Events
Great BAT WALK - September 2024.
A group of Friends joined an evening Bat Walk in the park. Starting at the car park they walked slowly up the Friend's Path to the bridleway and down to the lake. As our eyes became accustomed to the evening light we hardly noticed it getting dark until a beautiful moon in the clear sky made the evening complete. Several species of bat were seen, albeit briefly and recognised by our Bat Detectors. More information on the varieties coming soon. It was a lovely evening, thanks to Richard B. for leading the walk and telling us all about the bats, how they live and thrive in the park. Thanks to member SS for these photos.
A group of Friends joined an evening Bat Walk in the park. Starting at the car park they walked slowly up the Friend's Path to the bridleway and down to the lake. As our eyes became accustomed to the evening light we hardly noticed it getting dark until a beautiful moon in the clear sky made the evening complete. Several species of bat were seen, albeit briefly and recognised by our Bat Detectors. More information on the varieties coming soon. It was a lovely evening, thanks to Richard B. for leading the walk and telling us all about the bats, how they live and thrive in the park. Thanks to member SS for these photos.
Wild flower walk - June 2024
A great morning. It was cloudy with a suggestion of rain - then it came down like a wet blanket all over us! HOWEVER - we were not deterred and determined to make the most of the morning we walked into the meadow next to the car park and gradually the clouds blew over and there were plenty of sunny spells. Thanks to two expert guides the number of wildflowers seen in the meadows was impressive. These were brick fields in the past and the top soil was removed and clay dug and carted away for bricks. What was left behind was an ideal environment for wildflowers. Thanks to RDC's management of the meadows, cutting and removing the hay each year, we now have the soil conditions that they like and you can see from the photos taken by Friends on the walk that at this time of year the meadows look beautiful. They also sound pretty good - larks are once again nesting, flying and singing over the fields. It is beautiful.
Thanks to those on the walk who have shared these photos with us.
Thanks to those on the walk who have shared these photos with us.
SPRING WALK - April 22nd 2023
The previous week's weather may have put off a few walkers but those that joined us enjoyed a beautiful spring morning - some sunshine, no rain, little wind - it was ideal. Setting off from the car park at Cherry Orchard Way we walked through the Community Orchard, admired the pear blossom and carried on to the Friends' Path. Passing what is probably one of the oldest trees in the park, an ash, that has been there for at least 400 years, we carried on through the meadows and paths to Pooh Sticks Bridge then up along the field margin to the west of The Scrubs to admire the bluebells. the MOST IMPORTANT LESSON learned - DON'T walk on the bluebells. It takes 100 years for bluebells to spread just 1 metre - and just 1 month's footfall to kill them. So please don't walk over the bluebells - not even for that special photo!
Making our Christmas Wreaths - December 11th 2022
After two 'COVID' years Christmas Wreath making is back on the Agenda.
Thanks to everyone who came and made a wreath with us on Sunday 11th December. We had a great morning, using hazel hoops and greenery from the park to make our Christmas wreaths, helped along by mince pies, mulled wine and good company. A lovely morning - thanks everyone.
After two 'COVID' years Christmas Wreath making is back on the Agenda.
Thanks to everyone who came and made a wreath with us on Sunday 11th December. We had a great morning, using hazel hoops and greenery from the park to make our Christmas wreaths, helped along by mince pies, mulled wine and good company. A lovely morning - thanks everyone.
BAT WALK October 1st, 2022
The Friends first Bat Walk was very successful - something we will certainly hope to be able to do again, maybe next year. The weather was just right. Following a rainy night when hunting for food would have been difficult, the bats were ready to come out this evening. Just before sunset the first bats were seen and the echo location bat detectors started their noisy chatter. It was a fascinating evening and we learned so much. A focus of the evening was to record the location and type of bats seen and definite sightings of three different types of bats were recorded with maybe a fourth; common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, Daubenton's and possibly noctule. Thanks go to Richard and Ashley, both mines of information and a great help with the bat detectors. A great 'Friends' walk.
Short video from member Charlotte D. Many thanks Charlotte.
Bluebell Walk April 2022
THAT WENT WELL!
A beautiful spring morning, birds singing, sun shining - and bluebells! A real treat - 4k walk from New England Wood, through Rawreth Wood, round Hockley Wood and back.
A beautiful spring morning, birds singing, sun shining - and bluebells! A real treat - 4k walk from New England Wood, through Rawreth Wood, round Hockley Wood and back.
Get to know the park walk.
A great walk on Sunday 18th July, planned for new members to get to know the park. On the day there was a good mix of members new and old, or should we say - established!
We walked in the morning - a wise choice as temperatures rose so that by midday we were glad to be walking back in the shade.
Special thanks go to Richard and Ashley who were able to tell us so much about the park, it's history from the ice age, why the woods are coppiced, not to tread on bluebells and the names of the ever increasing variety of wild flowers. We learned that wild flowers like an impoverished soil so understand why the meadows are cut for hay and the hay taken off. We also noticed that the greatest variety of wild flowers, including rare varieties of orchid, common century (which isn't as common as it's name suggests), 'fox and cubs', can be seen in the eastern meadow where in the past the rich top soil was removed so that clay for bricks was accessible. Now we can see a colourful tapestry of wild flowers.
