10:00 – 12:30 We will be indoors at Ferry Meadows where there will be things to make, quizzzes to do and fun and games to be played. See general information section for more details. Booking essential.
Discovery Day – From Bottle To Bird Feeder 21 December 10:00 – 12:00 Park Ranger Steve Wickens will show you how make a recycled bird feeder from a plastic bottle. Please bring your own empty plastic bottle. Drop in at the Visitor Centre.
2010 Beginners Photography 6 January 14:00 – 16:00 Please see 29 October for details. Booking required. Bring your Camera.
Tree Planting 20 January 10:00 – 12:00 Come and spend two hours and help Park Rangers Gary Mason and Rachel Storey plant trees in Lynch wood. Booking is essential. Age 10 to adults please wear suitable footwear, boots or wellies. Children under sixteen must be supervised by an adult. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
A Guided Walk with a Park Ranger 27 January 13:30 - 15:30 Join Park Ranger Ian Lowe for a walk around Ferry Meadows and surrounding areas, pointing out points of interest along the way and answering any questions you may have. Suitable for wheelchairs and prams as routes are tarmac throughout. Please book in advance.
Wildlife Explorers Big Garden Birdwatch 31 January 10:00 - 12:00 How many birds can you see in an hour or two? Come along and help with our annual Big Garden Birdwatch, a national survey recording garden and hedgerow birds. They enjoy a winter walk around Ferry Meadows to look at other winter wildlife. See general information section for more details.
Discovery Day – Nest Box Making 17 February 10:00 – 12:00 Make a nest box with a Park Ranger as part of National Nest Box week. We will be looking at ways that we can help our garden and woodland birds. This event will be taking place near the Visitor Centre. Charge £5 to help cover the cost of materials. Pre booking only. Under 14’s must have adult supervision.
Wildflowers or Weeds? 24 February 13:00 – 15:00 Join Park Ranger Peter Gentleman and learn about which wildflower seeds we sow and manage. Help to sow some seeds then come back in the summertime and see them in full bloom. Drop in event. Directions signs will be in place from the Visitor Centre.
Discovery Day Programme • Walks, Talks, Events and Discovery Day Programme Walk in the Woods 20 March 10:00 – 12:00 Join Park Rangers Gary Mason and Rachel Storey for a walk through Lynch Wood and Bluebell Wood. Learn something of the history and maintenance of these woods.This walk is for all ages. No dogs please. Suitable footwear is advised as some paths are not tarmac and due to ground conditions this walk is not suitable for pushchairs or wheel chairs. Please book in advance. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Beginners Photography 24 March 14:00 – 16:00 Please see 29 October for details. Booking required. Bring your Camera.
A Guided Walk with a Park Ranger
Groups using Nene Park 2009/2110 Sunday 11 October Great Ouse Kite Flyers, Club Fly in Tel: Jill Ferrer 01733 563958. Sunday 18 October British Association of Radio Control Soarers (model gliding). Tel: Alan Morton 07986 238172. Sunday 25 October Great Ouse Kite Flyers, Club Fly in Saturday 31 October Firework Fiesta www.fireworkfiesta.com Sunday 08 November British Association of Radio Control Soarers
Sunday 22 November Great Ouse 24 March, 13:30 (lasting Kite Flyers, Light Up the Sky for Children In Need. Tel: Jill Ferrer approx. 3hrs) Join Park Ranger Ian Lowe for a walk 01733 563958. around Ferry Meadows and surrounding areas, pointing out points of interest along the way & answering any questions you may have. This will last approximately 3 hours. Unfortunately due to the terrain wheelchairs or prams are not advised. Suitable footwear is advised as some paths are not tarmac. Please book in advance.
Bird Watching Walk 31 March 13:30 - 16:00 Join the Visitor Services Officer Chris Park and Park Ranger Ashley Wheal on a Bird watching walk in Ferry Meadows. They will help you identify the regulars and hopefully some newly arrived spring visitors. Bring your binoculars.
Ramble from River to Rail 7 April 09:30 - 13:00 Join Park Ranger Steve Wickens for a gentle 6 mile stroll along the River Nene to Wansford where we will catch a train at the Nene Valley Railway to return to the park. Not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. No age restriction but participants must be able to complete distance. Activity will cost £3 per person to cover the costs of the Nene Valley Railway.
