2015 – 2016

Amenities & Leisure Resources 01424 451066 ‘Parks & Gardens’ Events Programme 2015/2016 General Information This events programme will help you make the most of ’ and Bexhill on Sea’s parks and countryside, learn more about its wildlife and contribute to its protection and preservation. Clothing: Please come prepared with strong, comfortable If you want to comment on the programme or make suggestions for improvement, footwear and waterproofs, especially on the all-day events. please call the Ranger Team on 01424 451066. Remember that some of the events on the beach are rough terrain and that footpaths can be steep and muddy in places.

Meet the Team ...... 4 'greendog walkers':a4 decal 12/3/10 14:40 Page 1 Walking conditions: Use this as a guide on the accessibility Combe Valley Countryside Park . . . .5 of each event. Alexandra Park ...... 6 Easy walking conditions: Relatively fl at. March ...... 10 Moderate walking conditions: This may involve some April ...... 13 Key to Symbol gentle hill walking and steps. May ...... 16 More challenging conditions: It may include walking June ...... 19 some steep inclines, involving slippery surfaces and steps. July ...... 22 Wheelchair or buggy access August ...... 25 c Weather: Whatever the weather, an event leader will be at the September ...... 28 No dogs meeting point and will then decide whether to proceed or not. October ...... 30 November ...... 32 Booking essential Dogs: Welcome (except where indicated ) if under control December ...... 34 and kept on a lead. l i We’ve Signed o u n c c r k i

k Bring a torch January 2015 ...... 35 l ® f a

e s the Green Dog Walkers Pledge. c i

e r v Public Transport: In most cases buses and trains run regularly February 2015 ...... 36 s Have You? g h b o u r d to all the meeting points throughout the day. Information on n e i n d a e t o r p a

c routes and times can be sought from Hastings Information Programme Contributors ...... 37 t Bring binoculars u n i o n s i t a c Centre on or direct from Travel Line South East u n i 01424 451111 m o m Community Noticeboard ...... 39 c b y g n e d i on 0871 200 2233 or at www.travellinesoutheast.org.uk d e s Nature Reserves and Bring sketchpad and pencil Rail travel information can be obtained on 0845 748 4950. Green Spaces map ...... 40 Children: Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied Bring a camera by an adult. www.combevalleycountrysidepark.com Great for families Charges: Most events are free - check individual listings for details. www.hastings.gov.uk/countrypark Conservation Tasks: These vary but for all of them you should Bring a packed lunch wear suitable footwear and clothing, always bring waterproofs Visit the Hastings Rangers photo gallery at SUSSEX in case the weather changes. If staying all day, it’s advisable to WILDLIFE TRUST bring a packed lunch and drink. www.fl ickr.com/photos/hastingsrangers Conservation work task (old clothes essential)

Wildhastings is an initiative set up by Hastings Borough Council to promote the Nature Reserves that exist in the Borough and Large Print and Audio versions to provide information about the wildlife they contain. Toilet facilities available Disclaimer: Hastings Borough Council and are available on request. Council accept no responsibility for events led by other Produced by Hastings Borough Council and compiled by the organisations or groups. Information correct at time of Hastings Ranger team and Sussex Wildlife Trust - February 2015 Call 01424 451066 Donations welcome Photographs by Bob Mazzer, Hastings Rangers and event organisers. printing but may be subject to change.

2 3 Proposed visitor centre: views Meet the Team

ALEX JULIE Proposals subject to planning and funding Position: Country Parks Position: Combe Valley Ranger and Hastings Ranger Project Update 2015 Best part of the job: Best part of the job: There are two exciting initiatives in progress this Project Information The opportunity of working The fresh air year at Combe Valley Countryside Park. with the community Worst part of the job: For more information about the Combe Valley Countryside Park visit: Worst part of the job: Enforcement! Julie Alex New visitor hub (pictured above) www.combevalleycountrysidepark.com Dog fouling To provide a focus for information, activities and events at Combe Valley, a new visitor hub is For more information about wildlife in the area visit: www.wildhastings.org.uk or CHRIS NICK planned this year to be located off Freshfi elds Road. This is a really exciting project for the www.sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk, contact Position: Estate Ranger Position: Hastings Ranger Countryside Park and the hub will be built the Combe Valley Ranger on 01424 451066 Best part of the job: Best part of the job: with recycled shipping containers to be as or email [email protected] Watching habitat develop Conservation work sustainable as possible. Worst part of the job: Worst part of the job: The hub will provide refreshment facilities, The mud! Not enough hours in toilets and incorporate a ranger’s offi ce and a The Friends of the day! fl exible meeting space for groups using the park. Chris Nick Combe Valley Park Community Interest Company (CIC) The Friends of Combe Valley (FoCV) is a A CIC is a company which is set up and run voluntary group formed by organisations and BOB GUY for the benefi t of the community. Its board is individuals committed to proactively working Position: Estate Ranger Position: Hastings Ranger comprised of individuals who have a personal together to care, protect and promote the Combe Valley Countryside Park. Best part of the job: Best part of the job: interest in ensuring that Combe Valley will be Our aim is to work in partnerships to develop Being outside Liaising with the public developed and managed to provide facilities and activities to the benefi t of the local community. the park for health and wellbeing, educational : : Worst part of the job Worst part of the job It is expected that the CIC for Combe Valley opportunities and improved access for all; Dog mess and litter Picking up all the litter! will be established by April this year, and with enriching the area of people and wildlife. For more information please visit our website Bob Guy advice from experts, will agree a development plan for the park to provide an attractive, www.friendsofcombevalley.co.uk accessible and recreational space, which is rich To join the Friends of Combe Valley please in plant and animal life. contact their membership secretary Willy For more information email Robin Jones, Wilson at [email protected] Volunteers [email protected] or telephone 01424 830376.

A special thank you... Hi, I’m Michael Blencowe, Sussex Wildlife Trust’s People & Wildlife Offi cer working To all volunteers and groups for their time and dedication. in the Combe Valley Countryside Park. I’ll be leading walks and events in 2015 looking at the amazing wildlife that lives here. The council greatly values the time and commitment volunteers put into our beautiful green spaces. We look forward to all we If you would like to fi nd out more about getting involved in the Combe Valley can achieve with you in the coming years. please give me a call on 07585901360 or email me at [email protected]

Michael Sussex Wildlife Trust

4 5 Alexandra Park The Hastings Country Alexandra Park is steeped in history; in 1850, This fi ne collection, which is nationally signifi cant, still surrounded by farmland, the reservoirs were means that Alexandra Park is probably one of the constructed to provide water for the ‘growing town best public parks in Britain in which to see trees. of Hastings’. A smallholding at the southern end of Its sheltered valley and temperate climate allow Park Nature Reserve the park was acquired by the Corporation in 1859 an enormous variety to thrive, many of which and landscaped as a garden for the residents of St have been able to grow to their full splendour. A picturesque nature reserve of national importance with stunning coastal views sited within Andrews Square, re-named St Andrews Gardens The Park currently includes nine champion trees the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. in 1864. In 1849 the railway line from Hastings to (the tallest or largest of their kind in Britain The nature reserve has 342 hectares (853 acres) of ancient gill woodland, heathland, grassland Ashford was constructed, effectively dissecting the and Ireland) and there are four more in the and farmland together with fi ve kilometres of dramatic sandstone cliffs and coastline. park from the Town Centre, a pedestrian underpass surrounding woodlands. Much of the area has been designated a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and a Site of was provided to maintain access to the gardens. By In 2000 the Heritage Lottery Fund helped restore Special Scientifi c Interest (SSSI) due to the unique wildlife and fossil rich soft rock cliff and slope. 1878 the Corporation had acquired much of the the park, thanks to a £3.4 million grant. There Help us protect this extraordinary nature reserve. When visiting, please follow the countryside land and now wanted to stimulate development; is now a determination from both the Council code, walk on designated footpaths and be careful of farm machinery and livestock. to achieve this it decided to landscape a much and the Friends to sustain and wherever possible larger park extending towards Silverhill and continue to develop and improve the park. For directions to this and the other nature reserves and green spaces, see the map on page 40 Buckshole Reservoir. The eminent landscape The tree collection is one of Hastings’ great assets (back cover). gardener Robert Marnock was commissioned and and the Friends of the Park will be championing much of what we see today was created. In 1882 its development and extension in years to come the new Alexandra Park was opened - of huge so that today’s and future generations will always signifi cance in the new landscape was the tree collection, much of which was planted by Marnock. have beautiful trees to enjoy. Due to ongoing landslides in Ecclesbourne Glen, some footpaths may be closed.