We walked in the morning - a wise choice as temperatures rose so that by midday we were glad to be walking back in the shade.
Special thanks go to Richard and Ashley who were able to tell us so much about the park, it's history from the ice age, why the woods are coppiced, not to tread on bluebells and the names of the ever increasing variety of wild flowers. We learned that wild flowers like an impoverished soil so understand why the meadows are cut for hay and the hay taken off. We also noticed that the greatest variety of wild flowers, including rare varieties of orchid, common century (which isn't as common as it's name suggests), 'fox and cubs', can be seen in the eastern meadow where in the past the rich top soil was removed so that clay for bricks was accessible. Now we can see a colourful tapestry of wild flowers.
New Year's Day 2020 - HAPPY NEW YEAR! Here are some photos of our New Year Walk. Yes - it was very muddy. Did it put us off? NO - we were intrepid! Great walk, good friends, excellent start to the year. Thanks to all who came along, looking forward to seeing you again in 2020.
Sunday 8th December 2019 - Lovely Sunday morning creating Christmas Wreaths with greenery prunings from the park and a sparkling array of decorations. How very creative our members are! Beautiful wreaths, mince pies, mulled wine - great start to Christmas. Thanks to all who joined in.
Sunday 21st July 2019 - Friends of Cherry Orchard Park were happy to once again support the annual Kirste 5 memorial race.
Congratulations to all the runners and thanks to our volunteers at our cheering/water point. We cheered, we clapped, we whistled, we waved... we gave water, ice and for some... a short sit down.
Congratulations to all the runners and thanks to our volunteers at our cheering/water point. We cheered, we clapped, we whistled, we waved... we gave water, ice and for some... a short sit down.
On Sunday 28th April we enjoyed our Spring Walk in the park, this time taking a route into New England Wood and Grove Wood. In recent years considerable work has taken place in New England Wood. RDC have initiated a coppicing programme and provided a hard pathway through the wood. This has let in light and protected the ground enabling the reappearance of the bluebells, remembered by those Eastwood residents who grew up in the area in the 1950's, 60's and 70's. The carpet of bluebells is back and now it's down to us to look after it for future generations.
On Wednesday, 10th April 2019, Friends of Cherry Orchard Park MADE A DIFFERENCE!
We took part in the Great British Spring Clean and litter picked in and around our park. Our Conservation Volunteers, Members, friends and neighbours, young and old put in the effort to make our environment a better and safer place to be, for ourselves, for wildlife, for the planet.
We did it together!
We took part in the Great British Spring Clean and litter picked in and around our park. Our Conservation Volunteers, Members, friends and neighbours, young and old put in the effort to make our environment a better and safer place to be, for ourselves, for wildlife, for the planet.
We did it together!
New Year's Day Walk
Happy New Year! Friends enjoyed a great walk this morning, through the park and on to the Cock Inn. The year is off to a very good beginning! Thanks all for your company this morning, your friendship and your commitment to the Friends group and the park.
December 2018 -
Merry Christmas! Preparations getting underway here - Friends of the park making their Christmas Wreaths using greenery and hazel rings from the park. Tea, coffee, mince pies and mulled wine. Very festive. Thanks everyone, it was great!
Merry Christmas! Preparations getting underway here - Friends of the park making their Christmas Wreaths using greenery and hazel rings from the park. Tea, coffee, mince pies and mulled wine. Very festive. Thanks everyone, it was great!
Kirste 5 memorial race - 22nd July 2018 - Friends of Cherry Orchard Park delighted to support this very good cause.
Kirste was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, and underwent six bouts of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. She passed away on February 9th 2012, at the age of just 42 after raising more than £50,000 for breast cancer charities by running 23 marathons while fighting the disease.
Kirste was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, and underwent six bouts of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. She passed away on February 9th 2012, at the age of just 42 after raising more than £50,000 for breast cancer charities by running 23 marathons while fighting the disease.
Wildflower Walk - June 10th 2018
Fantastic morning in the park today. The meadows are full of wildflowers at the moment and Richard and Ashleigh gave our Wildflower walk an added dimension.. so much information! Thoroughly enjoyable, look forward to doing it again! Special mention to the children who were exceptional and didn't once say that their legs ached!
Fantastic morning in the park today. The meadows are full of wildflowers at the moment and Richard and Ashleigh gave our Wildflower walk an added dimension.. so much information! Thoroughly enjoyable, look forward to doing it again! Special mention to the children who were exceptional and didn't once say that their legs ached!
Bluebell Walk - April 29th 2018
It was certainly cold and breezy but we thoroughly enjoyed our walk. The bluebells were beautiful and, thanks to our wonderful leader Richard we all learned so much. Not only about the bluebells and other wild flowers coming into bloom now, but also about the archeology of the woods from the ice age and iron age, and the social history too. Those who were with us will agree I think that 'in this neck of the woods' Richard is most definitely 'top dog'.