Walk to Fitness 20 April 18:00 – 19:00 Come and join Park Rangers Rachel Storey and Gary Mason for a brisk hour walk around Ferry Meadows to help improve your fitness levels and to meet new people.. No booking required. We suggest you bring a bottle of water.
Saturday 5 December Santa Fun Run in aid of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices Contact tel: 07847 953586 Email: karen.chesney@each.org.uk Saturday 5 December Peterborough Guild of Dyers, Spinners & Weavers. John Horrell Room at the Visitor Centre. Tel: Pauline Smith 01733 330942 Sunday 13 December British Association of Radio Control Soarers Sunday 27 December Great Ouse Kite Flyers, Club Fly in. 2010 Sunday 10 January British Association of Radio Control Soarers Sunday 24 January Great Ouse Kite Flyers, Club Fly in Sunday 7 February British Association of Radio Control Soarers Sunday 28 February Great Ouse Kite Flyers, Club Fly in Sunday 7 March British Association of Radio Control Soarers Sunday 21 March Sport Relief Mile www.sportrelief.com Sunday 28 March Great Ouse Kite Flyers, Club Fly in Sunday 11th & 25th April Great Ouse Kite Flyers, Club Fly in For a full list of other groups using the and dates of events then please also see the Nene Park Trust Website www.neneparktrust.org.uk
General Information The Walks • Park Ranger led walks are informal and intended for anyone who has an interest in the countryside. They are suitable for the whole family and usually last approximately two hours covering no more than two miles (unless otherwise stated). • All walks will have regular stops on route and start at the Visitor Centre in Ferry Meadows (unless otherwise stated). • Unless there are extreme weather conditions the Park Ranger will be there. However please ensure that you wear suitable outdoor footwear and are fully prepared for weather conditions. • Binoculars are always useful. • All the walks and events are free unless otherwise stated.
Dogs Dogs on leads are welcome on walks (unless otherwise stated). Please check individual events. Assistance dogs are welcome on all events. Please help to keep Ferry Meadows enjoyable by cleaning up behind your dog.
Family Discovery Days 10:00am - 12:00. Meet at Ferry Meadows Visitor Centre. These are mostly free although some have a small charge to cover the cost of materials. These activities are intended for parents/guardians/carers and children to discover and learn together and have fun. They will usually be suitable for children aged 5 - 12 years. Families should consist of one or two adults with a maximum of three children per adult. Some require booking as spaces are limited.
Wildlife Explorer Events Wildlife Explorers is the junior membership of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). The group aims to encourage young people to take an active interest in birds, wildlife, and their environment by having fun via a mix of games, activities, indoor and outdoor meetings. Activities are suitable for children aged 7 – 12 years. There is a charge of 50p for members and £1 for non-members. Adults go free. Children who are not RSPB members are welcome, however you will be encouraged to join Wildlife Explorers after their first two sessions.
Enquiries and booking for Events For event enquiries and where events require pre-booking please contact the telephone number or email address given below. Or if applying in writing, to the address below, please include the names of those attending (for children’s events please include ages), plus a contact address and telephone number.
For bookings and further details of any events please contact: Nene Park Trust, Ham Farm House, Ham Lane, Peterborough PE2 5UU. Tel: (01733) 234193 Email: visitor.services@neneparktrust.org.uk Website: www.neneparktrust.org.uk AUTUMN/WINTER 09 | ISSUE 4 7
NEWS Visitor Centre
or the first time in the history of Nene Park Trust, Ferry Meadows Visitor Centre will be open throughout the winter.
F A View from Ferry Meadows Café
S
ome of you may remember the poetry competition that we ran this year, with the starter line being - Ferry Meadows Country Park... We would like to say a big thank you to all who took part and we really enjoyed reading all of your contributions. After some difficult judging by Nene Park Trust Chief Executive James McCulloch, two winners were chosen. For the long and short poem these were Joan Shakespear and Peter Reuben respectively who will receive prizes of £25 Marks & Spencers vouchers. Well done! Our thinking caps are still on as to what we will be doing next year but we will be announcing this soon so please keep your eyes open for posters and on the Nene Park Trust website. Best wishes from Christine & the team at the Ferry Meadows Café.