For directions to this and other nature reserves and green spaces, see the map on page 40 (back cover). 6 7 95 TH E Paths for walkers, RID Combe Valley Countryside Park G 95 cyclists and horse riders E W EST Meeting points Paths for walkers Crowhurst MP1 opposite Lidl in Sidley P Parking Area Station Car park in Ninfield Road, L Library MP11 MP2 Sidley Green, outside The New Inn Railway Station 304/305 B A MP3 MP1 Meeting Point Crowhurst T Pebsham Equestrian Centre, Pebsham Lane, T L E TN40 2RZ 99 Bus Route Number AY R W O S A Combe Valley N D MP4 EE Southern Water Waste Water Treatment Works, U Countryside Park Q North end of Freshfield Road (pedestrian access via public footpaths) P MP10 Hollington Countryside Code MP5 near the coastguard station E Galley Hill, Much of the land within the park U EN L is private land. Please stay on the V 20/21/2 A2 MP6 N Café on the beach, Glyne Gap, through paths that are marked by numbered A M pedestrian railway tunnel posts. Refer to leaflet ‘Nature on K your Doorstep’ available on the gs Link Road C astin A ill to H L Hastings Borough Council website: h B MP7 ex The green at the entrance to Hastings Garden B www.hastings.gov.uk/countrypark Centre St Leonards Detailed information about The SSSI

Countryside Code can be found at:

MP8 Viewing platform on Bulverhythe beach, by the

www.naturalengland.org.uk

railway footbridge off Bridge Way

Filsham D A MP9 Reedbeds O Bulverhythe playing fields car park, off Bexhill R MP13 95/98 E Road. Take the first turning on the left east of the A T D 26 U A entrance to Hastings Garden Centre 9 H O N S 23 R IN Y F E M IE MP2 22/23 L A LD R SH MP10 MP1 R A IL Crowhurst Recreation Ground OA F D H

MP4 West St Leonards

MP3 Playing Station 98 MP11 W Crowhurst Station R OO Fields P MP9 HILL RO D E ST W D BEX AD A259 A R O MP12 Pebsham P

O A 95 98/99 y 98 R D Wa

MP12

The Pavilion, half way up Freshfields Road on

N 98 P 98/99 Bridge AD O O the right hand side. Freshfields Road leads to HA MP7 R MP8 D S Bexhill L T OAD R L N S I I NG Hastings Recycling Centre (tip) TN38 8AY H O W X L FA A 99 O F Y 99 E

G B KIN AD DE LA WARR RO A259 MP13 Reedswood Road, By the gated entrance into the Glyne Gap h 98/99 MP6 field. Reedswood Road is on the left if travelling hythe beac

99 98 er north up Harley Shute Road just after the Combe P Bulv MP5 Haven Holiday park TN38 8BZ Map for illustration L Bexhill Station 98 purposes only. Not all meeting points shown are being used in this year’s programme 8 9 March Alexandra Park The Conservation Volunteers The Conservation Volunteers Conservation Task Day Combe Valley Health Walk - Sidley Church Wood Health Walk – Conservation Task Day Sunday 1st March, 9am - 1pm Every Monday except Bank Holidays Hollington, St. Leonards Sunday 1st March, 10am - 4pm Meeting at Shorneden reservoir north 11.00am – 12 noon Every Friday except Bank Holidays Meeting at Hastings Country Park Join the Alexandra Park Volunteer Team and Meeting Sidley Green, outside the 10.30 – 11.30am Nature Reserve Place Farm Yard Ranger Nick Hennessy in a practical conservation New Inn, Sidley, Bexhill Meeting at Church in the Wood car park, Join the Hastings Country Park Conservation task to improve the wildlife habitats and natural A lovely countryside walk of an hour. Friendly, just off Church Wood Drive, Hollington, group and help with a specifi c conservation task. areas of this award winning green space. Full safe and free. Please wear sensible shoes and St. Leonards No previous experience necessary. Wear suitable clothing and stout footwear. Bring a packed lunch training is given on the day and all tools are dress appropriately for the weather on the day. In A gentle walk in Church Wood. Friendly, safe if staying all day. supplied. This is a great way to get fi t, enjoy the winter the walk still goes ahead and routes will go and free. Please wear sensible shoes and dress great outdoors as well as meet likeminded people through the twittens and green spaces of Sidley appropriately for the weather on the day. An For more information phone 01424 451066 and have some fun. Just turn up wearing old and Bexhill Old Town. hour’s walk. Typical woodland walks with uneven ask for parks and gardens, leave your name and clothes and stout footwear. Work location might An hour’s walk. Typical country walk with some terrain, muddy paths, some slopes. Alternative phone number and a ranger will get back to you. change, to keep up to date look out for posters in hills, stiles, muddy paths and steps. In winter: routes in winter to avoid most of the mud. notice board or get added to the email list. some gentle inclines, steps, along pavements or For more information contact Paula Hubens For more information phone public footpaths in town. 07740899559/ [email protected] Nick Hennessy 07813750011 Pubs and Breweries of the For more information contact Paula Hubens Charge/Donation: free Old Town and Central St. Leonards or email [email protected] 07740899559/ [email protected] Accompanied children and well behaved dogs Friday 13th March, 7pm Charge/Donation: free on leads are welcome Venue: The History House, Courthouse Street, Accompanied children and well behaved dogs Old Town, Hastings HCP midweek on leads are welcome Conservation Task Day The Friends of HCPNR invite you to a talk by Cllr. The Conservation Volunteers John Hodges, pub historian, on the history of local Most Thursdays please ring to check, Alexandra Park Health Walk - ale houses and breweries. 9.30 to 4.00 The Conservation Volunteers Hastings Charge: £2, free to Friends of HCPNR Meeting at Hastings Country Park Nature Ore Health Walk - Hastings Every Wednesday except Bank Holidays For more information contact: Jan Armour on Reserve Place Farm Yard Every Saturday except Bank Holidays 12 noon – 1.00pm 01424 715556 or visit the Friends’ website: Join the Hastings Country Park Conservation weekends 10.30 – 11.30am www.friendsofhastingscountrypark.org group and help with a specifi c conservation task. Meeting at Alexandra Park, outside Meeting outside Ore Community Centre, No previous experience necessary. Wear suitable the café, Hastings Old London Road, Hastings clothing and stout footwear. Bring a packed lunch A gentle walk through the park. Friendly, safe if staying all day. A gentle walk through Ore village and parts and free. An hour’s walk. Mostly on well surfaced of Hastings Country Park. Friendly, safe and paths, but may also include uneven terrain, For more information phone 01424 451066 free. Please wear sensible shoes and dress inclines and steps. Please wear sensible shoes and ask for parks and gardens, leave your name and appropriately for the weather on the day. dress appropriately for the weather on the day. phone number and a ranger will get back to you. An hour’s walk. On pavements, some uneven For more information contact Paula Hubens terrain, public footpaths, some hills, some steps. 07740899559/ [email protected] For more information contact Paula Hubens Donation: free 07740899559/ [email protected] Accompanied children and well behaved Charge/Donation: free dogs on leads are welcome Accompanied children and dogs on leads

10 11 March April Friends of Pondswood Alexandra Park HCP midweek The Conservation Volunteers Conservation Task Day Wild Food Foraging Conservation Task Day Alexandra Park Health Walk - Saturday 28th March, 10.am -1.00pm Sunday 29th March. 2pm to 4pm Most Thursdays please ring to check, Hastings The meeting place is nearly opposite the end of Meeting at the Bandstand 9.30 to 4.00 Every Wednesday except Bank Holidays 12 noon – 1.00pm Fern Rd on Gillsmans Hill, by the bridge on the The art of foraging has become more popular Meeting at Hastings Country Park signed public footpath just within the wood. these days, there’s so much healthy and delicious Nature Reserve Place Farm Yard Meeting at Alexandra Park, outside Ponds wood is the new addition to the Councils food to be found in nature but what is safe? This See page 10 for more details. the café, Hastings holdings for woodlands and has recently received is a perfect introduction to foraging, a guided See page 11 for more details. Nature Reserve status. walk led by local expert Sarah Watson will look at The Conservation Volunteers This woodland has its own historic Friends Of what is and isn’t edible focusing on wild herbs, Combe Valley Health Walk - Sidley Friends of Church wood group who are very friendly / knowledgeable and fruits and seeds. Tasters will be available. Every Monday except Bank Holidays Conservation Task Day ready to accept any new volunteers. Sarah Watson, ‘Wild Feast’ foraging and wild 11.00am – 12 noon Saturday 4th April, 10.am -2.00pm Please wear suitable clothing and footwear for food cookery sessions, [email protected], Meeting Sidley Green, outside the woodland conditions www.facebook.com/wildfeast Meeting Church wood car park, New Inn, Sidley, Bexhill Church wood Lane, Hollington For further information contact, John For more information phone See page 10 for more details. 07802867147 Nick Hennessy 07813750011 The friends of church Wood meet monthly to or email [email protected] maintain Church Wood local nature reserve. Any The Conservation Volunteers one is welcome to join us for the day. Training will