It was certainly cold and breezy but we thoroughly enjoyed our walk. The bluebells were beautiful and, thanks to our wonderful leader Richard we all learned so much. Not only about the bluebells and other wild flowers coming into bloom now, but also about the archeology of the woods from the ice age and iron age, and the social history too. Those who were with us will agree I think that 'in this neck of the woods' Richard is most definitely 'top dog'.
New Year's Day Walk
Well that was a very wet walk - but as always, walking with friends is a great way to start the year. Not everyone managed the to get all the way to The Bull, but those that did enjoyed lunch and a drink to set them up for the walk back. Thanks for your company, despite the weather it was very enjoyable.
Well that was a very wet walk - but as always, walking with friends is a great way to start the year. Not everyone managed the to get all the way to The Bull, but those that did enjoyed lunch and a drink to set them up for the walk back. Thanks for your company, despite the weather it was very enjoyable.
Christmas Wreath Making. Well... "The weather outside was frightful.... but the company so delightful!" We had a great time this morning and Friends made some spectacular Christmas Wreaths. Well done everyone, you're getting so good at this! Special thanks to Richard for his tuition and advice and for gathering all the greenery from the park for us. We had mince pies, thank you Mo and Linda, tea, coffee, biscuits and mulled wine. A great start to our festive season.
Sunday 16th April 2017: A group of Friends rose early yesterday morning and met to hear the dawn chorus in the park. Well not quite dawn! Just after 6am the group gathered to hear birder Neil Sumner of Essex Wildlife Trust, point out the songs of bird after bird. Gradually we became able to tell a song thrush from a blackcap, a robin from a great tit. At this time of the year the park is busy with birds singing to stake a claim to their territories and attract a mate. With Neil’s help we were able to identify chiff chaffs, great tits, blue tits, robins, dunnocks, thrushes, blackbirds, yellow hammers, long tailed tits, chaffinches and even a willow warbler. We saw swallows (more than two) and there were swans on the lake. We were able to stand close enough to a hollow birch to clearly hear the great spotted woodpecker inside, hollowing out its nest space; and we heard the ‘yaffle’ call of the green woodpecker. It was quite cool in the early morning and everyone was very pleased to stop for a very welcome hot drink and bacon roll. As we walked back the sun came out and spring blossomed across the park. We are all looking forward to another bird song walk, next year. Thanks to Neil Sumner for his time and expertise. Thanks to Sandie for a great breakfast.
Sunday 1st January 2017, New Year's Day walk.
A FOCOP tradition now, we really enjoyed our walk, despite the gloomy weather forecasts. Meeting friends, fresh air and exercise - great resolutions for the rest of the year too.
A FOCOP tradition now, we really enjoyed our walk, despite the gloomy weather forecasts. Meeting friends, fresh air and exercise - great resolutions for the rest of the year too.
Sunday 11th December, 2016, Christmas Wreaths
Great morning with Friends, making our Christmas Wreaths with greenery from the park. Sunshine, mince pies, mulled wine, tea, coffee - Christmas starts now! Thank you to Richard for his expertise and to Linda for the mince pies!
Great morning with Friends, making our Christmas Wreaths with greenery from the park. Sunshine, mince pies, mulled wine, tea, coffee - Christmas starts now! Thank you to Richard for his expertise and to Linda for the mince pies!
Sunday 25th September, Foraging Walk.
The weather was kind to us and we had a very informative walk looking at the fruits of the hedgerow and fungi. We were lucky to have two experts with us this year. Committee member Richard was full of facts about the fruits and seeds and foraging expert Tim Chilcott pointed out the various fungi and told us all about them. Fascinating, we want to know more! After the walk everyone gathered at the Friends gazebo and enjoyed tea and coffee, scones with home made jam and taste tested sloe gin and rosehip syrup. A very enjoyable Sunday morning. Let's do it again.
We would like to give special thanks to Tim, who gave up his Sunday morning for us and helped make our walk so interesting and enjoyable. Tim is an expert in more that just foraging. You can find out about him on his website here, https://www.greenmanknives.com/
The weather was kind to us and we had a very informative walk looking at the fruits of the hedgerow and fungi. We were lucky to have two experts with us this year. Committee member Richard was full of facts about the fruits and seeds and foraging expert Tim Chilcott pointed out the various fungi and told us all about them. Fascinating, we want to know more! After the walk everyone gathered at the Friends gazebo and enjoyed tea and coffee, scones with home made jam and taste tested sloe gin and rosehip syrup. A very enjoyable Sunday morning. Let's do it again.
We would like to give special thanks to Tim, who gave up his Sunday morning for us and helped make our walk so interesting and enjoyable. Tim is an expert in more that just foraging. You can find out about him on his website here, https://www.greenmanknives.com/
August 29th 2016 - Bank Holiday Monday. We were delighted to see so many people enjoying the park yesterday morning and pleased to chat with them and share a cup of coffee and a biscuit. It's great to get the views of park users and we also had the opportunity to meet Rochford Cllr Arthur Williams who came to the park especially to meet with us and chat about the park's future and opportunities. A very positive occasion, thanks to all who stopped to say hello.
