Heath Walks 2015 – 2016

Walks are normally held on the first Sunday of every month except January. Most start from Burgh House, New End Square. London NW3 1LT – 10 minutes walk from Hampstead Tube Station (for map see www.burghhouse.org.uk) NB: parking is extremely difficult locally, especially November 2015 Vol 46 No. 3 in spring and summer. West Heath car park (behind Jack Straw’s Castle) is more likely to have spaces than the East Heath car park. 6 December 2015 10:30am (meet at Burgh Starting times are either 2:30pm or 10:30am House) The history and topography of the (9:30 for birds), depending on season and Hampstead Heath ponds led by Marc subject matter. Hutchinson, Chairman of the Heath & Walks last approximately two hours. They do Hampstead Society and Chairman of the not necessarily follow made-up paths; you are Hampstead Heath Winter Swimming Club recommended to wear suitable footwear as 2016 (No walk in January) conditions may be rough or muddy. 7 February 10:30am (meet outside the Brew You will be invited to make a minimum House Café, Kenwood House) The Heath and donation of £4.00 per adult, to be collected at Kenwood: how they relate to each other led the beginning of each walk, to help support by Thomas Radice, H&HS Trustee and future development of the walks programme and to promote the Society's activities generally. member of the Heath Sub-Committee Children are always welcome so long as they 6 March 10:30am (meet in North End Way, are suitably shod, can walk reasonable on Hampstead side of Inverforth House) The distances and are accompanied by an adult Pergola, the Hill Garden and Golders Hill taking full responsibility for them. Park led by Peter Tausig, H&HS Trustee and member of the Heath Sub-Committee Please note starting times and meeting points 3 April 9:30am (meet at Burgh House) Birds Further information from walks organiser, of the Heath in spring, led by John Hunt, Thomas Radice, former Chairman of the Marylebone mobile: 07941 528 034 or Birdwatching Society and member of the email: [email protected] H&HS Heath Sub-Committee Details of future walks in 2016 will be available on the Society’s website www.heathandhampstead.org.uk from December 2015 onwards

Reproduction of “Work” unveiled at Burgh House & Hampstead Museum The Heath and Hampstead Society Contents Founded in 1897 Chair’s Notes postal address: PO BOX 38214, London NW3 1XD email: [email protected] website: www.heathandhampstead.org.uk by Marc Hutchinson Committees and Officers President Lord Hoffmann Heath Sub-Committee Patrons Page A lot has happened since our last Newsletter in May. Martin Humphery Chair John Beyer Lady Hopkins Latoya Austin Gerald Isaaman OBE Chair’s Notes ...... 1 Annual General Meeting decisions Simon Briscoe Sir Simon Jenkins Lynda Cook Bill Oddie Marc Hutchinson At our June Annual General Meeting, members Chair Marc Hutchinson Melissa Fairbanks Tom Oliver unanimously resolved to accept the trustees’ Planning Report ...... 5 Tony Ghilchik Sir John Tusa recommendation to increase, from 2016, all Michael Hammerson Representatives on outside Janis Hardiman David Castle subscriptions by reference to a baseline increase Vice-Chair Frank Harding bodies John Hunt of approximately £5 per member per year. The Town Report ...... 8 Natalie Lawrence City of London Heath last increase was nine years ago and the trustees Thomas Radice Management Committee, Frank Harding had recommended this increase principally to Vice-Chair David Castle Rupert Sheldrake Kenwood Landscape Forum: fund the Society for its anticipated campaigns to Peter Tausig John Beyer Heath Report ...... 10 Ron Vester protect the Heath from commercialisation and City of London Heath Vice-Chair John Beyer Hampstead Town from inappropriate Planning Sub-Committee Consultative Committee: John Beyer and Lynda Cook Chair David Castle Thomas Radice development. The new rates are [in £]: Jenny Alderman Beware the New Inclosure Movement ...... 15 City of London Ponds Project Secretary Nigel Steward Penny Davis Annual ...... 20 Stakeholder Group: Lynda Cook Kate Ashbrook David Evans Annual joint ...... 30 Mojgan Green Ponds Community Working Ancient Trees ...... 16 Senior annual ...... 15(Y) Treasurer Maureen Clark-Darby Vicki Harding Group: Marc Hutchinson, Gordon Maclean Lynda Cook (alternate) Helen Read Senior annual joint ...... 25(Y) Douglas Maxwell Keats House Consultative ...... Margaret Rodgers A View of the Heath ...... 21 Life 335 Membership Promotion Robert Linger Committee, Hampstead Conservation Area Advisory Life joint ...... 410 Town Sub-Committee Jeremy Simons Committee: Martin Humphery Life senior ...... 225 Chair Frank Harding Anousheh Barbezieux Heath Hands Executive Burgh House: A Renaissance Project ...... 24 Life senior joint ...... 300 Janine Griffis Committee: Peter Tausig Mark Francis “Senior” currently denotes 50 years of age and Avril Kleeman Legal adviser to the Society Vicki Harding Jessica Learmond-Criqui David Altaras Obituaries ...... 28 above; for the new rates, it will denote, for Jessica Learmond-Criqui Robert Linger new members only, 65 years of age and Richard Price Adviser on Hydrology Gordon Maclean Christopher Wade, David Sullivan and Ray Softly above. In other words, existing annual Juliette Sonabend Michael de Freitas BSc DSIR PhD members currently qualifying as “senior” will Douglas Maxwell Plaque Restoration FGS FRGS MIWEM Heath Walks continue to qualify as “senior”. Peter Noble Frank Harding Archivist Malcolm Holmes Thomas Radice Malcolm Holmes Christine Pullen Auditors Fisher Phillips, Peter Tausig Chartered Accountants Carol Siegel Front cover: “Work” by Ford Madox Brown was It was unveiled on 6 July 2015 in the Sullivan Garden, Juliette Sonabend Newsletter painted between 1852 and 1865 in The Mount, Burgh House, by Ray Walmsley (far left in photograph). Hampstead Card Editorial Committee Hampstead. The buildings in the painting can still Next to Ray (left to right) are Frank Harding, Chairman Avril Kleeman Marc Hutchinson, Nigel Steward, be recognised today. The reproduction on tiles of the Town Sub-Committee of the Society, Juliette John Weston, Anousheh Barbezieux shown in the photograph (published here by kind Sonabend, a member of that Sub-Committee who leads Website management Typeset by Andrew Morley permission of Polly Hancock and the Hampstead & on the Hampstead Plaque Scheme, Oliver Soskice, John Weston Original Design Sydney King John Weston Stephen Taylor Highgate Express) was funded by a generous legacy great-great-grandson of Ford Madox Brown, and Cllr. Printed by Hillary Press, Hendon for this purpose from the late John Philip Walmsley. Larraine Revah, the Mayor of Camden.