Ore Health Walk - Hastings be given and hot drinks will be provided. Bring lunch if staying all day. Every Saturday except Bank Holidays Please wear suitable clothing and footwear for weekends 10.30 – 11.30am woodland conditions Meeting outside Ore Community Centre, For further information contact, Old London Road, Hastings Barry on 01424 853336 See page 10 for more details.

The Conservation Volunteers Bohemia Walled Garden Church Wood Health Walk – Association Task Day Hollington, St. Leonards Sunday 5 April 10 am until 1 pm Every Friday except Bank Holidays 10.30 – 11.30am Meeting at the Walled garden in Summerfields Woods Meeting at Church in the Wood car park, just off Church Wood Drive, Hollington, Conservation Tasks in and around the beautiful St. Leonards Bohemia Walled Garden, led by our local Ranger. Meet members of the garden, have fun and See page 11 for more details. spend time in this tranquil location right in the heart of urban Hastings. Please visit our website at bohemiawga.weebly. com or email the Garden at bohemiawga@ yahoo.co.uk for further details.

12 1313 April Conservation Task Day Alexandra Park Getting to know the Wild Flowers Alexandra Park Wild Flower Walk Sunday 5th April, 10am - 4pm Conservation Task Day of - Woodland Sunday 26th April. 2pm to 4pm Meeting at Hastings Country Park Sunday 12th April, 9am - 1pm Sussex Wildlife Trust Course Meeting at End of Vale road Nature Reserve Place Farm Yard Meeting at Shorneden reservoir north Sun 19th April 10:00am – 16:00pm Alexandra Park is renowned for its trees but See page 11 for more details. See page 10 for more details. Venue: The Old Milking Parlour Field Centre, there’s much more to this wonderful Park. Join the Hastings Country Park, Fairlight, East Sussex, Hastings Botany Group in a gentle stroll looking

Summer Migrant Birds Return TN35 5DT at the flowers to be found right under your feet. to Combe Valley We’re now able to offer our popular ‘Getting to A super event for anyone with an interest in Introducing the Lichens of Know the Wildflowers…’ courses in East Sussex! nature and wild flowers, perfect for beginners and Wednesday 15th April 2:00pm-4:30pm Hastings Country Park Come along and find out more about the diverse experts alike and it’s free! Saturday 11th April, 10.30am Meet in the car park opposite Hastings Woodland flowers to be found in the county park in For more information phone Garden Centre, Off Bexhill Road, St Leonards, Meet at The Milking Parlour, Place Farm, the first of 5 day courses covering all the habitats Nick Hennessy 07813750011 or email TN38 8AR. MP7 Barley Lane, off Fairlight Road for wildflowers in the County. Booking Essential [email protected] As our summer birds return to Sussex we’ll search The Friends of HCPNR invite you to a talk about Tutors: Ralph Hobbs & Sarah McKenzie for swallows, warblers, wagtails, cuckoos and these fascinating organisms by local naturalist, Cost Non-members: £40.00 other migrants as we walk around Combe Valley Keith Palmer, followed by a walk in the nature Country Park. Bring binoculars if you have them. Members: £27.50 Guided Walk around Filsham reserve to find some lichens in their natural habitat. This event is free but donations to Sussex Wildlife For more information and to book your place Reedbed Nature Reserve Charge: £2, free to Friends of HCPNR Trust appreciated. please go to the courses link on the Sussex Thursday 30th April 10:30am-12:30pm N.B. Booking essential for this event. wildlife Trust website: Contact on day – Michael Blencowe Meet at Bulverhythe Recreation Ground car www.sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/courses For booking and more information contact: 07585901360 park off the A259 in St Leonards MP9 Jill Howell on 01424 815256 or visit the Friends’ Or call 01273 497561 Sussex Wildlife Trust’s Alice Parfitt will show website: www.friendsofhastingscountrypark.org us around this reedbed – one of the largest in Sussex. We’ll look and listen out for birds and Shipwreck and Dinosaurs! Alexandra Park Tree Walk learn more about the other wildlife that lives here. Amsterdam Tour This event is free but donations to Sussex Wildlife Summerfield’s Wood Sunday 19th April. 2pm to 4pm Conservation Task Sunday April 19th Meet at 6:30pm Trust appreciated Meet at viewing platform at Bulverhythe Meeting at Harmers Lay-by Saturday 11th April, 10am - 1.30pm Contact on day – Michael Blencowe beach by the railway footbridge off Bridge Alexandra Park is one of the best parks in Britain 07585901360 Meeting at Summerfield’s Leisure Centre Way, TN38 8AP. MP8 for its tree collection. Join national tree expert Car Park, off Bohemia Road. Experienced guides from the Shipwreck Museum Dr Owen Johnson for a fascinating walk around Join the Rangers in helping improve this beautiful will lead visitors on a guided tour of the wreck this special green space looking at some of the Local Nature Reserve within easy walking distance of the Dutch merchant ship Amsterdam (1749), wonderful tree specimens. If you have an interest of Hastings town centre. This wood is situated the coastline, the 4000 year old prehistoric forest in trees this is a perfect event for you, always behind Summerfield’s Leisure Centre and is full of and the Cretaceous rocks from the age of the something new and interesting and it’s free! wildlife. Learn about habitat management, meet dinosaurs. Please wear appropriate footwear as For more information phone people, have fun and keep fit. Tools, refreshments the walk will involve walking on wet sand and Nick Hennessy 07813750011 and training are available but please wear bring warm clothing as the beach is exposed. or email [email protected] practical outdoor clothing and tough footwear. Booking essential. Tickets £6 adults, £2 children For more information phone 01424 451066 ask (includes a free copy of the Amsterdam for parks, leave your name and phone number guidebook) available at the Shipwreck Museum, and a ranger will get back to you. Rock-a-Nore Road, Hastings, TN34 3DW or telephone 01424 437452