April 24th 2016 - Dawn Birdsong Walk. A large group of friends braved a cold wet morning to join expert birder Neil Sumner on a walk through the park. Blackbird, song thrush, robin, wren, chiff chaff and great tit were just a few of the birds identified and the group was lucky enough to hear and see a yellow hammer. Despite the weather all agreed that it had been a very enjoyable walk and look forward to another such outing later in the year if possible.
Thanks to Chris Taylor for recording the birdsong for us.
Thanks to Chris Taylor for recording the birdsong for us.
March 2016 "Clean for the Queen" An excellent turnout of Friends and volunteers from RDC, KFC, Macdonald's and Lookers set to in the park and cleared bags and bags of litter. Well done and thank you to all who worked so hard.
February 2016 - Working with Essex Wildlife Trust to improve the stream, Nobles Green Ditch, part of the River Roach. Friends were invited to help. More information about this project here.
Thanks to Samantha Dyer for these photographs.
New Year's Day Walk - Friday 1st January 2016
It was lovely to see so many Friends on what has now become an annual event. The weather was kind to us - no wind - no rain - a bit chilly. Bracing!
We set off at 11:00 am and arrived with a thirst at The Bull well before 12:30 pm. After suitable refreshment the walk home seemed quicker - all downhill and by mid afternoon we were home and washing the mud off our boots. Thanks to all who made the effort to come out - this event gets more popular each year! It was lovely to see so many of you.
It was lovely to see so many Friends on what has now become an annual event. The weather was kind to us - no wind - no rain - a bit chilly. Bracing!
We set off at 11:00 am and arrived with a thirst at The Bull well before 12:30 pm. After suitable refreshment the walk home seemed quicker - all downhill and by mid afternoon we were home and washing the mud off our boots. Thanks to all who made the effort to come out - this event gets more popular each year! It was lovely to see so many of you.
Wreath Making - December 2015
We had to abandon our plan to make the wreaths in the park. The weather forecast was for heavy rain most of the morning. In the circumstances we moved 100 yards up the road and made use of some undercover shelter for decorations and refreshments while still making the wreaths in the fresh air. We were delighted to welcome so many people this year - thank you all for coming!
We had to abandon our plan to make the wreaths in the park. The weather forecast was for heavy rain most of the morning. In the circumstances we moved 100 yards up the road and made use of some undercover shelter for decorations and refreshments while still making the wreaths in the fresh air. We were delighted to welcome so many people this year - thank you all for coming!
Our Autumn Foraging Walk - September 20th 2015 - took place in beautiful sunshine.
We learned lots and thoroughly enjoyed the foraging and the company. Probably our most popular walk ever with between 50 and 60 walkers of all ages joining in to find out about the fruits of the season - and how good they can be for you! Thanks to everyone who joined in and special thanks to those who helped set up and put away the gazebo and demonstrated the apple press. The juice was delicious!
Recipes for Rosehip Syrup, Bramble Jelly and Sloe Gin are HERE.
We learned lots and thoroughly enjoyed the foraging and the company. Probably our most popular walk ever with between 50 and 60 walkers of all ages joining in to find out about the fruits of the season - and how good they can be for you! Thanks to everyone who joined in and special thanks to those who helped set up and put away the gazebo and demonstrated the apple press. The juice was delicious!
Recipes for Rosehip Syrup, Bramble Jelly and Sloe Gin are HERE.
Kirste 5 Memorial Race - July 26th 2015
Well it rained and they ran - and they ran and it rained some more. But it was a great morning - we all enjoyed it, especially our younger members! Well done to all the runners, a wonderful tribute to Kirste. Here are some photos.
The Friends of Cherry Orchard Park are very pleased to be able to support this event.
Well it rained and they ran - and they ran and it rained some more. But it was a great morning - we all enjoyed it, especially our younger members! Well done to all the runners, a wonderful tribute to Kirste. Here are some photos.
The Friends of Cherry Orchard Park are very pleased to be able to support this event.
Sutton Hall Old Tyme Farming and Craft Fayre - June 7th 2015
A glorious early summer day set the scene and The Friends team arrived early to put up the gazebo and set out our information, leaflets and maps as well as cards and bags to sell and the essential makings for a cuppa.
The event was very successful and from our very advantageous view point we could see everything that happened in the show ring and meet all the visitors as they entered the site. We were busy all day and a stream of visitors stopped to find out about the park. We are still surprised to find that so many people don't know where it is! Several queries raised will be taken to the next committee meeting and in that way we hope to let RDC know that the park is indeed valued and what visitors to the park have to say.
We would like to thank Pat Wall of Rochford Vintage Tractor and Engine Group for inviting us to take part in the event. We had a great day!
A glorious early summer day set the scene and The Friends team arrived early to put up the gazebo and set out our information, leaflets and maps as well as cards and bags to sell and the essential makings for a cuppa.
The event was very successful and from our very advantageous view point we could see everything that happened in the show ring and meet all the visitors as they entered the site. We were busy all day and a stream of visitors stopped to find out about the park. We are still surprised to find that so many people don't know where it is! Several queries raised will be taken to the next committee meeting and in that way we hope to let RDC know that the park is indeed valued and what visitors to the park have to say.