Reg. Charity No. 261782 1 Chair’s Notes (cont)

(Y) denotes that persons under 25 years of age years and, but for his tireless efforts as 6 of the Bill empowers the City to lease out We are hopeful that our views will prevail but will qualify for these same reduced rates as Chairman of the Athlone House Working Group buildings on the Heath for up to 21 years (at the policy of the Society is that, if we cannot senior members (the group comprising our Society, the present the legal limit is three years). While achieve the necessary protections in the Bill Highgate Society and the Highgate there may be a case for extending the before the Bill is submitted to Parliament, we May I ask those of you who pay by standing Conservation Area Advisory Committee), I three-year maximum in some instances, e.g. the shall oppose the Bill, as we have standing to order to give instructions to your bank now to doubt the Group would have achieved what it cafes, we believe that the need for an extension do, by way of a petition to Parliament. For this increase your annual payments accordingly. now has. Our thanks also go to Jeremy Wright, to 21 years has not been demonstrated. unwelcome task, we shall need your moral and Members also voted to re-elect the Society’s Gordon Maclean, Martin Humphery and David financial support. Clause 7 of the Bill allows the City to license officers, to re-elect Gordon Maclean and Tony Altaras (our counsel) who likewise have fought on any part of the Heath “events” such as Ghilchik as trustees, and to elect a new trustee, in the recent rounds of the campaign. The Newsletter ceremonies, celebrations, entertainment or Dr Vicki Harding, the Society’s Tree Officer and Mayor of Camden (pictured on our front cover) similar events, as well as conferences, We have sorely missed the services of Helen a long-serving member of the Planning is to hold a tea party for the campaigners. exhibitions and filming; and to seal off the Marcus, the recently retired editor of the Sub-Committee. Newsletter, but, while we continue to seek a Another fight with the City of London? relevant part of the Heath for that purpose. So replacement editor, an editorial committee has Athlone House – a victory what is there to stop the City erecting one or I wish I could report that we were not more marquees, three times the size of that produced what you are now reading with the I am delighted to broadcast the utter failure of anticipating any further dispute with the City, used by the Affordable Art Fair on East Heath help of typographer Andrew Morley (long-time the owner and intending developer of Athlone now that the Dams Project is less than a year Road, in the core of the Heath and staging a provider to the Society of pre-press support), House to appeal against, and to have set aside, away from its completion, but I have to alert large number of events there for most of the and proofreading by Frankie de Freitas (a the decision of the planning inspector given in members to a new private bill – the City of year ? There are presently three ostensible former trustee), to both of whom we are very June 2015, which upheld Camden Council’s London Corporation (Open Spaces) Bill – protections in the Bill: the events must be grateful. This edition is slightly longer than refusal to grant planning permission to which is due to be presented to Parliament by “temporary” (so, not permanent); the City must usual to enable the inclusion of tributes to demolish the House. In the High Court in late the City in November 2015. The Bill applies to have regard to the “character” of the open three key figures in the life of the Society who October, Mr Justice Dove dismissed the appeal most of the City’s open spaces and does many space affected; and the event must not cause recently passed away: see Obituaries. and refused leave to appeal to the Court of things, and confers many powers, which “material injury to the amenity” (including People Appeal. The Society had sought, but was should improve management of those open visual appearance) of the open space or denied, leave to be joined as an interested spaces including the Heath e.g. stronger “significant impairment” to the “public Honorary life member party. In the event this did not matter because powers of law enforcement, licensing of third enjoyment” of the open space. We consider The trustees have decided to appoint Ray the defence was very ably conducted by parties who exploit the Heath for commercial that these vague and essentially subjective Walmsley as an honorary life member of the counsel for the Secretary of State and for purposes, and clearer powers of land criteria are an unacceptable qualification upon Society in recognition of her support for the Camden Council. The judge, like the inspector, management and removal of dumped motor section 12 of the 1871 Hampstead Heath Act, plaque project described on our front cover. also alluded favourably to the enforceability of vehicles. To this extent the Bill is supported by which requires the Heath to be kept Trustees the so-called “section 106 agreement”, which the Society. “uninclosed and unbuilt on”: in other words, requires that the existing House be restored. I mentioned at the beginning of this piece the However, the second recital to the draft Bill the public must be free to walk all over the We look forward to the fresh legal proceedings newly elected or re-elected trustees on the presently states: “It is expedient to provide body of the Heath as an open space, with its now intended to be brought by Camden General Committee. Helen Marcus stood down as certain further powers of management in “natural aspect”. This is the primary charitable Council to enforce that agreement. a trustee and vice-president at the Annual General relation to those open spaces, with a view to object of our Society. The Society is presently Meeting, and the text of Martin Humphery’s full We owe a great debt to the many campaigners … more effectually promoting and securing the urging the City to re-draft clause 7 to restrict tribute to her from the Society is in the minutes of who, for 17 years now, have fought to preserve objects for which the open spaces are held, those events to the existing fringes of the the AGM on the Society’s website. She rendered Athlone House. Michael Hammerson of the and providing further opportunity to raise Heath where such events have typically been exceptional service to the Society over many Highgate Society has taken the lead in recent revenue to be applied to those objects.” Clause staged e.g. the fairgrounds and car parks. years for which we are very grateful.