14 15 May HCP midweek Conservation Task Day The Conservation Volunteers Alexandra Park Shipwreck and Dinosaurs! Most Thursdays please ring to check, Alexandra Park Health Walk - Hastings Conservation Task Day Amsterdam Tour 9.30 to 4.00 Every Wednesday except Bank Holidays Sunday 10th May, 9am - 1pm Tuesday 19th May Meet at 6.45pm Meeting at Hastings Country Park 12 noon – 1.00pm Meeting at Shornden reservoir north Meet at viewing platform at Bulverhythe Nature Reserve Place Farm Yard Meeting at Alexandra Park, outside See page 10 for more details. beach by the railway footbridge off Bridge See page 10 for more details. the café, Hastings Way, TN38 8AP. MP8 See page 11 for more details. See page 14 for more details. The Conservation Volunteers Spring Birds at Combe Valley Health Walk - Sidley Friends of Pondswood Combe Valley Conservation Wednesday 13th May 10:00am - 12:00 noon Every Monday except Bank Holidays Conservation Task Day Task Day (Green Gym) Meet at Bulverhythe Recreation Ground 11.00am – 12 noon Saturday 2nd May, 10.am -1.00pm Thursday 21st May 11am-2pm car park off the A259 in St Leonards Meeting Sidley Green, outside the Meeting Point to be advised on booking The meeting place is nearly opposite the end of MP9 New Inn, Sidley, Bexhill Fern Rd on Gillsmans Hill, by the bridge on the Join up with Green Gym and help with a specifi c Our migrant birds have returned from Africa. Join See page 10 for more details. signed public footpath just within the wood. conservation task in the Combe valley. No Sussex Wildlife Trust’s Alice Parfi tt for a guided previous experience necessary. Booking essential: See page 12 for more details. walk along the Combe Haven river and into our Call the Green Gym on 07549170578 The Conservation Volunteers Filsham Reedbed reserve looking for birds and Ore Health Walk - Hastings other wetland wildlife. Free event but places are For more information on Green Gym go to limited so booking is required. www2.btcv.org/display/greengym or email Every Saturday except Bank Holidays Conservation Task Day [email protected] weekends 10.30 – 11.30am Please call Michael on 07585901360 to book. Sunday 3rd May, 10am - 4pm Meeting outside Ore Community Centre, Meeting at Hastings Country Park Old London Road, Hastings Alexandra Park Nature Reserve Place Farm Yard See page 10 for more details. Wild Flower Walk See page 11 for more details. Spring Butterfl ies of Combe Valley Saturday 23rd May 2pm to 4pm Country Park The Conservation Volunteers Meeting at Bandstand Thursday 14th May 10:45am -12:30pm Church Wood Health Walk – Alexandra Park is renowned for its trees but Hollington, St. Leonards A Herbal Walk in Hastings Meet in the car park opposite Hastings there’s much more to this wonderful Park. Join the Country Park Garden Centre, Off Bexhill Road, St Leonards, Hastings Botany Group in a gentle stroll looking Every Friday except Bank Holidays TN38 8AR. MP7 at the fl owers to be found right under your feet. A 10.30 – 11.30am Saturday 9th May, 10.30am Join us as we walk around the country park super event for anyone with an interest in nature Meet at Hastings Country Park Visitor Centre, Meeting at Church in the Wood car park, looking for admirals, peacocks, blues, coppers, and wild fl owers, perfect for beginners and experts Lower Coastguard Lane, off Fairlight Road just off Church Wood Drive, Hollington, brimstones and other butterfl ies and wildlife. alike and it’s free! St. Leonards The Friends of HCPNR invite you to join them for Find out where to see them and how to identify For more information phone a walk in the Country Park Nature Reserve led by See page 11 for more details. them. This event is free but donations to Sussex Nick Hennessy 07813750011 or email local herbalist, Ben “Fairlight” Edwards, to look for Wildlife Trust appreciated. [email protected] plants used in various traditional herbal remedies and tisanes. Contact on day – Michael Blencowe 07585901360 For more information contact: Jan Armour on 01424 715556 or visit the Friends’ website: www.friendsofhastingscountrypark.org

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May June Birds of the Powdermill Wild Beach with HCP midweek Conservation Task Day The Conservation Volunteers Valley with The Friends Sussex Wildlife Trust Most Thursdays please ring to check, Alexandra Park Health Walk - of Combe Valley Thursday 28th May 2:00-4:00pm 9.30 to 4.00 Hastings Thursday 28th May 9:00am-12:00 noon Meet at Café on Bulverhythe Beach at Glyne Meeting at Hastings Country Park Nature Every Wednesday except Bank Holidays Meet in Crowhurst Recreation Ground Car Gap MP6 Reserve Place Farm Yard 12 noon – 1.00pm Park, Sandrock Hill, Crowhurst, Family event. Join the Sussex Wildlife Trust and See page 10 for more details. Meeting at Alexandra Park, outside TN33 9AR MP10 explore the beach with fun games and activities. the café, Hastings Join Cliff Dean of the Friends of Combe Valley We’ll be searching the strandline and making The Conservation Volunteers See page 11 for more details. for an enjoyable and informative walk through beach mobiles and kites. Suitable for families Combe Valley Health Walk - Sidley village, farm and woodland to freshwater marsh. with children aged 5-11 years. Children must be Friends of Pondswood Learn what birds use each habitat and why and accompanied by an adult. Every Monday except Bank Holidays 11.00am – 12 noon Conservation Task Day learn how to identify them by sight and sound. This event is free but donations on the day Walk of 2-3 miles mostly on level ground. May welcome and booking is essential. Meeting Sidley Green, outside the Saturday 6th June, 10.am -1.00pm be wet underfoot so walking boots are advised. New Inn, Sidley, Bexhill To book contact Michael on 07585901360 The meeting place is nearly opposite the Please bring a waterproof and binoculars if you See page 10 for more details. end of Fern Rd on Gillsmans Hill, by the have them. Possibility of a pub lunch at the end of bridge on the signed public footpath just the walk. Free event but donations to the Friends within the wood. of Combe Valley appreciated. The Conservation Volunteers Combe Valley Ore Health Walk - Hastings See page 12 for more details. No need to book, just turn up. Conservation day Every Saturday except Bank Holidays Contact on the day - Cliff Dean 07906560881. Saturday 30th May, 10am to 1.00pm weekends 10.30 – 11.30am Conservation Task Day Meeting at the Garden Centre top car park, Meeting outside Ore Community Centre, Sunday 7th June, 10am - 4pm Bexhill Road. Old London Road, Hastings Meeting at Hastings Country Park Nature Join the Combe Valley Conservation group and See page 10 for more details. Reserve Place Farm Yard help with a specifi c conservation task. This is a See page 11 for more details. great way to get fi t, enjoy the great outdoors as well as meet like minded people and have some The Conservation Volunteers fun. No previous experience necessary. Wear Church Wood Health Walk – Summerfi eld’s Wood suitable clothing and stout footwear Hollington, St. Leonards Conservation Task For more information phone 01424 451066 Every Friday except Bank Holidays Sunday 7th June, 10am - 1.30pm ask for parks and gardens, leave your name and 10.30 – 11.30am Meeting at Summerfi eld’s Leisure Centre phone number and a ranger will get back to you. Meeting at Church in the Wood car park, Car Park, off Bohemia Road. just off Church Wood Drive, Hollington, See page 14 for more details. St. Leonards See page 11 for more details. Combe Valley Conservation Task Day (Green Gym) Thursday 11th June 11am-2pm Meeting Point to be advised on booking See page 17 for more details.

18 19 June Combe Valley Walk with the Ranger Walk, Eat, Draw Bat Night in Combe Evening Birdwatch in the Saturday 13th June 10.30am till 12.00 pm Sunday 14th June, 10am for walk followed Valley Country Park Powdermill Valley with Meeting at the Top Garden centre car park by lunch and drawing from 12:30pm-3:30pm Friday 19th June 9:00pm-10:45pm The Friends of Combe Valley Bexhill Road Meet in Crowhurst Recreation Ground Car Meet in the car park outside Hastings Thursday 25th June 7pm-9:30pm Enjoy a stroll around the Combe valley with Park, Sandrock Hill, Crowhurst, TN33 9AR. Garden Centre, Off Bexhill Road, St Leonards, Meet in Crowhurst Recreation Ground Car the ranger. MP10 TN38 8AR. MP7 Park, Sandrock Hill, Crowhurst, TN33 9AR. For more information call. 01424 451066 ask for The event starts with a walk in Combe Haven (2-3 As the sun sets we’ll take a stroll around the park MP10 parks and gardens, leave your name and phone miles, may be wet underfoot so walking boots looking and listening out for bats as they hunt Join Cliff Dean of the Friends of Combe Valley number and a ranger will get back to you. advised). Then lunch (soup and roll) at Crowhurst along the trees and hedges. The evening will start on an early evening walk looking for birds as they Village Hall followed by drawing using inspiration with a brief introduction to bats and then, armed prepare to go to roost while other birds are getting from the Haven. Charge made for lunch plus with bat detectors, we’ll trying and fi nd some of ready to start the night shift. Learn how to identify a contribution to drawing materials please (or these amazing nocturnal animals. them by sight and sound. Walk of 2-3 miles mostly bring your own). Suitable for adults and families, Photographing Nature This event is free but donations welcome and on level ground. May be wet underfoot so walking accompanied children only please. Dogs on leads in the Country Park booking is essential as places are limited. boots are advised. Please bring a waterproof and welcome on the walk but not in hall. Disabled Saturday 13th June, 10.30am To book contact Michael on 07585901360 binoculars if you have them. Possibility of a pub access and toilets available at Village Hall. visit at the end of the walk. Meet at The Milking Parlour, Place Farm, Cost: £5 plus contribution to drawing materials Barley Lane, off Fairlight Road No need to book, just turn up. (or bring your own materials). The Friends of HCPNR invite you to a talk by Contact on the day - Cliff Dean 07906560881. To book your place please email howleyplato@ Friends of Church wood local naturalist, Crystal Ray, on various aspects gmail.com or call 01424 830349 of natural history photography followed by a Conservation Task Day practical session in Hastings Country Park Nature See website for more details www.crowhursteye. Saturday 20th June, 10.am -2.00pm btck.co.uk Reserve. Whether you are a complete beginner or The meeting Church wood car park, Church a seasoned professional, bring along your camera wood Lane, Hollington and pick up some useful hints and tips! See page 13 for more details. Charge: £2, free to Friends of HCPNR Alexandra Park N.B. Booking essential for this event Conservation Task Day For booking and more information contact: Jill Sunday 14th June, 9am - 1pm Howell on 01424 815256 or visit the Friends’ Meeting at Shorneden reservoir north website: www.friendsofhastingscountrypark.org See page 10 for more details.