We would like to thank Pat Wall of Rochford Vintage Tractor and Engine Group for inviting us to take part in the event. We had a great day!
SPRING WALK, April 26th 2015.
Despite the gloomy weather forecast, an enthusiastic group of Friends met in the car park for the Spring Walk. Luckily the weather remained dry until the last fifteen or twenty minutes, by which time we were very nearly back to the car park. A great walk, extremely informative. Thank you Richard Bond for telling us so much about the park and a history of the landscape going back tens of thousands of years to the last ice age and before. We were fascinated to learn of the saxon and even iron age ditches that can still be seen in this landscape even today. History on our doorsteps. Richard is a mine of information and perhaps it was not surprising that on the way back, as lunch time edged nearer, he tempted us to taste some of the wild plants growing alongside the path. Interesting!
Thank you everyone for coming along, thank you Richard for making the walk so interesting and thanks to the weather for managing not to rain until the very end.
Despite the gloomy weather forecast, an enthusiastic group of Friends met in the car park for the Spring Walk. Luckily the weather remained dry until the last fifteen or twenty minutes, by which time we were very nearly back to the car park. A great walk, extremely informative. Thank you Richard Bond for telling us so much about the park and a history of the landscape going back tens of thousands of years to the last ice age and before. We were fascinated to learn of the saxon and even iron age ditches that can still be seen in this landscape even today. History on our doorsteps. Richard is a mine of information and perhaps it was not surprising that on the way back, as lunch time edged nearer, he tempted us to taste some of the wild plants growing alongside the path. Interesting!
Thank you everyone for coming along, thank you Richard for making the walk so interesting and thanks to the weather for managing not to rain until the very end.
The view from the ridge, looking down to the park.
Litter Picking
Thank you to all those who helped with picking up litter in the park on Friday 20th March 2015. We cleared a very large area of the eastern end of the park. Thanks very much to Jade from RDC who provided cakes and anti-bac hand wipes! One question in all our minds at the end of the morning - why do people go to the trouble of picking up after their dog, using a plastic poo bag, tying it in a neat knot... and then throwing it over the nearest fence or into the nearest bush? It's not heavy. There are plenty of poo bins, three by the car park! It's one of life's mysteries.
New Year's Day Walk
HAPPY NEW YEAR! We walked from Edward's Hall Car Park across the park, up the fields and into Hockley Woods, then on to the Bull for refreshment. It was lovely! We had a great time, the New Year is off to a good start!
HAPPY NEW YEAR! We walked from Edward's Hall Car Park across the park, up the fields and into Hockley Woods, then on to the Bull for refreshment. It was lovely! We had a great time, the New Year is off to a good start!
Christmas Wreaths
A beautiful bright, sunny December day - how lucky we were. Friends met in the park to make their Christmas Wreaths. Very many thanks to Richard Bond, RDC Open Spaces Supervisor who helped in every way and expertly showed us how to make the wreaths from rings of hazel wood, holly, ivy and other greenery he collected from the park for us. The mulled wine was also very much appreciated! We now have beautiful, personal Christmas wreaths with a link to the park that mean much more than a commercial decoration
Commemorative Trees Planted
As part of the WW1 Centenary the Southend branch of the Western Front Association bid for young trees from the Woodland Trust. Their bid was successful and they have generously donated 420 trees to the park. Almost the same number as those local men who gave their lives in the battles.
On 23rd November 2014 the first young trees, just slender whips, were planted along the boundary of the Wildflower Meadow to form the beginning of an outline of the Western Front. The Association look forward to being able to mark areas of the planting with commemorative plaques to show such areas as Ypres, Verdun and the Somme.
Despite the dreadful weather the planting was well attended. The Chairman of Rochford District Council, June Lumley and Councillors Keith Gordon, Ian Ward, Gillian Lucas-Gill and the Mayor of Southend, Chris Walker, one of our Founder members, all braved the continuous rain, together with Open Spaces Manager Marcus Hotten and members of the Woodland Team. Friends of Cherry Orchard Park were pleased to be invited and members of the Western Front Association gave the occasion its dignified and thoughtful moments. As we stood in the cold rain for a minute's silence it was impossible not to think of those men who, enduring far worse conditions, gave their lives.
The Friends plan to donate a bench to be placed near the planting.
On 23rd November 2014 the first young trees, just slender whips, were planted along the boundary of the Wildflower Meadow to form the beginning of an outline of the Western Front. The Association look forward to being able to mark areas of the planting with commemorative plaques to show such areas as Ypres, Verdun and the Somme.
Despite the dreadful weather the planting was well attended. The Chairman of Rochford District Council, June Lumley and Councillors Keith Gordon, Ian Ward, Gillian Lucas-Gill and the Mayor of Southend, Chris Walker, one of our Founder members, all braved the continuous rain, together with Open Spaces Manager Marcus Hotten and members of the Woodland Team. Friends of Cherry Orchard Park were pleased to be invited and members of the Western Front Association gave the occasion its dignified and thoughtful moments. As we stood in the cold rain for a minute's silence it was impossible not to think of those men who, enduring far worse conditions, gave their lives.