2 3 Chair’s Notes (cont) Planning Report

by David Castle

Sub-Committee members We also say farewell to Tatyana Stefanova who This cartoon appeared Now, due to an The process of replenishment of our assisted the Society in the establishment of our in the September 2012 ill-considered Sub-Committees continues, and we welcome new membership and financial database: we Newsletter and we ‘Recommendation to on to the Planning Sub-Committee new thank her for her hard work on and dedication will repeat it as our Approve’, a planning members Mojgan Green and Andrew Dutton to the project, and wish her well for the future. ‘logo’ until Camden approval has been Parish, on to the Heath Sub-Committee new restrict the size of overturned by the members Latoya Austin, Natalie Lawrence Christmas party lorries and the use of High Court – at a and Ron Vester, and on to the Town This year’s Christmas party will be held at Burgh diesel fuel for the very large financial Sub-Committee new member Anousheh House on Wednesday 9 December. We want constant construction cost to Camden. Barbezieux who replaces John Zieger traffic in our narrow members to see for themselves what a valuable The full details (the latter nevertheless having kindly roads and lanes. and unique Hampstead building the House is, can be found in a agreed to continue to advise the Society on and to hold the party there seemed one way of This may take a while very forthright letter licensing issues). ∫ enabling this. We hope to see you there. but I understand that by Councillor the Royal Borough of “Smash the next lamp on the left, flatten the pavement by Claire-Louise Leyland Kensington and the pub, nudge the sweet shop, scrape the Market Cross, published in the Chelsea have then just follow the skid marks to London… ” Camden New Journal Acknowledgement to Punch, 1979 Society notices Members’ email addresses – restricted lorry size in on 17 September 2015. some areas – so there is hope. Are you missing out? Together with other adverse comments, the Keeping you informed of the latest news In fact, Camden already have the power to Judge noted that Councillors had been Delivering the Newsletter and events. insist on a CMP (Construction Management “significantly misled”. Plan) which can be one of the required The Society is increasingly using email, We emphatically agree with the concluding by email ‘Conditions’ attached to a planning approval. to let members know of vital issues remarks in the letter which states that: “it is that crop up between Newsletters. The CMP can control the procedures, Would you prefer to receive your Newsletter not right that local businesses and people equipment, timing, etc that can be used whilst It is also an invaluable way to bring you should be let down by Camden Council in by email in the form of a Acrobat PDF file the building work takes place – this could other useful information, such as walks, this way. We need proper processes for so that you can read it on screen ? include lorry size, etc. talks and events that do not fit in gathering feedback from residents and CAACs with the Newsletter timetable. It is environmentally more friendly, saving When objecting to future planning applications (Conservation Area Advisory Committees). We paper, unnecessary waste and cost. If we do not have your email address we suggest that a CMP should be requested and need this feedback to be given proper weight you may be missing out on important that improvements to it are fought for before a by Camden in making recommendations”. With postage charges increasing enormously local and Society news and initiatives. planning decision is made. this is now becoming a major consideration. So, if you have not already done so, please Camden’s draft Local Plan Critical Comments about Camden’s Planning The occasional extra flyers could also be do send your email address to the Society at: We have made many suggestions for amending Department. sent via email, if wished. [email protected] and improving the draft Local Plan and now We, for a long time, have been critical of the await publication of the revised draft. PDFs of the Newsletter can be seen on Make sure that you include your name and street address so that we can identify you. over-frequent ‘Recommendation to Approve’ the website. If you would like to try this issued by Camden’s Planners to Councillors Grove Lodge, Admirals Walk please let us know at: This will also enable us to update our sitting on the Development Control Committee A slightly reduced application has now been Membership Records and simplify our before they discuss and decide the fate of a [email protected] communications with you. made with respect to this important listed planning application. building. It still includes a large basement

4 5 Planning Report (cont)