Shipwreck and Dinosaurs! Amsterdam Tour Wednesday 17th June Meet at 6.30pm Meet at viewing platform at Bulverhythe beach by the railway footbridge off Bridge Way, TN38 8AP. MP8 Experienced guides from the Shipwreck Museum See page 14 for more details.

20 21 July HCP midweek The Conservation Volunteers Combe Valley Conservation Summer Butterfl ies of Combe Valley Conservation Task Day Alexandra Park Health Walk - Task Day (Green Gym) Country Park Most Thursdays please ring to check, Hastings Thursday 9th July 11am-2pm Thursday 16th July 10:45am -12:30pm 9.30 to 4.00 Every Wednesday except Bank Holidays Meeting Point to be advised on booking Meet in the car park opposite Hastings 12 noon – 1.00pm Garden Centre, Off Bexhill Road, St Leonards, Meeting at Hastings Country Park See page 15 for more details. TN38 8AR. MP7 Nature Reserve Place Farm Yard Meeting at Alexandra Park, outside the café, Hastings With summer in full swing we’ll search for the See page 10 for more details. Combe Valley Conservation day See page 11 for more details. beautiful butterfl ies that are on the wing at this Saturday 11th July, 10am to 1.00pm time of year. Learn more about these incredible The Conservation Volunteers Meeting at the Garden Centre top car park, insects and how to identify them. This event Combe Valley Health Walk - Sidley Shipwreck and Dinosaurs! Bexhill Road. is free but donations to Sussex Wildlife Trust Amsterdam Tour appreciated. Every Monday except Bank Holidays See page 18 for more details. 11.00am – 12 noon Saturday 4th July Meet at 7:30pm Contact on day – Michael Blencowe 07585901360 Meeting Sidley Green, outside the Meet at viewing platform at Bulverhythe Meet the Country Parks Ranger New Inn, Sidley, Bexhill beach by the railway footbridge off Bridge Way, TN38 8AP. Saturday 11th July, 10.30am See page 10 for more details. MP8 See page 14 for more details. Meet at The Milking Parlour, Place Farm, Barley Lane, off Fairlight Road Friends of Church wood The Conservation Volunteers Conservation Task Day Conservation Task Day The Friends of HCPNR invite you to meet Country Ore Health Walk - Hastings Parks Ranger, Julie Apps, for an informal chat Saturday 18th July, 10.am -2.00pm Sunday 5th July, 10am - 4pm Every Saturday except Bank Holidays about the management of Hastings Country The meeting Church wood car park, weekends 10.30 – 11.30am Meeting at Hastings Country Park Park Nature Reserve and a short walk around the Church wood Lane, Hollington Nature Reserve Place Farm Yard Nature Reserve to look at work in progress. Meeting outside Ore Community Centre, See page 11 for more details. See page 13 for more details. Old London Road, Hastings Charge: £2, free to Friends of HCPNR See page 10 for more details. For more information contact: Jan Armour on Alexandra Park Herb Walk A Walk in the Combe Valley with 01424 715556 or visit the Friends’ website: the Friends of Combe Valley Sunday 19th July. 2pm to 4pm The Conservation Volunteers Church www.friendsofhastingscountrypark.org Wednesday July 8th 10:00-12:30am Meeting at End of Vale road Wood Health Walk – Hollington, Meet in the car park outside Hastings Plants have wonderful healing properties as well St. Leonards as looking pretty. Join Ben Fairlight-Edwards, local Garden Centre, Off Bexhill Road, St Leonards, Alexandra Park Conservation Task Day Every Friday except Bank Holidays TN38 8AR. MP7 herbalist, in identifying how common plants can Sunday 12th July, 9am - 1pm benefi t us. A fantastic guided walk for beginners 10.30 – 11.30am Join the Friends of Combe Valley for a gentle Meeting at Shornden reservoir north and experts and always good fun. Meeting at Church in the Wood car park, summer stroll around the footpaths of the park. For more information phone just off Church Wood Drive, Hollington, We’ll explore the Combe Valley and learn more See page 10 for more details. Nick Hennessy 07813750011 or email St. Leonards about its wildlife and history. Everybody welcome. Free event but donations to the Friends of Combe [email protected] See page 11 for more details. Valley appreciated. Contact on the day: Michael 07585901360

22 23 July August Wildlife Walk from Crowhurst to Moth Night in Combe Valley HCP midweek The Conservation Volunteers Powdermill Woods with Hastings Friday 24th July 8:30pm-late Conservation Task Day Alexandra Park Health Walk - Natural History Society Meet in the car park outside Hastings Most Thursdays please ring to check, Hastings Thursday 23rd July 2015 10:00am Garden Centre, Off Bexhill Road, St Leonards, 9.30 to 4.00 Every Wednesday except Bank Holidays Meet in Crowhurst Recreation Ground Car TN38 8AR. MP7 Meeting at Hastings Country Park Nature 12 noon – 1.00pm Park, Sandrock Hill, Crowhurst, TN33 9AR. Learn all about the incredible species of moth Reserve Place Farm Yard Meeting at Alexandra Park, outside the café, MP10 that fl y around the park each evening at this See page 10 for more details. Hastings public event run by the Sussex Moth Group, A 5 mile circular walk from Crowhurst looking for See page 11 for more details. wildlife at two nature reserves; and Hastings Branch. We’ll be fi ring up the bright moth lights and seeing what we can attract. Get The Conservation Volunteers Powdermill Wood. We’ll stop for a picnic break Combe Valley Health Walk - Sidley Conservation Task Day (please bring packed lunch) and fi nish at The ready for a fascinating encounter with a tiger, an Plough Inn in Crowhurst. Everyone welcome but elephant or maybe a giant hawk-moth! Every Monday except Bank Holidays Sunday 2nd August, 10am - 4pm places are limited so please call to book. Please bring warm clothes and a torch. Suitable 11.00am – 12 noon Meeting at Hastings Country Park Nature Free event but donations to the society for adults and children 12 and over. Free event Meeting Sidley Green, outside the New Inn, Reserve Place Farm Yard appreciated. but donations to the moth group welcome. Sidley, Bexhill See page 11 for more details. Booking required Contact on the day: 07879186276 See page 10 for more details. Wild Beach with Sussex Wildlife Trust Contact Michael Blencowe 07585901360 The Conservation Volunteers Wednesday 5th August 10:30am-12:30pm Ore Health Walk - Hastings Meet at Café on Bulverhythe Beach Every Saturday except Bank Holidays weekends at Glyne Gap. MP6 10.30 – 11.30am Family event. Join the Sussex Wildlife Trust and to Meeting outside Ore explore the beach with fun games and activities. See page 10 for more details. We’ll be searching the strandline and making beach mobiles and kites. Suitable for families with children aged 5-11 years. Children must be The Conservation Volunteers accompanied by an adult. Church Wood Health Walk – This event is free but donations on the day Hollington, St. Leonards welcome and booking is essential. Every Friday except Bank Holidays To book contact Michael on 07585901360 10.30 – 11.30am Meeting at Church in the Wood car park, just off Church Wood Drive, Hollington, St. Leonards See page 11 for more details.