Christine Conlon, Manager of Ferry Meadows Café
Ferry Meadows Country Park Is just the place to take a walk Almost as soon as you enter there A feeling of peace pervades the air Your mind can relax and see no strife However mixed up is your life
The gift shop aims to cater for everyone including activities for the outdoors:
Have you ever flown a kite? Now is the time, we have an excellent range both in size and price, Footballs, cricket sets, boules and badminton sets are just a few from our selection.
Do you enjoy a relaxing picnic in the park? We have a lovely selection of picnic blankets from recycled all wool to waterproof back rugs. We also have bits and pieces for the children for both indoors and out, with gardening kits, or insect exploring, to tracing the wildlife you’ve just seen in the park.
Gill Duberry Visitor Centre Assistant
The tranquil water reflecting light Sometimes dull and sometimes bright But when the sun does its face unfold There in the water is an orb of gold How can you not feel your spirits rise When upon such beauty you feast your eyes
Ferry Meadows Country Park Full of Natures wondrous art Where Man and Nature work together To give us all a visual pleasure The place to while away some time In surroundings so sublime.
Within these meadows you can find many ways To clarify your thoughts and reassess your days And, hopefully, when you take your leave Your stress has receded and a sigh you’ll heave You decide to return as often as you may To renew yourself another day
Lakes and trees and birds abound Flora and fauna scatter the ground Come rain or sun, wind or snow The park will give a glorious show So spend some time and walk in me Or perhaps repose beneath leafy tree.
Joan Shakespear
Peter Reuben
AUTUMN/WINTER 09 | ISSUE 4
Since the Visitor Centre was re-vamped in December 2007, and following the arrival of the new Visitor Services Manager Susan Taylor in February 2009, we have improved the service and expanded the range considerably. But it doesn’t stop there. Thanks to funding through the Natural Networks partnership we will soon be developing a new interactive interpretation area, which we are looking forward to opening around Easter.
So why not visit us and have a browse and with Christmas just around the corner why not come and find a more unusual gift.
The sight and sound of myriad birds Speak to you without any words To see the trees in their seasonal clothes The changing scents that infuse your nose The ground which breaks with bursting shoots Will help to anchor you to your roots
8
The Visitor Centre is a multi purpose area, with a gift shop, an information section from which you can get a map of Ferry Meadows, leaflets of interest and the place to find a member of our team.
Get ready for
Firework Fiesta! S
o just what is the biggest event annually at Ferry Meadows? Can you guess? Well it takes place at night in the dark, around 15,000 people attend each year, and it typically generates over £20,000 for local Peterborough Charities. Four hundred and four years have passed since the original gunpowder plot of Guy Fawkes and his colleagues fizzled out, but Peterborough’s Firework Fiesta ensures locals remember the date in style. As one of the UK’s largest privately organised firework displays, it brings revellers together in the park not only to see the winter sky light up in explosive spectacle but also to enjoy a fun evening for the whole family. The Mayor starts the festivities by lighting a massive warming bonfire. Local Radio station Lite FM brings a music stage show and broadcasts live from the event. Talented local bands join the entertainment with other celebrities and visiting pantomime stars. A selection of favourite fairground rides is set up alongside and a good variety of fast food vendors ensures that no one need go away hungry. Rotary and Round table clubs, who organise the event each year, are ably supported by other Peterborough volunteers. “The sheer scale of Firework Fiesta presents the greatest challenge”, explains Rotarian Marcus Horrell whose father helped found the event some 35 years ago with the aim of making fireworks displays safer for families. Rotarian and safety officer for the show Vicky Woodward, runs Anglia Planning Supervisors Ltd adds, “The effort put in by everyone is super – every time. Safety is always our topmost priority: the positioning of the fireworks across the lake, the movement of crowds around fast food vendors and the fairground, and the flow of traffic and people in and out. It helps that it is a great family occasion and the crowds are always very well behaved.” So as the nights draw in, make a date on Saturday 31st October with some friends for this year’s Firework Fiesta and enjoy the most dazzling nighttime show in Peterborough’s calendar. www.fireworkfiesta.com John Hill, Firework Fiesta Committee Chairman
Horse Riding in the Nene Park ocated on the South Western edge of Ferry Meadows is Lynch Farm Equestrian Club Ltd., one of Cambridgeshire’s foremost riding centres.