under the garden and the house plus alteration Trees and Biodiversity – Report by Vicki the very early stages of considering whether a above ground, and we have again sent in a Harding group of people with an interest in biodiversity Appeal for new strong objection to Camden. might appreciate meeting regularly to focus on Members of the Planning Sub-Committee the planning aspects of: Newsletter Editor Metropolitan Open Land continue to check on Notices of Intent to do tree work in our Conservation Areas, and the • Energy efficiency and energy reduction in At present the Newsletter is edited by We have just been notified that Camden Tree Officer keeps an eye on work to Street new developments and older buildings, a committee. have received a request that Metropolitan Trees in addition. We are keen that the including renovations or alterations Open Space (MOL) designation be removed development at Mount Anvil KCL, Kidderpore • Water efficiency We hope that among our many from some land in North End at 2–3 Heath members, existing and new, there may Avenue which is a Site of Importance for Nature • Flood risk Passage – in order to allow a planning Conservation should not be allowed to go be someone familiar with publishing • Use of sustainable materials and recycling in application for development. MOL designation ahead without contributing anything towards who might enjoy editing the Newsletter construction prevents development and is similar to Green biodiversity. Currently the plans involve felling and be willing to spare a few hours Belt designation many trees, removing bat habitat already • Renewable energy three times a year. This is a very worrying development as MOL decimated on the other side of Kidderpore • Biodiversity – including trees, habitats, green Marc Hutchinson would be very (and Conservation Area) policies are our main Avenue, and replacing these with more sterile corridors, etc – all of particular concern to protection from those developments that might formal gardens. Hampstead. grateful to receive a call from anyone who feels they would enjoy taking on spoil Hampstead. We are working with the The Planning Sub-Committee have also worked This would not be a formal committee but a local residents to defeat this loss of MOL and closely with both the Hampstead and way of involving more members who would this task for the Society. are considering making an application to Redington/Frognal Neighbourhood Forums in like to gain more experience in planning and Contact details on inside front cover. Camden to designate more gardens bordering investigating mapping the important trees in tree matters as well as biodiversity, and do this the Heath as Metropolitan Open Land. our area, with the idea of forming a tree local as a shared experience. We will be advertising list. We are at the stage of discussing a this to members once it is more developed, but King’s College Site, Kidderpore Avenue mapping system with Camden, though finding do contact Penny Davis and Vicki Harding if An application to redevelop this site as “market the right mapping tool for us is taking some you would like to be involved. ∫ housing” has been made. It includes a large time. We also plan in the future to map double basement car park, new housing on the basements, wells and conduits, borehole data, Don’t forget to use the large garden which is “Designated Open Space”, bat flight paths and other features of interest to and loss of trees. Once again a large amount of nature and biodiversity. Hampstead Card student, low rent, housing will be lost. Details If anyone would like to be involved in mapping can be found on Camden’s website, reference The current list of the trees in their area – veteran and historical no. 2015/3936/P where you can also send in businesses taking part in the scheme trees, trees adding particular amenity to a road comments and objections. can be found on the Society’s website, or area of rear gardens viewed by many and can be downloaded from there: Athlone House – the power of money neighbours, or just well-loved trees – please get in touch with Vicki Harding or Penny Davis. www.heathandhampstead.org.uk The long saga continues – at the time of writing, the Inspector’s decision to refuse the The Planning Sub-Committee have also noticed Benefits offered are granted at the proposed new “palace” (replacing the existing that a number of local people wish to be traders’ discretion. The Society is not house) is being challenged in the High Court at involved in projects related to trees and responsible for changes in terms or biodiversity – as well as basements! We are at enormous legal cost. availability of any discounts or offers.

6 7 Town Report by Frank Harding

In recent months the Town Sub-Committee of the Society has focussed its attention on a few Memories Thursday 3 December new projects which inevitably take some time to Jette Parker come to fruition. It has also brought some to Young Artists Recitals completion. These include: A new venture at We are thrilled that the Art Exhibition on Heath Street Keats Community Royal Opera House After a gap of some 30 years, the Society, in Library has organized a recital conjunction with the Hampstead School of Art at Rosslyn Hill Unitarian Chapel (HSoA), organised the open air art exhibition by tomorrow’s stars of the opera world. at the top of Heath Street. It was held on the Do you often think last Sunday in June and the second and third about the past? See website keatscommunitylibrary.org.uk Sundays in July. Unfortunately all three dates for details of the programme. coincided with poor weather resulting in Keats Community Library is starting Tickets £8 disappointing numbers of people attending and artist’s viewpoint. A suggestion is the Heath viewing the art on show. Nevertheless there a small circle where you can share Street picture “Work” by Ford Madox Brown”. was sufficient activity to provide confidence your memories and, if you like, \ that we can have a bigger and better show The manufacture, erection and unveiling of the write them down for family and friends. next year with, we hope, more support and reproduction of “Work” took place on 6 July. Tuesday 8 December more buyers, thus encouraging even more It is now permanently attached to the wall of Meetings in the Library Seasonal Quiz artists – local and others – to submit their the Sullivan Garden at Burgh House & Every 2nd Thursday of the month works to be hung. Hampstead Museum. Our hugely popular quiz night returns 4–6pm with general knowledge questions “Work” The reproduction and the associated plaque were unveiled by Ray Walmsley, the widow of John as well as literary ones. This will be an intimate group, so you can Readers may remember that in the last issue of Philip Walmsley, before the Mayor of Camden, Bring your own team the Newsletter I reported that the Society and several members of the Society. As was feel free to share stories about your family, or just come along, wished to record the fact that Ford Madox expressed at the unveiling ceremony, we are changes in your neighbourhood, your work join a table and Brown lived and worked in Hampstead with a or even your experience of major events. extremely grateful for this legacy and delighted make new friends. plaque, and we decided that we would with the work of Samantha Richardson, the artist Prizes and seasonal refreshments. reproduce his best known painting, “Work”, who produced the reproduction on tiles. Your personal story is interesting! which was finished in 1863. “Work” is set in Tickets £8 The Mount, Hampstead and, if, today, you were Old Hampstead Rediscovered V This group will be led by Nella Marcus to stand on the spot where he painted it, you The fifth in our series of exhibitions of \ would recognise the buildings in the painting. artworks held in Camden’s archives, this under Please let us know Shortly after taking that decision, we learned the title “Changing Scenes”, was held at Burgh if you would like to join. that the Society had been left a significant These events are organised in House over a period of some three months in legacy by John Philip Walmsley “for the support of the Library the summer. Knight Frank again generously purpose of commissioning a coloured Email: [email protected] sponsored the exhibition. Thought is now Tickets from the library or online at: reproduction of a Hampstead scene or by a being given to arranging a sixth such Hampstead artist to be erected on or near the Telephone: 020 7431 1266 wegottickets.com exhibition in 2016. ∫