24 24 25 August Moth Night at Filsham Reedbed Wildlife Walk through the An Exploration of the East Hill Saturday 8th August 8:00pm-late Combe Valley with Hastings Saturday 15th August, 10.30am Meet at the gate into Filsham Reedbed off Natural History Society Meet at the top of the East Hill lift. Reedswood Road, Hastings, TN38 8DW Thursday 13th August 10:00am The Friends of HCPNR invite you to join them for (off Harleyshute Road) MP13 Meeting in Crowhurst Recreation Ground a walk on the East Hill in the company of various The Sussex Moth Group, Hastings Branch will be Car Park, Sandrock Hill, Crowhurst, TN33 9AR. experts from within the ranks of the Friends who turning on their powerful moth lights and will MP10 will be exploring both the history and the natural give us another chance to explore the nocturnal A 5 mile circular walk from Crowhurst looking for history of this scenic area. world of the Combe Valley. Join us and learn more wildlife in the reedbeds, marshes and woodlands Charge: £2, free to Friends of HCPNR about some of our most beautiful and colourful of the Combe Valley. We’ll stop for a picnic break For more information contact: Jill Howell on insects. Will we fi nd the rare Reed Dagger? (please bring packed lunch) and fi nish at The 01424 815256 or visit the Friends website: Please bring warm clothes and a torch. Suitable Plough Inn in Crowhurst. Everyone welcome but www.friendsofhastingscountrypark.org for adults and children 12 and over. Free event places are limited so please call to book. Free but donations to the moth group welcome. event but donations to the society appreciated. Contact on the day: 07879186276 Booking required Contact Michael Blencowe 07585901360 Combe Valley Conservation Task Day (Green Gym) Thursday 20th August 11am-2pm Summerfi eld’s Wood Conservation Task Friends of Church wood Meeting Point to be advised on booking Saturday 8thAugust, 10am - 1.30pm Conservation Task Day See page 17 for more details. Meeting at Summerfi eld’s Leisure Centre Saturday 15th August, 10.am -2.00pm Car Park, off Bohemia Road. The meeting Church wood car park, Church A Walk in the Combe Valley with the Friends of Combe Valley See page 14 for more details. wood Lane, Hollington See page 13 for more details. Wednesday August 26th 10:00am-12:30am Alexandra Park Meet in the car park outside Hastings Garden Conservation Task Day Centre, Off Bexhill Road, St Leonards, TN38 8AR. MP7 Sunday 9th August, 9am - 1pm See page 22 for more details. Meeting at Shornden reservoir north See page 10 for more details. Shipwreck and Dinosaurs! Amsterdam Tour Shipwreck Museum Monday 31st August Meet at 7:00pm Meet at viewing platform at Bulverhythe beach by the railway footbridge off Bridge Way, TN38 8AP. MP8 See page 14 for more details.

26 27 September HCP midweek Conservation Task Day The Conservation Volunteers Looking at Trees in Ponds Wood Wild Food Foraging Most Thursdays please ring to check, Alexandra Park Health Walk - Hastings Country Park Saturday 26th September 10.00am 9.30 to 4.00 Hastings Saturday 12th September, 10.30am Meeting at the public footpath entrance Meeting at Hastings Country Park Nature Every Wednesday except Bank Holidays Meet at Hastings Country Park Visitor Centre, opposite Gillsmans Park Road Reserve Place Farm Yard 12 noon – 1.00pm Lower Coastguard Lane, off Fairlight Road Wild Food Foraging – The art of foraging has See page 10 for more details. Meeting at Alexandra Park, outside the café, The Friends of HCPNR invite you to join them for a become more popular these days, there’s so Hastings walk in the country park led by national tree expert, much healthy and delicious food to be found The Conservation Volunteers Combe in nature but what is safe? This is a perfect See page 11 for more details. Dr Owen Johnson, who will be looking at some of Valley Health Walk - Sidley the wonderful variety of trees to be found here. introduction to foraging, a guided walk led by local expert Sarah Watson will look at what is Every Monday except Bank Holidays Combe Valley Conservation Task Day Charge: £2, free to Friends of HCPNR 11.00am – 12 noon and isn’t edible focusing on wild herbs, fruits and (Green Gym) For more information contact: Jill Howell on seeds. Tasters will be available. Meeting Sidley Green, outside the New Inn, 01424 815256 or visit the Friends’ website: Thursday 3rd September 11am-2pm Sarah Watson, ‘Wild Feast’ foraging and wild Sidley, Bexhill www.friendsofhastingscountrypark.org Meeting Point to be advised on booking food cookery sessions, [email protected], See page 10 for more details. www.facebook.com/wildfeast See page 17 for more details. The Conservation Volunteers Ore Friends of Pondswood Bohemia Walled Garden Health Walk - Hastings Conservation Task Day Conservation Task Day Association Task Day Every Saturday except Bank Holidays Sunday 6th September, Saturday 12 September 10 am until 1 pm Sunday 27 September 10 am until 1 pm weekends 10.30 – 11.30am 10am - 4pm See page 11 for more details. Meeting at the Walled garden in Meeting outside Ore Community Centre, Meeting at Hastings Country Park Nature Summerfi elds Woods Old London Road, Hastings Reserve Place Farm Yard See page 11 for more details. Friends of Church wood See page 13 for more details See page 10 for more details. Conservation Task Day The Conservation Volunteers Church Wood Wild Food Foraging Saturday 19th September, 10.am -2.00pm Alexandra Park Ranger Walk Sunday 27th September. Church Wood Health Walk – Sunday 6th September10.00 am The meeting Church wood car park, Church wood Lane, Hollington 2pm to 4pm Hollington, St. Leonards Meeting in the Church in the Wood Car Park Meeting at Queens Road Roundabout entrance Every Friday except Bank Holidays Wild Food Foraging – The art of foraging has See page 13 for more details Join park Ranger Nick Hennessy for a guided tour 10.30 – 11.30am become more popular these days, there’s so of Lower Alexandra Park looking at the history of Meeting at Church in the Wood car park, much healthy and delicious food to be found Combe Valley Walk with the Ranger in nature but what is safe? This is a perfect this multi award winning historically important just off Church Wood Drive, Hollington, Saturday 19th September green space. Interesting facts, strange goings-on St. Leonards introduction to foraging, a guided walk led by 10.30am till 12.00 pm local expert Sarah Watson will look at what is and Park Rangers view of Alexandra Park, this walk See page 11 for more details. and isn’t edible focusing on wild herbs, fruits and Meeting at the Top Garden centre car park will be fun, informative and is free. seeds. Tasters will be available. Bexhill Road For more information phone Sarah Watson, ‘Wild Feast’ foraging and wild See page 19 for more details Nick Hennessy 07813750011 or email food cookery sessions, [email protected], [email protected] www.facebook.com/wildfeast Alexandra Park Conservation Task Day Sunday 20th September, 9am - 1pm Meeting at Shornden reservoir north See page 10 for more details