The Friends plan to donate a bench to be placed near the planting.
November 11th 2014, Remembrance Day. We are very pleased to be able to publish this poem and article by RDC Open Spaces Supervisor Richard Bond.
The Skylark
This year we find ourselves a century on from the first Great War and for me the Skylarks song is both the sound of summer and one of remembrance. During the First World War this plucky little bird remained on the battle field. In soldiers letters home from the front, they describe how, in the brief rest from shelling and gun fire the little Lark would ascend, his song bringing a moment of tranquillity to both sides of the Trench. Sadly this little bird is in decline; between 1972 and 1996 saw the loss of 75% of the UK breeding population. Changes to farming practices have seen a lack of suitable nesting habitat, allowing the birds only a small chance of raising a successful brood of chicks. Some farms are now creating suitable habitats by leaving unseeded areas of 5-10 m around the centre of arable fields. Preferring short vegetation and areas of grasses in which it can forage for food the Skylark finds refuge in the quieter areas of our country parks. Many of the districts open spaces provide this habitat and enable the Birds to have a better chance of successful breeding. Male birds can climb as high as 100m above the fields, singing initially to attract a mate, then after to defend his territory. The song will last for a few minutes but later in the season this can exceed 20 minutes! Being a ground nesting bird both male and female will sing to attract attention away from the nest, running along the ground first before taking flight singing defiantly when predators approach. A good mimic, the Skylark will often include within its own song the calls of other birds that share the local area. Three to six eggs are laid in June a second or third brood may be started later in the year. The eggs are coloured yellow/white with brownish/purple spots at the larger end. So when you’re out in summer, take a moment; lie back, look up, enjoy the Lark's sweet summer song and remember. |
Apple Day 2014
The sun shone and people enjoyed a fantastic day on 28th September 2014. Thank you to everybody who came along and enjoyed the day and to all those who gave their time and energy so generously to make sure it was a success. What's Apple Day for? There are details below the slide show and we will have raised almost £2000 towards achieving the Friends' aims.
Thank you to Ian Castleton for his beautiful photos of BDTS dogs and the owls.
Thank you also to Tim Copsey for the apple photo and photos of home made cakes.
Thank you to Ian Castleton for his beautiful photos of BDTS dogs and the owls.
Thank you also to Tim Copsey for the apple photo and photos of home made cakes.
The Kirste 5 Memorial Race
The race took place amid forecasts of heavy rain and high winds. It was certainly wet and windy but not as bad as expected and it didn't put the runners and walkers off at all. Those of us who met at the lake to cheer the runners on had a great time encouraging the runners, cheering and whistling as they came past. We also had the benefit of a dry place to shelter and tea and coffee!
The Summer Walk
Despite the rain we enjoyed a lovely walk through the park ably led by Richard Bond - a mine of information about the plants, trees, birds and animals in the park. As always we all learned something new. Unfortunately it wasn't a day for taking lots of photos for a competition, rain drops on the lens hardly ever improves the shot. However, we are happy to include as many photos of the park on the website as you would like to send.
We would like to produce another ‘Friends’ Calendar—a collection of the best photos taken in the park by Friends. However, costs are very high and it hasn’t been possible to find a supplier who can produce a calendar for us that we can sell for less than £7. How do you feel about that? Is it too expensive? Would you be prepared to pay more? The Country File Calendar is £10. Do you know where we could get a better deal? Please let us know what you think.
Dog Show in the Park
Sponsored by Kibblesmill, Ellie's Pet Emporium, Southend, in support of Acres Way Rehoming Kennels.
The sun shone, the dogs were extremely well behaved and everyone had a lovely day supporting this very good cause. Committee members took the 'Friends' trailer down to the park and were pleased to be able to give people information about the park and our group. Welcome to those who became new members on the day.
Sponsored by Kibblesmill, Ellie's Pet Emporium, Southend, in support of Acres Way Rehoming Kennels.
The sun shone, the dogs were extremely well behaved and everyone had a lovely day supporting this very good cause. Committee members took the 'Friends' trailer down to the park and were pleased to be able to give people information about the park and our group. Welcome to those who became new members on the day.
2014 Spring Walk
Sunday 27th April 2014.
We had a very enjoyable morning, walking from Edwards Hall Park, down into Cherry Orchard Park and through some of the plantations to the site of our tree and bench. A plaque was placed beside them and we learned about some of the wild-flowers that can be found in the park. Thanks to Colin Hutchinson for accompanying us this morning - he is a mine of information! Richard Bond, Woodlands Manager from Rochford District Council was also on hand to answer questions and give us a brief history lesson, racing through ten thousand years to the present day to describe the way in which the land has changed and the importance of maintaining the woodlands and balance of plants, animals, birds and insects through managed coppicing. We were very happy to see well behaved dogs on the walk with us and also some excellently well behaved children! It's great to see the next generation taking an interest in the park. They were particularly fascinated with Richard's experiment with a bluebell and an ant's nest! Thanks to everyone who joined us, we had a really good time.