8 9 Heath Report by Lynda Cook and John Beyer

Ponds Project Pond is near completion with a fenced-off grass Substantial areas of Pryor’s Field may be The Society has therefore queried the thinking spillway as above. The City of London and BAM excavated to obtain sufficient clay for the new and drafting behind the proposed legislation, in The temporary dam on the Model Boating Pond Nuttall responded to concerns expressed by dry dam on the Catchpit. If this is not sufficient, correspondence and through meetings with the has not been entirely successful. Several leaks members of the Ponds Project Stakeholder there are plans to obtain more clay from the Remembrancer (the City official responsible for became apparent after the lower third of the Group and the Community Working Group with Sports Field; however, rather than dig into (yet) the Bill) and other City staff. At the Society’s Pond was de-watered (or drained), the leaks regard to plans to build a new path diverting another field, several people have suggested suggestion, the City agreed to hold an were repaired and the Pond drained again. The walkers from desire lines and agreed to abandon using silt obtained when the Ponds are desilted. additional meeting of its Hampstead Heath second attempt revealed dramatic discoveries: a the idea. The roots of the trees on the causeway Consultative Committee in late September so bronze eagle and a rusting Ford Cortina, as well It is hoped that the work on the Bird Sanctuary have been protected and the overhanging that opinions on the Bill could be voiced. The as gigantic colourful crayfish (invasive species). Pond will not be disruptive beyond the branches on the causeway were not clipped Society has continued to engage with the City The pleasant weather and new, pungent smells temporary rerouting of the path along the back, thus preserving as far as possible the as the draft Bill has developed. and interesting views attracted many observers causeway which will be raised by not more sheltered and natural look of this Pond. who engaged in conversation with BAM Nuttall than 100 mm. A new 400 mm overflow pipe The Bill will first be agreed by the Court of and the City of London rangers and took selfies, The volume, disruption and extent of the work will be installed from this Pond and lead into Common Council in October before being videos and photos. Subsequent to the fish rescue on Hampstead No. 1 Pond has been more than the new island on the Model Boating Pond. brought to Parliament as a private Bill. There (removal of fish to the upper part of the Pond), expected and will not be complete until the end The old pipe from this Pond and the concrete will be an opportunity for members of the further problems with the pilings became of 2015. The new inlet pipe into the Pond is apron will be removed. public to give their views during the committee apparent: water pressure from the upper part of quite large and it will take 2 to 3 years before it stage of the Bill (probably in January/February). The Vale of Health and Viaduct Ponds are the Pond where there was no counter-balancing becomes obscured by vegetation. Work will The City expect the parliamentary process to tranquil again, but substantial and disruptive pressure beyond the pilings was causing the soon start on raising the dam by one metre on be completed in November 2016 with works are taking place on and around the Ponds dam to lean forward into the lower third, the lower part of this Pond. Work on Hampstead enactment in 2017. as noted above, and on the central parts of the making it likely that the structure would collapse No. 2 Pond was expected to start in October and Heath it is difficult to ignore the large excavators, and allow the water from the top part of the was likely to create similar disruption. Members lorries, vans, noisy generators, huge mounds of Pond to gush into and out of the Pond. The of the PPSG and CWG have urged the City of earth and significant dust. We lost the battle to engineers then installed nine new and longer London and BAM Nuttall to ensure that a path prevent this enormous and unnecessary project; pilings, each measuring up to 20 metres in for the swan family would be protected from however, the City of London and BAM Nuttall are depth. The silt at the bottom of the Pond turned intrusion since the parents and cygnets travel doing their utmost to minimise the harshness of out to be deeper than expected. When this work back and forth over the path twice daily. The the project and to restore the natural and wild is complete, the lower third of the Pond will be City has agreed to take all precautions to protect look of the Heath as quickly as possible. drained again and work will commence on the tree roots of the London plane trees on the Oak Processionary Moth (Thaumetopoea constructing the new dam. The engineers had path between the two Ponds. Open Spaces Bill allowed for an overrun on this Pond, and still processionea). Work began on the Stock Pond and the Ladies’ The City intends by the end of November to hope to finish work there in October 2016 when Fears that Oak Processionary Moth would Pond in early October; the tree stumps of the bring to Parliament the City of London (Open the whole project is due for completion. advance from Regents Park to the Heath were 15 oak trees on the Stock Pond will be dug up Spaces) Bill. The City has presented the Bill as realised when infestations were discovered in Work on the Viaduct Pond is complete and the to allow the spillway to be constructed. It now bringing a clearer legal framework to the 14 June after a jogger found he had unusual skin new grass spillway planted with wild flowers appears that the size of this spillway will be open spaces it controls, but the Society has rashes. Thirteen trees were identified as having remains fenced off until growth is secure. The significantly smaller than originally planned, concerns that the Bill might grant the City moths and were cleared of nests in July. The new culvert and outfall below the Pond will making the loss of the large number of mature increased powers (for example in revenue trees are mostly in the East Heath area. Nests on gradually be concealed by bramble, grass and and healthy trees seem even more poignant generation) which might be to the detriment of two trees were also identified at Kenwood and other vegetation. Work on the Vale of Health and unnecessary. the 1871 Hampstead Heath Act. removed by English Heritage.