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October HCP midweek The Conservation Volunteers Autumn Migration Watch Illustrated Talk: Conservation Task Day Alexandra Park Health Walk - Saturday 10th October, 8am A Sussex Wildlife Safari Most Thursdays please ring to check, Hastings Meet at Hastings Country Park Visitor Centre, Wednesday 11th November. Doors 7:00pm 9.30 to 4.00 Every Wednesday except Bank Holidays Lower Coastguard Lane, off Fairlight Road (Talks starts 7:30pm) Meeting at Hastings Country Park Nature 12 noon – 1.00pm The Friends of HCPNR invite you to join local John Taplin Centre, 3, Upper Maze Hill, Reserve Place Farm Yard Meeting at Alexandra Park, outside the café, ornithologist, Andrew Grace, for a gentle walk St Leonards on Sea, TN38 0LQ through the Country Park Nature Reserve to Hastings Fasten your seatbelts as Michael Blencowe of See page 10 for more details observe the movements of various migrating birds Sussex Wildlife Trust takes us for a (virtual) tour of See page 11 for more details from different vantage points in this scenic area. the nature reserves of Sussex looking for some of The Conservation Volunteers Charge: £2, free to Friends of HCPNR our county’s most beautiful (and bizarre) wildlife. Combe Valley Health Walk - Sidley Conservation Task Day For more information contact: Jill Howell on We’ll encounter vicious beetles, bizarre plants, Every Monday except Bank Holidays Sunday 4th October, 10am - 4pm 01424 815256 or visit the Friends’ website: thousands of birds and maybe a wild boar along 11.00am – 12 noon Meeting at Hastings Country Park Nature www.friendsofhastingscountrypark.org the way. Michael will also focus on some of the Meeting Sidley Green, outside the New Inn, Reserve Place Farm Yard nature reserves found around Hastings. Sidley, Bexhill Entrance fee: £2. See page 11 for more details See page 10 for more details Friends of Pondswood Event organised by the Summerfield’s Wood Hastings Natural History Society. Conservation Task Day More details at www.hastingsnaturalhistory.org The Conservation Volunteers Conservation Task Saturday 10th October, 10.am -1.00pm Ore Health Walk - Hastings Sunday 4th October, 10am - 1.30pm See page 12 for more details Every Saturday except Bank Holidays Friends of Church wood Meeting at Summerfield’s Leisure Centre Car Conservation Task Day weekends 10.30 – 11.30am Park, off Bohemia Road. Alexandra Park Meeting outside Ore Community Centre, Saturday 17th October, 10.am -2.00pm See page 14 for more details Conservation Task Day Old London Road, Hastings The meeting Church wood car park, Sunday 11th October, 9am - 1pm Church wood Lane, Hollington See page 10 for more details Combe Valley Conservation Meeting at Shornden reservoir north See page 13 for more details Task Day (Green Gym) See page 10 for more details The Conservation Volunteers Thursday 8th October 11am-2pm Church Wood Health Walk – Alexandra Park Tree Walk Meeting Point to be advised on booking Hollington, St. Leonards Sunday 25th October. 2pm to 4pm Every Friday except Bank Holidays See page 17 for more details Meeting at Harmers Lay-by 10.30 – 11.30am Alexandra Park is one of the best parks in Britain Meeting at Church in the Wood car park, for its tree collection. Join national tree expert just off Church Wood Drive, Hollington, Dr Owen Johnson for a fascinating walk around St. Leonards this special green space looking at some of the wonderful tree specimens. If you have an interest See page 11 for more details in trees this is a perfect event for you, always something new and interesting and it’s free! For more information phone Nick Hennessy 07813750011 or email nhennessey@hastings. gov.uk

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November HCP midweek The Conservation A Naturalist in the Country Park Friends of Pondswood Conservation Task Day Volunteers Alexandra Park Friday 13th November, 7pm Conservation Task Day Most Thursdays please ring to check, Health Walk - Hastings Venue: The History House, Courthouse Street, Saturday 14th November, 10.am -1.00pm 9.30 to 4.00 Every Wednesday except Bank Holidays Old Town, Hastings The meeting place is nearly opposite the end of Meeting at Hastings Country Park 12 noon – 1.00pm The Friends of HCPNR invite you to an illustrated Fern Rd on Gillsmans Hill, by the bridge on the Nature Reserve Place Farm Yard Meeting at Alexandra Park, outside talk by local naturalist, Alan Parker, on the profusion signed public footpath just within the wood. of animals and plants to be found in Hastings See page 10 for more details the café, Hastings See page 12 for more details Country Park Nature Reserve through the seasons. See page 11 for more details The Conservation Volunteers Charge: £2, free to Friends of HCPNR Friends of Church wood Combe Valley Health Walk - Sidley Conservation Task Day For more information contact: Jill Howell on Conservation Task Day 01424 815256 or visit the Friends’ website: Every Monday except Bank Holidays Sunday 1st November, 10am - 4pm Saturday 21st November, 10.am -2.00pm www.friendsofhastingscountrypark.org 11.00am – 12 noon Meeting at Hastings Country Park Nature The meeting Church wood car park, Meeting Sidley Green, outside the Reserve Place Farm Yard Church wood Lane, Hollington New Inn, Sidley, Bexhill See page 11 for more details See page 13 for more details See page 10 for more details Alexandra Park The Conservation Volunteers Conservation Task Day Ore Health Walk - Hastings Sunday 8th November, 9am - 1pm Every Saturday except Bank Holidays Meeting at Shornden reservoir north weekends 10.30 – 11.30am See page 10 for more details Meeting outside Ore Community Centre, Old London Road, Hastings Illustrated Talk: See page 10 for more details A Sussex Wildlife Safari The Conservation Volunteers Wednesday 11th November. Doors 7:00pm (Talks starts 7:30pm) Church Wood Health Walk – Hollington, St. Leonards John Taplin Centre, 3, Upper Maze Hill, St Leonards on Sea, TN38 0LQ Every Friday except Bank Holidays Fasten your seatbelts as Michael Blencowe of 10.30 – 11.30am Sussex Wildlife Trust takes us for a (virtual) tour of Meeting at Church in the Wood car park, the nature reserves of Sussex looking for some of just off Church Wood Drive, Hollington, our county’s most beautiful (and bizarre) wildlife. St. Leonards We’ll encounter vicious beetles, bizarre plants, See page 11 for more details thousands of birds and maybe a wild boar along the way. Michael will also focus on some of the nature reserves found around Hastings. Entrance fee: £2. Event organised by the Hastings Natural History Society. More details at www.hastingsnaturalhistory.org

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December January 2016 HCP midweek Summerfield’s Wood HCP midweek The Conservation Conservation Task Day Conservation Task Conservation Task Day Volunteers Alexandra Park Most Thursdays please ring to check, Saturday 5th December, 10am - 1.30pm Most Thursdays please ring to check, Health Walk - Hastings 9.30 to 4.00 Meeting at Summerfield’s Leisure Centre 9.30 to 4.00 Every Wednesday except Bank Holidays Meeting at Hastings Country Park Car Park, off Bohemia Road. Meeting at Hastings Country Park 12 noon – 1.00pm Nature Reserve Place Farm Yard Nature Reserve Place Farm Yard Meeting at Alexandra Park, outside See page 14 for more details See page 10 for more details See page 10 for more details the café, Hastings Conservation Task Day See page 11 for more details The Conservation Volunteers Sunday 6th December, 10am - 4pm The Conservation Volunteers Combe Valley Health Walk - Sidley Combe Valley Health Walk - Sidley Conservation Task Day Every Monday except Bank Holidays See page 11 for more details Every Monday except Bank Holidays Sunday 3rd January, 10am - 4pm 11.00am – 12 noon 11.00am – 12 noon Meeting at Hastings Country Park Meeting Sidley Green, outside the Friends of Pondswood Meeting Sidley Green, outside the Nature Reserve Place Farm Yard New Inn, Sidley, Bexhill Conservation Task Day New Inn, Sidley, Bexhill See page 11 for more details See page 10 for more details Saturday 12thDecember, 10.am -1.00pm See page 10 for more details See page 12 for more details Alexandra Park The Conservation Volunteers The Conservation Volunteers Conservation Task Day Ore Health Walk - Hastings Alexandra Park Ore Health Walk - Hastings Sunday 10th January, 9am - 1pm Every Saturday except Bank Holidays Conservation Task Day Every Saturday except Bank Holidays Meeting at Shornden reservoir north weekends 10.30 – 11.30am Sunday 13th December, 9am - 1pm weekends 10.30 – 11.30am See page 10 for more details Meeting outside Ore Community Centre, Meeting outside Ore Community Centre, See page 10 for more details Old London Road, Hastings Old London Road, Hastings See page 10 for more details See page 10 for more details Friends of Church wood Conservation Task Day The Conservation Volunteers The Conservation Volunteers Saturday 19th December, 10.am -2.00pm Church Wood Health Walk – Church Wood Health Walk – Hollington, St. Leonards See page 13 for more details Hollington, St. Leonards Every Friday except Bank Holidays Every Friday except Bank Holidays 10.30 – 11.30am Natural Christmas Decorations 10.30 – 11.30am Meeting at Church in the Wood car park, just off Sunday 20th December, 2.00 to 3.30Meeting Meeting at Church in the Wood car park, Church Wood Drive, Hollington, St. Leonards at Hastings country park Nature Reserve. just off Church Wood Drive, Hollington, Place Farm Yard. St. Leonards See page 11 for more details Come and make Christmas decorations with See page 11 for more details natural materials provided by the Rangers at The Conservation Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve. Volunteers Alexandra Park For more information phone 01424 451066 Health Walk - Hastings ask for parks and gardens, leave your name and Every Wednesday 120 noon – 1.00pm phone number and a ranger will get back to you. See page 11 for more details