L
Opened in 1978, the centre caters for riders of all standards from complete beginners to students working towards high-level professional instructor’s exams. Riders can start to learn as young as four years of age with twenty-minute lead rein sessions. They can then progress to the “Mighty Might’s” which are half hour group sessions for the under 6’s. We also cater for more mature riders of whom many are ‘returner’ riders as well as total beginners. Several of our beginner riders are in their 50’s and 60’s. Over the years, hundreds of our riders have made the transition from complete beginner to horse owner. Some just riding out for pleasure others competing at high levels. The Centre has a covered floodlit arena allowing for all year riding in all weathers. Hacking (riding out in the Nene Park) is available for experienced riders who are able to control their mount at walk, trot and canter however, to guarantee a hack it is advisable to book well in advance. Whether you are a complete beginner, returner rider or just want to get yourself riding fit prior to a riding holiday please contact us at: Lynch Farm Equestrian Club Ltd. Wistow Way, Orton Wistow, Peterborough, PE2 6XA 01733 234445 Duncan Brown Owner Lynch Farm Equestrian Club Ltd. AUTUMN/WINTER 09 | ISSUE 4 9
Fishing at Ferry Meadows
T
here are two large lakes within Ferry Meadows: Overton, which has a small island at the southwest corner, and Gunwade, which is the bigger of the two waters. The River Nene feeds the lakes and it is from this river that fish stock arrives. Over the years, both lakes have proved to be excellent Bream waters, regularly attracting big named anglers to the banks in search of three-figure weights of Bream. If you go by the waters usually high standard then the last couple of seasons have not been quite so good, but in contrast the Roach and skimmer fishing on a pole and waggler have never been better. Big fish anglers have also enjoyed some outstanding sport. For several years the water was untapped as far as Carp fishing was concerned, but as news spread in the specimen fishing world about some huge fish being taken, more and more Carp anglers have tried the waters. Even through the winter months it is not unusual to see several anglers with three rods out, looking for a big Carp. Several fish of 30lb were taken last year and at least one of 40lb-plus was recorded. Predator anglers have also enjoyed some cracking Pike and Zander fishing, with the better sport recorded by those braving the winter elements, with Zander to double figures and Pike to 20lb-plus taken on Mackerel tails, Lamprey and Smelt. For Zander, small micro barb rigs have been used, fishing quite close with the best action coming at dusk. Pike seem to feed through the day, sometimes hard to locate but in very good condition when you do net them. Many people prefer to fish at long range with large leads and big baits, during the summer, we’ve seen more people using popped up baits, while in winter static on the bottom is the preferred approach. Hot pegs on Overton Lake for Zander and Pike have been on the point and also in the early 20s while on Gunwade head for the 60s through to the 80s. Another hot spot at most times of the year is the narrow cut between the two lakes especially for Zander. There is a strict no night fishing rule in place on both lakes; fishing is from dawn till dusk with the standard close season rule still in place on most of the complex. However on Gunwade lake there is closed season fishing available from Pegs 65-97. It is £4 for a day ticket from the Peterborough District Angling Association bailiff but for just £24 you can get a PDAA club book, which also entitles you to fish approximately seven miles of the River Nene. For more information on Fishing in Nene Park please go to the PDAA website at www.pdaa.info Leon Snart, Park Assistant
From Willow tree to
Cricket Bat A Brief History of Cricket The English game of cricket started in the South East probably with a ball of wool or rag bowled at a gate and a shepherds crook as the bat. In the 17th century the game grew in popularity particularly in the south of the country. The first Cricket club was formed in Hambleton, Hampshire. Cricket became fashionable and London soon became the place to play cricket with several clubs being formed, most notable the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), which used Lords as its ground. In 1835 MCC came up with crickets first set of rules, most of which still form the basis of the game we know today. The first international test match was played between