We had a very enjoyable morning, walking from Edwards Hall Park, down into Cherry Orchard Park and through some of the plantations to the site of our tree and bench. A plaque was placed beside them and we learned about some of the wild-flowers that can be found in the park. Thanks to Colin Hutchinson for accompanying us this morning - he is a mine of information! Richard Bond, Woodlands Manager from Rochford District Council was also on hand to answer questions and give us a brief history lesson, racing through ten thousand years to the present day to describe the way in which the land has changed and the importance of maintaining the woodlands and balance of plants, animals, birds and insects through managed coppicing. We were very happy to see well behaved dogs on the walk with us and also some excellently well behaved children! It's great to see the next generation taking an interest in the park. They were particularly fascinated with Richard's experiment with a bluebell and an ant's nest! Thanks to everyone who joined us, we had a really good time.
New Year's Day 2014 - the brave walked!
We met up with less hardy/more sensible Friends at the Bull in Hockley and toasted in the New Year. Will we do it again? YES! Of course.
APPLE DAY
Thank you to everyone who helped make Apple Day such a great success this year. The rain held off, the sun came out and a fine time was enjoyed by all.
Here is the slide show of photos. It was great fun, hard work.... and we are already planning for next year!
Thank you to everyone who helped make Apple Day such a great success this year. The rain held off, the sun came out and a fine time was enjoyed by all.
Here is the slide show of photos. It was great fun, hard work.... and we are already planning for next year!
The Summer Walk
We had a very successful walk on 18th August, starting from the car park at Cherry Orchard Way, exploring some of the lesser known paths through the park and arriving at New England walk to hear about this ancient woodland and the way that coppicing allows trees to live longer. Thanks to Richard Bond, Woodlands Team and Open Spaces Supervisor, we increased our knowledge of the wildlife in the park and the history of the landscape as he pointed out coppiced trees up to 600 years old, different kinds of spiders webs, wildflowers and insects.
Over 40 people joined us and we are already looking forward to another walk in the Autumn.
We would like to thank Richard for making the walk so enjoyable.
We had a very successful walk on 18th August, starting from the car park at Cherry Orchard Way, exploring some of the lesser known paths through the park and arriving at New England walk to hear about this ancient woodland and the way that coppicing allows trees to live longer. Thanks to Richard Bond, Woodlands Team and Open Spaces Supervisor, we increased our knowledge of the wildlife in the park and the history of the landscape as he pointed out coppiced trees up to 600 years old, different kinds of spiders webs, wildflowers and insects.
Over 40 people joined us and we are already looking forward to another walk in the Autumn.
We would like to thank Richard for making the walk so enjoyable.
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The 2nd Kirste 5 Memorial Race took place on the 28th July 2013. The route took runners from Grove Wood Primary School in Rayleigh, through Grove Woods and New England Wood, up to the outskirts of Hockley Wood, down through The Scrubs, and back into Cherry Orchard Jubilee Park. Making a circuit of the Lake they then set off on the homeward trek, through the park, back through New England Wood, Grove Wood and back to the school. The race was organsied by Benfleet running club in memory of Kirste Bowman who bravely fought breast cancer and raised £50,000 pounds for cancer charities by running 23 marathons while fighting the the disease herself. She enjoyed training in the park and often ran round the lake. Sadly, Kirste died in 2012 and this race in her memory continues her good work, all money raised will go to Bosom Pals and MacmIllan Cancer Support. We were very pleased to be able to support this good cause.
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1st Hands on Session in the Park
Our first Volunteer session was a great success! The small team was punctual and very productive. The Team managed to clear all the required habitat in the Firing range hollow. This is a rare Habitat in the park and I have no doubt it is home to a number of solitary burrowing Bees and Wasps and other insects. It was a good opportunity for friends to catch up and work together to directly benefit the Park. This work is vital as it increases the diversity of species and the more species rich the Park is the possibilities of funding improve! We all had a great time and to top it off keen eyed Nick Cornish spotted a young Slow worm basking in the sunshine in the newly cleared area. |
Thank you for sending the photos Richard. It looks like a huge task. Great work everyone. Watch out for news of the next session in August. |
Olde Tyme Farming and Craft Fayre, 9th June 2013
Rochford Hundred Vintage Tractor and Engine Club invited the Friends to come along to their Olde Tyme Farming and Craft Fayre. Despite the rather cloudy day and cold wind hundreds of people came to admire the tractors, engines and many other displays. Thank you very much for inviting us, we made new friends and new members!
The Spring Walk on Sunday May 19th 2013
Over forty friends gathered at the car parks in Cherry Orchard Way and Grove Woods to begin two simultaneous walks meeting up at the stone bridge on the Byway near Flemings Farm. With an expert on hand at each end of the park we enjoyed a very informative morning.
Some of us were able to see the hibernacula built in a hidden away part of the park which will provide a safe home to lizards and snakes which have been displaced by building projects in other parts of the district. We were all captivated by the sight and the smell of the bluebells in Gusted Woods. Although very late this year they have certainly made up for lost time and we learned a lot about coppicing, the cutting down of mature trees to let light into woodland areas, and we could see how the bluebells have benefited from this.