10 11 Heath Report (cont)

tree by making it more vulnerable to other pests and diseases. The moth can be seen in July and August. The danger is mainly to humans and dogs. The long hairy spines on the caterpillars (whether still attached to the caterpillar or floating in the air) can cause a rash on humans and are Oak Processionary Moth dangerous to dogs since the irritant (thaumetopoeia) causes their tongues to swell up. Heath Rangers have been briefed to watch out for telltale signs. However the nests on the The Oak Processionary Moth is native to trunks and branches of the trees are not easy southern Europe, where there are natural checks to spot. The nests resemble silky cotton wool to its expansion. It is believed to have spread which is white at first but soon goes brown to through the trade in live plants. It has become match the bark. Trees in a 100 metre radius established in Germany and the Netherlands, of the affected trees and arrived in the UK have been checked. in 2005. It was There will be identified in southwest spraying of suspect and west London in trees next spring to 2006 and Bromley in prevent the spread of the south in 2012. If it the moth. Areas of is not controlled, the the Heath will have Oak Processionary to be fenced off Moth is likely to able while this is being An infestation on an oak tree to breed and survive done. In the meantime, during the winter, in England and Wales. Especially given that there will be further inspections in conjunction detection is difficult, borough councils in with the Forestry Commission. Caterpillars London need to assign sufficient resources to emerge in April from eggs which were laid the check for infestations and to control them. previous summer. The most effective treatment For further information on the moth, see: is to spray insecticide during the spring and forestry.gov.uk/opm. summer when the caterpillars are about. The Oak Processionary Moth is so named from the behaviour of the caterpillars in late spring and early summer: they proceed nose to tail along the ground and in the trees. The caterpillars feed almost exclusively on oak leaves. While a small number of caterpillars can be sustained by an oak without harm to the tree, a major infestation can destroy the A rash on humans

12 13 Heath Report (cont) Beware the New Inclosure Movement

by Kate Ashbrook, General Secretary of The Open Spaces Society. Members who were unable to attend the Society’s Annual General Meeting on 30 For health information, see: June will have missed the address by our guest speaker, Kate Ashbrook, who was www.nhs.uk/livewell/bites-and-stings Saving Trees In Hampstead invited to mark the 150th anniversary of the founding of The Open Spaces Society. If you suspect an infestation on an oak tree, a new initiative This is a brief summary of her address. send an email (if possible with a photo) to The Society, in a new initiative, is planning Kate warned that ‘our open spaces are as more than ever yet are under increasing threat. [email protected]; phone a specific campaign to preserve trees in threatened now as they were during the The Government has made it easier to build on the Heath staff on 020 7332 3322; or phone the Hampstead in circumstances where they are inclosure movement 200 years ago’. green spaces by making it harder to protect Forestry Commission on 0845 367 3787. under threat of felling by reason of them as village greens; the pressures of The Open Spaces Society and the Heath & technical misunderstanding (which is development are ever increasing; and the Weddings at the Hill Garden Hampstead Society, formed as the Commons widespread) about their causing subsidence severe cuts in public spending mean that local Preservation Society and the Heath Protection Wedding ceremonies at the Hill Garden, the and the current (and frequently prejudiced) authorities are seeking to sell or commercialise Society respectively, were founded at the end Pergola and the Belvedere are likely to increase protocols of buildings insurers. green spaces. following a successful pilot. There will have been of the inclosure movement, at a time when 18 weddings in 2015 – 6, with more expected in The Society possesses much knowhow on Victorian people were enjoying their open ‘It is essential that organisations like ours 2016–7. (The first ceremony was in July 2014.) this subject and, under the leadership of its spaces for informal recreation and when open remain vigilant and are prepared to champion The venues are used only for the ceremony itself, Tree Officer, needs assistance from one or spaces were being filched for development. our green spaces, which are of such immense followed by a toast. There is no catering at the two members who have an interest in it. The two societies shared many important value to people’s health and happiness. figures of the time, including Lord Eversley, events, partly to minimise disruption and also The initiative will not start until the new ‘The Open Spaces Society has campaigned for Octavia Hill and Robert Hunter. because the logistics of catering (even from year, but we wish to identify now members open spaces for 150 years, and intends to carry Golders Hill Café) have proved difficult. who might be prepared to help. One of the societies’ early victories was to save on, working alongside organisations such as the Hampstead Heath from being exploited for sand Heath & Hampstead Society, for another 150.’ ∫ Ceremonies can only be held on two Saturdays in If you would like to learn more about the and gravel, and for any month, and on weekdays. The period of hire initiative, please email us in the first instance: is two hours, during which time there are signs to building development. [email protected] tell the public what is happening. There have Kate said that she had apparently been few complaints; there was one walked over the Heath in about a parking problem, but more complaints glorious sunshine on her about parking had been expected given the way to the AGM, and limited amount of parking space available nearby. seen thousands of people enjoying its The Society is happy for events such as wedding magnificent, varied ceremonies to be held in areas associated with the features – from the cool built environment, whereas it would question any wooded avenues to the proposal to use other areas on the Heath. unparalleled views from Parliament Hill. She felt Sub-Committee developments immensely proud to be Our sincerest thanks to Jeremy Wright for all his part of the organisation work for the Society over many years and best which had saved it for wishes for his life in Lincoln. the nation. Credit: alexandersonphotography.co.uk for the National Trust Joining the Sub-Committee are Latoya Austin, Kate continued: ‘Now The Devil’s Punchbowl and Hindhead Common, Surrey, bought by the Open Natalie Lawrence and Ron Vester. ∫ Lime Avenue, Hampstead Heath open spaces are needed Spaces Society for the National Trust in 1906