England and Australia in 1877. South Africa became the third playing nation in 1889. India West Indies and New Zealand joined before the Second World War. Pakistan followed soon after. By the end of the 20th century Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe and Bangladesh had joined the ranks of the test playing nations. The Cricket Bat Willow Cricket Bat Willow is a variety of White Willow Salix alba var caerulea that are grown from cuttings called sets. The sets are planted between December and February. The side shoots are regularly removed to create a straight knot free trunk. The trees are usually harvested after 15 to 20 years. Once the trees have been felled they are cut into 28-inch lengths and split into rough bat shaped sections called Clefts, these are left to dry for about a year. At this stage the wood is pressed to withstand the impact of a ball, the bat is machine shaped and a V is cut and a handle is added. The final shaping is carried out by hand and a rubber grip is fitted to the handle. The bat is finally checked for faults and graded. Once this final test is passed the bat is ready for sale. Cricket Bat Willows in Nene Park The first Cricket Bat Willow sets were planted in Ferry Meadows about 35 years ago some of which were harvested in 1997. A second set of trees was added to the existing stock about 10 years ago. Regular maintenance has been carried out on the trees. This involves removing side shoots to produce timber that is straight and knot free to ensure trees will be of suitable quality for the cricket bat market. For more information on Cricket bat willows go to www.cricketbatwillow.com
10
AUTUMN/WINTER 09 | ISSUE 4
Gary Mason, Park Ranger
AUTUMN/WINTER 09 | ISSUE 4 11
Nene Park provides visitors with a variety of outdoor leisure experiences in an accessible network of open space and waterways, and is a gateway to the open countryside for the people of Peterborough. This plan shows the boundaries of the Park, and the key facilities within the estate along with specific contact details for more information. Nene Park Trust is the independent self financing Charitable Trust that manages over 2,500 acres of land to the west of Peterborough, including the 500 acre Ferry Meadows Country Park. The Trust was established in 1988 with the aim of improving the quality of life for Peterborough residents and visitors through providing quality and accessible open spaces, and is overseen by a Board of Management representing a range of local, regional and national bodies.
Nene Park - What are you doing today?
Play Golf!
What are you doing today? LAKESIDE
Two Great Courses- Two Great Choices
Cafe and Bar
ORTON MEADOWS Golf Course Orton Waterville, Peterborough PE2 5UU Tel: 01733 237478 www.ortonmeadowsgolfcourse.co.uk
Come and enjoy homemade food in beautiful surroundings
THORPE WOOD Golf Course Thorpe Wood, Peterborough PE3 6SE Tel: 01733 267701 www.thorpewoodgolfcourse.co.uk
• Pay as you play
• Open 365 days of the year • Available for parties, corporate events and business meetings
Visitors Centre Cafe Tea Time Catering Enjoy a relaxing Ferry Meadows Cream Tea overlooking Overton Lake. Enjoy the view, enjoy our hospitality!
• Ample parking
• Club and Trolley Hire • Large well-stocked Golf Shops • 12-hole Pitch & Putt Course at Orton Meadows • Golf Societies welcome
Horse Riding in Nene Park
LYNCH FARM EQUESTRIAN CLUB LTD WISTOW WAY • ORTON WISTOW PETERBOROUGH • PE2 6XA
www.lynchfarmriding.co.uk TEL:
01733 234445
Lakeside Cafe & Bar, next to the Watersports Centre, Ferry Meadows Tel: 01733 370293 lakesidecafeandbar@yahoo.co.uk
Lakeside Leisure Peterborough’s Premier Family Outdoor Leisure Facility
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 • 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
visit: www.lakesideleisure.com
01733 234418 Lakeside Leisure, Watersports Centre, Ferry Meadows, Ham Lane, Peterborough PE2 5UU
Tel: 01733 234493
Ferry Meadows Railway Nene Park, Peterborough
• A train ride for children of all ages from 1 to 91 ! • Take a ride across the park from Ham Lane to the Watersport Centre • Trains run every weekend and throughout the school holidays (Monday is our day off)
Tel: 01933 398889 www.ferrymeadowsrailway.co.uk
Visit Santa W\ VWa 5`]bb] T`][
Ac\ROg #bV <]dS[PS` <]bQcbba 5O`RS\ 1S\b`S =c\RZS @]OR =`b]\ EObS`dWZZS 1OZZ %!! !"$ eee \]bQcbba Q] cY
Disabled? Come and enjoy the freedom of sailing ... every Tuesday and Thursday from April to October at the Watersports Centre, Ferry Meadows
For more information
Tel: 07948 262919 or email: peterborough.sailability@hotmail.co.uk