For the first time we had a sunny walk, and most of us were peeling off layers of coats and jumpers. Glorious.
A very big thank you to Richard Bond and Colin Hutchinson for accompanying our walk and answering our questions once again.
Some of us were able to see the hibernacula built in a hidden away part of the park which will provide a safe home to lizards and snakes which have been displaced by building projects in other parts of the district. We were all captivated by the sight and the smell of the bluebells in Gusted Woods. Although very late this year they have certainly made up for lost time and we learned a lot about coppicing, the cutting down of mature trees to let light into woodland areas, and we could see how the bluebells have benefited from this.
For the first time we had a sunny walk, and most of us were peeling off layers of coats and jumpers. Glorious.
A very big thank you to Richard Bond and Colin Hutchinson for accompanying our walk and answering our questions once again.
We celebrated Apple Day to mark the official opening of the Traditional Orchard on Sunday 21st October 2012.
It rained, it poured, there were clouds above and mud underfoot - and we had a great day! Thank you to everyone who helped over recent weeks, setting up on the day and clearing up afterwards. Now, next year.......
Watch the slideshow, below, and if you have any photos to contribute to the Gallery contact us and let us know.
Watch the slideshow, below, and if you have any photos to contribute to the Gallery contact us and let us know.
Photos
Click on one of the photos below to enlarge the gallery.
Contact us if you would like copies of any of the photos in the slideshow or below.
Contact us if you would like copies of any of the photos in the slideshow or below.
More photos can be seen in the Gallery.
Litter Picking - a joint effort!
A sunny afternoon, plenty of plastic bags and litter pickers and many willing hands made for a successful afternoon's work. Thanks to all those who helped from Macdonalds, Rochford District Council, SITA Refuse & Recycling and Friends of Cherry Orchard Park. Litter was cleared from hedgerows, meadows, paths and round the lake.
The lake is a source of concern at present. Irresponsible anglers are leaving litter, broken equipment, bait etc around the lake and within the fenced area. There are very few ducklings on the lake this year. The swans have not returned to the lake, nor have the grebes. The egret has not been seen this year. The Friends of Cherry Orchard Park are determined to work with Rochford District Council to find a way to manage the lake more effectively. Your support is extremely valuable. Please send your comments regarding any problems at the lake by going to 'Contact Us' and leaving a message.
Not yet a 'Friend'? Go to the home page to find out about joining the Friends of Cherry Orchard Park - help us look after this beautifull open space and preserve the natural environment.
The lake is a source of concern at present. Irresponsible anglers are leaving litter, broken equipment, bait etc around the lake and within the fenced area. There are very few ducklings on the lake this year. The swans have not returned to the lake, nor have the grebes. The egret has not been seen this year. The Friends of Cherry Orchard Park are determined to work with Rochford District Council to find a way to manage the lake more effectively. Your support is extremely valuable. Please send your comments regarding any problems at the lake by going to 'Contact Us' and leaving a message.
Not yet a 'Friend'? Go to the home page to find out about joining the Friends of Cherry Orchard Park - help us look after this beautifull open space and preserve the natural environment.
Community Event - Help us preserve your parks and open spaces.
On March 10th representatives from Rochford District Council, The Dogs Trust, Neighbourhood Watch, The Fire Service, RAVS came together to promote awareness of the park and local area. The weather was kind and many local residents and Friends of Cherry Orchard Park called by to see what was happening. A number of dogs were tagged as were many bicycles. The local mounted police attended and rode through the park. Hawkwell Fire service were on hand to talk to adults and children about safety in the park. A very worthwhile afternoon - the face painting was fun too!
Walking the Dog
On a chilly morning in November Friends and representatives of Rochford District Council gathered at the car park off Cherry Orchard Way with lots of information to encourage responsible dog walking. Tea and biscuits were available and also the opportunity to talk to "Friends of Abandoned Dogs at Acresway" and to have your dog micro chipped. It was a succesful morning and all agreed that it would be useful to do it again - but next time the free 'poo bags' will be given out in the car park before the dogs reach the grass!
We saw many extremely well behaved dogs - as you can see from the photos below. How many of these lovely animals have you already met in the park?
We saw many extremely well behaved dogs - as you can see from the photos below. How many of these lovely animals have you already met in the park?
Lake Days
During the summer Friends of Cherry Orchard Park together with representatives of Rochford District Council held two very enjoyable 'Lake Days'. The purposes to the Lake Days was to give information to people using the park with particular reference to fishing in the lake. Many people joined us to chat and find out more about the park and the use of the lake. Whilst most of the fishermen who use the lake do so in a responsible way, the few who do not cause considerable concern. Rochford District Council have produced a lake information leaflet which can be accessed here.
Spring Walk
We all enjoyed a great walk on March 21st 2011, from Hockley Woods, down through The Scrubs to the lake.
Wild Woods Day
Friends of Cherry Orchard were at Hockley Woods on Saturday 4th June, 2011 for Wild Woods Day.
Child Protection
Parents/carers of children shown in the video gave permission for the photographs to be taken. In the interests of Child Protection no names are shown.