14 15 Ancient Trees by Dr Helen Read MCIEEM, CEnv., Conservation Officer, Burnham Beeches NNR & Stoke Common (City of London open spaces) The following is an edited version of the 2015 Springett Lecture given by Dr Read. down wood, assisted by What are ancient trees and why are they Above ground, all the woody parts of the tree microorganisms such as bacteria. important? gain a coating of wood annually, including the Once the wood softens and branches as well as the trunk. The optimal shape starts to break down into its Young trees have a relatively simple structure, for a tree is wide and spreading, maximising the constituent parts, other with a strong dominant stem and a similar root number of leaves that can get sunlight. Many organisms can begin to make structure. As trees mature the roots spreading trees however are constrained by others nearby, use of it. The tree can recycle its sidewards gain greater relative importance and all competing for sunlight so they are drawn up own nutrients through the the original vertical root may start to die back. tall and are less spreading in shape. production of roots which grow into the decaying material in the The limit to a tree’s height is trunk. These roots are not determined by the ability of the tree to usually seen but when a branch draw water up to the highest falls from a tree they may be branches. As the trunk and branches exposed and are referred to as thicken there may also be a limit to its aerial roots. Old trees provide ability to coat the entire woody area homes for a wide variety of with a complete layer of wood. As a organisms, from flies and beetles consequence the tree may stop to mosses and lichens. Such a supplying water and wood to some of tree may have a wide range of Beech pollards in Burnham Beeches the uppermost branches which start to micro habitats including water meters above the ground the tree yielded a die back (a process also known as filled pools, wood in a variety of stages of decay supply of wood or leaves at regular intervals. retrenchment). At the same time and other features like sap runs. Invertebrates in Cutting well above the ground enabled the dieback of the principal root starts particular may have very precise requirements in land underneath to be cultivated; frequently as decay processes at the base of the terms of micro habitat such that only a small grazing land for livestock but could also trunk and hollowing commences. number of trees in a larger population may be include the growing of crops or hay. Pollarding Retrenchment and hollowing are suitable for the survival of a specific species. became frequent in times and places where entirely natural processes and a part of there was intense pressure on the productivity the natural ageing process of the tree. Ancient trees are often revered because of associations with particular people or events of the land. Wood in the centre of a large tree and were often incorporated into designed Two types of pollarding can be distinguished. does not contain living cells. Wood is landscapes because they added an air of In high latitudes or altitudes where grass hay a hard material, poor in nutrients and antiquity. They can also be found as formal production was uncertain, leaf hay can either hard to break down. Fungi play a elements in landscaped gardens, for example as replace it or supplement it. Leaf hay was cut crucial role in the decay process. In avenues. Ancient trees are also common as from tree species such as ash and elm in the living wood trees have natural remnants of past culturally important late summer while the leaves were still on the defences against fungal decay as it is landscapes, and pollards are a particularly good trees. Cut branches were often made into saturated with water which inhibits example of this. bundles, dried and stored for winter livestock fungal growth. As cells die, either feed. Large numbers of fodder pollards were naturally as they age or as a result of Pollarded trees cut in Scandinavia and they can also be seen damage, air penetrates and fungal A pollard is a tree that has been managed in a in many mountainous areas of Europe as well CIMG – young ash pollards cut for the leaves in northern Spain hyphae can start to grow and break (Navarra) particular way. Cut between two and three as the Lake District.

16 17 Ancient Trees (cont)

Burnham Beeches) which have been acquired Pollards in northern Spain since 1878 for the recreation and enjoyment of During a European study tour to look at the public. Through this protection they have pollarding in a variety of different countries, the become extremely important nature reserves. Basque Country of northern Spain was found to Pollarding at Burnham Beeches be very rich in beech pollards. Originally cut for charcoal production and subsequent use in Restoration of ancient beech pollards at Burnham iron foundries, the production of wood from has been carried out since around 1984. Initially pollards was on a massive and industrial scale there were strong reservations about working on while the land underneath the trees was ancient trees (the pollards at Burnham are important pasture for sheep. The growing between 400 and 500 years old). Lack of conditions are better than in the south of historical written records about how to pollard, England, with higher moisture levels; but the coupled with the new situation of lapsed pollards large number of trees has enabled experimental with very large heavy branches, hindered this work to be carried out that would not be process. Initially some experimental work was feasible in the UK. In addition, the still strong done on younger trees and from this two axe culture in this area coupled with elderly principles were established. First, despite beech charcoal makers who cut the trees in their being a shade-tolerant tree species, recently-cut youth has provided a very interesting trees need more light than might be expected. opportunity to look at trees with a short lapse Secondly, removing all the branches from even a time since last cutting and talk to people about very young beech tree is rarely successful and their traditional management. generally leads to death or, at best, poor trees. These principles were then applied to the old Cooperation between the City of London and pollards and have proved successful in reducing various tree surgeons and site managers in the overall mortality rate. The current work northern Spain enabled some experimental programme aims to clear competing trees from cutting work to be carried out there in 2007. around the old ones by forming a ring or ‘halo’ Trees cut using axes or chainsaws were around the tree. Then reduction work is carried compared and traditional (hard) cutting of Gorbaia – beech pollards in northern Spain (Alava) out, removing 3–5m from the crown in a series pollard branches close to the bolling compared Pollards for wood production were cut in the of such trees remaining although their of stages, each cut being made 5–10 years after to the more gradual restoration cutting. winter. Trees species such as oak, beech and management has been abandoned for many the previous one. In this way tree height is Revisiting the trees after three growing seasons hornbeam were cut for use as wood fuel or for years. Referred to as lapsed pollards, the legacy reduced and the centre of gravity brought down enabled a detailed evaluation. charcoal making. Hornbeam was particularly of past management followed by neglect has which makes the tree more stable and less likely Traditional cutting methods can stimulate important in the London area for bread making resulted in large heavy branches on top of to collapse or fall apart. production of more clusters of shoots than as it burns very hot. fragile and decaying trunks. Sites with Evaluation of responses by looking at which gradual reduction but greater dieback results; concentrations of old pollards are now Pollarding was an extremely important practice factors have a positive or negative impact on and some trees cut hard have subsequently designated as nature reserves of European in the past, widely carried out on wooded the ability of the tree to produce new shoots died. This method when used on old trees is Importance for their biodiversity value. The City commons across the UK where local people after cutting, together with information about therefore a high risk strategy which may be of London owns and manages two such areas needed wood for heating and cooking. Around the amount of dieback of branches, has helped successful but is often detrimental to the tree. within 25 miles of the City (Epping Forest and London there are especially large concentrations refine the work.