34 35 February 2016 Programme Contributors HCP midweek Conservation Task Day The Conservation Volunteers Hastings Borough Council and Rother District Council wish to acknowledge the Most Thursdays please ring to check, Alexandra Park Health Walk - following groups who have organised events listed in this programme. 9.30 to 4.00 Hastings Meeting at Hastings Country Park Every Wednesday except Bank Holidays Nature Reserve Place Farm Yard 12 noon – 1.00pm The Bohemia Walled Friends of St Leonards Gardens Garden Association See page 10 for more details Meeting at Alexandra Park, outside Recently renovated with the aid of a Heritage the café, Hastings This historic walled garden is in Summerfi elds Lottery Fund grant, the Gardens today offer a tranquil oasis in the Maze Hill area of St Leonards, See page 11 for more details Wood just off Bohemia Road in Hastings. It is The Conservation Volunteers run as a Community Garden and has plots to with views to the sea. Combe Valley Health Walk - Sidley rent as well as various educational, cultural and For more information contact Every Monday except Bank Holidays Conservation Task Day community events throughout the year. To fi nd Christine Francis on 01424 421207 11.00am – 12 noon Sunday 7th February, 10am - 4pm out what’s on at the Garden, go to bohmiawga. or Email [email protected] weebly.com or visit us on Wednesdays or Sundays Meeting Sidley Green, outside the New Inn, Meeting at Hastings Country Park between 10 am and 12 pm. Sidley, Bexhill Nature Reserve Place Farm Yard Friends of Hastings Country See page 10 for more details See page 11 for more details Park Nature Reserve TCV The Friends of Hastings Country Alexandra Park TCV is the UK’s largest practical Park Nature Reserve was originally The Conservation Volunteers conservation charity, helping to inspire founded by members of the Volunteer Rangers. Ore Health Walk - Hastings Conservation Task Day people and improve the environment. Our aim is to protect, promote and enhance the Sunday 14th February, 9am - 1pm Every Saturday except Bank Holidays Activities include NVQ training, short courses, natural environment of this area of outstanding weekends 10.30 – 11.30am Meeting at Shornden reservoir north Practical tasks, Health Walks, Green Gym and natural beauty and to encourage others to join us in this work so that the value of the Nature Meeting outside Ore Community Centre, See page 10 for more details community support and advice. Reserve and its wildfl ife is protected for future Old London Road, Hastings For more information contact 01424 446395. generations to enjoy. See page 10 for more details Friends of Alexandra Park More information about us can be found on: www.friendsofhastingscountrypark.org and on our The Conservation Volunteers A large and active group of Facebook page or email: [email protected] Church Wood Health Walk – residents and Park users hold Hollington, St. Leonards regular meetings to help maintain and enhance the Park and act as a consultation The Friends of Church and Robsack Every Friday except Bank Holidays group in partnership with Hastings Borough Wood Local Nature Reserve 10.30 – 11.30am Council. If you would like to know more about Established for many years this group of Meeting at Church in the Wood car park, the running of this multi award winning and volunteers manage and maintain this local nature just off Church Wood Drive, Hollington, nationally important park joining the Friends reserve in Hollington, together with Hastings St. Leonards of Alexandra Park is a great opportunity. The Borough Council. Friends also have a volunteer team who carry out See page 11 for more details The Friends meet on the second Saturday monthly conservation tasks lead by Park Ranger in the month to undertake a variety of tasks Nick Hennessy, if you would like to join in please from undergrowth clearance to putting in Contact email [email protected] steps and benches. hastings.gov.uk. For more information contact Barry on 01424853336 [email protected]

36 37 37 Community Noticeboard

Friends of Summerfi elds Wood Sussex Wildlife Trust Sussex Volunteering with the Clean Seas Please Wildlife Trust Local Nature Reserve (SWT) Sussex Wildlife Trust Clean Seas Please is a community campaign Summerfi elds Wood LNR is located at the back of SWT is the leading conservation organisation The Filsham Reedbed volunteers meet once a to increase awareness and encourage action Summerfi elds Leisure Centre of Bohemia Road. It covering East and West Sussex, supported by month on the 1st Saturday of the month at 10am regarding the sea bathing quality in Hastings and is a beautiful Local Nature Reserve with over seven more than 30,000 members to look after over at the Reedswood Road entrance to the reserve. Bexhill. The new sea bathing quality standards hectares of semi-natural woodland and streams 3,000 acres of downland, woodland, wetland For more information or to volunteer please call come into action in October 2015 and our aim is and a series of ponds. This fantastic bluebell wood and heath. Our work also includes environmental Anthony Brown, Volunteer Manager on 07933 to not only meet them, but to exceed them and is only a few minutes’ walk from the town centre. education, wildlife advice, working with 607926 or email [email protected] gain a blue fl ag. landowners, companies and local communities If you’d like to become a Friend of Tasks include scrub bashing during the winter Find us on Facebook (Clean Seas Please) and to conserve Sussex. For free Summerfi elds Wood or help out on months with path maintenance, bramble control Twitter (@cleanseasplease). Also check out conservation tasks, email the Rangers at Wildlife advice, call: 01273 494777. etc during the summer. our website: cleanseasplease.net and sign up [email protected] titled to our campaign. The Sussex Wildlife Trust Saturday Hit Squad ‘Summerfi elds Needs Me’. Contact details to be changed for the friends is often busy in the area too and need your Alternatively call 01424 451050 leave of Combe Valley help. Call Sarah Quantrill 07824 151935 or TCV: Inspiring People, your details and a Ranger will contact you. “For more information please visit our website email [email protected] if you Improving Places www.friendsofcombevalley.co.uk would like to get involved. Make the most out of your local beauty spots Hastings Country Park Nature To join the Friends of Combe Valley please Reserve Conservation Group with TCV! You can join our Healthy Walks that run contact their membership secretary Willy The Friends of Combe Valley Park all year round in the Hastings and Rother area. The Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve Wilson [email protected] The Friends of Combe Valley (FoCV) is a new Or get stuck in with our Midweek Conservation conservation group has been set up to help with or telephone 01424 830376.” voluntary group formed by organisations and Group and Green Gym, and do some practical hands on practical work within the park. individuals committed to proactively working environmental conservation to improve the local For more information contact together to care for, protect and promote the area. Activities are free. Julie Apps, Country Park Ranger on Combe Valley Countryside Park. If you fancy a career in practical conservation, 01424 812767. Our aim is to work in partnerships to develop why not enroll on one of our NVQ courses? the park for health and wellbeing, educational For more info go to St Helens Park Preservation Society opportunities and improved access for all; www.tcv.org.uk/southeast or call our East The Society is a local registered charity managed enriching the area for people and wildlife. Sussex offi ce on 01424 444675 and maintained by unpaid volunteers. It is For more information or to join the Friends of dedicated to the management of over 150 acres Combe Valley call the Combe Valley Ranger Active Hastings/Rother/Women of natural ancient woodland and meadows, most on 01424-451066 of which is a local nature reserve. The area is Combe Valley Countryside Park is one of many open to the community to enjoy and many free opportunities across Hastings and Rother to get fundraising events are held. Hastings Country Park Nature out, get active, enjoy the area and meet up with Reserve Conservation Group other people. For information on further physical Information can be obtained from our activity opportunities, both outdoors and indoors: website www.sthelenspark.co.uk The Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve or from Mrs Pat Collins 01424 712940. conservation group has been set up to help with Call 01424 451051 If you would like to book the BBQ site for hands on practical work within the park. Visit www.activehastings.org.uk Your own event, please contact Mrs Joyce For more information contact Julie Apps, Friend Active Hastings on Facebook Foster 01424 432730. Country Park Ranger on 01424 812767 Visit www.activerother.org.uk

38 39 Hastings and Bexhill on Sea Nature Reserves & Green Spaces A2100 A21 Marline Valley LNR & SSSI

Church Wood & St Helens Park LNR Robsack Wood A259 LNR Hollington Valley Wishingtree SNCI Reservoir Old Roar Gill LNR Filsham Reedbed LNR & Combe Haven SSSI Broomgrove SNCI

Alexandra Park

Summerfi elds Combe Valley Ponds Wood SNCI Wood LNR Hastings Country Park Countryside Park Nature Reserve (Hastings Cliffs SAC & SSSI) Glyne Gap Marsh SNCI Castle Hill SNCI and White Rock Gardens the West Hill St Leonards Gardens SNCI SNCI South Saxons A259 Wetlands SNCI SAC Special Area of Conservation Bulverhythe Beach SSSI Site of Special Scientifi c Interest & Cliff SNCI LNR Local Nature Reserve SNCI Site of Nature Conservation Importance