18 19 A View of the Heath

Jeremy Simons recently completed his term of office as Chairman of the City of London’s Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen’s Park Management Committee, the principal decision-making body for the management of the Heath. The following is an edited version of the speech he delivered at a dinner at Trinity House on 12 October to mark the end of his term. Chairman, Aldermen, Your Worships, Chief the faint of heart”. Geoff wrote: “I’ve always Commoner, Ladies and Gentlemen – my task thought that being chairman of the Hampstead this evening is to offer a few reflections on the Heath Management Committee might be one of events of the past three years. those ‘jobs to avoid’”. Being Chairman of the Management Committee is, in my view, one of However, before doing so, could I draw your the best jobs in London – despite being unpaid attention to section 24 of the Hampstead and with perks that are few and far between, Heath Act of 1871: “No byelaw which shall this dinner excepted. extend to the prohibition of military drill on the Heath shall have any force until it has No two weeks are the same. The sheer range of received the sanction of the Secretary of State issues that come the way of the Chairman is for War”. Those that framed the Hampstead enormous. Where else would one get involved Heath Act in 1871 clearly envisaged that the with Diving Boards, A Beacon that refused to Heath might be used for military drill. This Light, Memorial Benches, An Inflatable section is still in force. Stonehenge, Cycling, Not One but Three Dinosaurs, A Six Way Ping-Pong Table, Blocked Havergal Brian’s Opera “The Tigers” is a satire on Lavatories, Cross Country Races, Conker British military inefficiency in preparing to send Competitions, even Lemurs… ? The list is endless. men to war. It was completed in 1919. The score was subsequently lost until rediscovered in the A Chairman needs to be resilient as well as 1970’s in the basement of a Japanese restaurant reasonably fit. I don’t drive a car, so usually get in Denmark Street. It has never been staged. about on a bicycle. As Chairman, I made 183 visits to the Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen’s The first two scenes take place on Hampstead Park. When coming from Central London, one Heath on the Sunday of August Bank Holiday must scale the Northern Heights. During my 1914, one day before the UK declared war on three years, I cycled uphill a height equivalent Beech pollards in Burnham Beeches Germany. The scene is the Heath’s famous Bank to Mount Everest! A sense of humour also Holiday Fair, with a vast array of characters: a Axe cut branches had more clusters of new Ancient and pollarded trees provide interesting comes in useful at times, as does not taking toy seller, a sweetmeat seller, an old clothes shoots relative to those cut with a chainsaw; but challenging subjects for study. Of immense oneself too seriously. but this result is confounded by a relationship importance for wildlife and with a high cultural seller, a fruit seller – even a large elephant and with stub length which differed significantly value they are a part of our heritage as much its keeper. To my knowledge it is the only I have been extremely fortunate to have worked between the two cutting types (longer stubs as, for example, listed buildings. Trees such as opera ever to have been set on Hampstead with two really excellent Superintendents: have been shown in several studies to be pollards with a long history of active Heath. Perhaps one day an opera house will Simon Lee and Bob Warnock. Both are important for the production of plentiful new management have an especially high wildlife stage it. Although I’ve only once seen a live complete professionals. Both have the shoots). This potentially interesting result value. Managing these trees can present elephant in an opera house. managerial ability coupled with an amazing amount of horticultural and arboricultural needs more research in order to establish if difficult problems but learning from other Three years ago, Geoff Martin, the Editor of the knowledge, and, most importantly, the there is a true difference between tool types. countries enables the refinement of restoration Hampstead & Highgate Express, wrote a column ∫ temperament necessary to balance the not and management techniques. under the headline “Being Heath boss isn’t for

20 21 A View of the Heath (cont)

inconsiderable task of running three open all the local civic societies and other groups spaces, together visited nine million times a that assisted ? Your help has been invaluable. I Hampstead Theatre year, within the constraints imposed by the know it has not always been easy. However, Eton Avenue NW3 3EU resources offered by the Corporation of London: I do believe that without the sometimes Support your local theatre resources in excess of what could be afforded difficult road we have all trod, and all those by other local authorities. hours spent in the Parliament Hill Conference Become a Friend of Hampstead Theatre Room, we would not be where we are today. Avoid disappointment by becoming a Friend At the same time the City is under the closest and taking advantage of our priority booking of scrutiny by the local community. The people Open spaces are one of the jewels in the City period. For just £40 per annum Friends of North London can be hard taskmasters. of London’s crown. Some would say that receive the following benefits: They care deeply about the Heath. They take a Hampstead Heath is THE jewel in the City’s • Priority Booking great interest in the Heath. They examine crown! That the City invests coming on for • Advance notice of forthcoming productions everything in the minutest of detail. And they £20m a year of its own resources – not public person who runs the fastest, or who has the • Quarterly e-newsletter offer advice and guidance on every subject. money – in the stewardship of open spaces is best conker. But it is the Superintendent and • Invitations to exclusive events at the Theatre Rightly so. But, at the end of the day, it is the a measure of its commitment. Speaking his staff who do the real work. • 10% discount at Hampstead Theatre bar Superintendent who is responsible for the personally, I would like to see more people management of the Heath. Management that is And there is an awful lot of it that goes on, sharing this commitment over the coming For more details see: generally well regarded. seven days a week, fifty-two weeks a year, in years, whether through sponsorship, regular or www.hampsteadtheatre.com/support-us managing the Heath. To keep the show on the legacy giving or volunteering. ‘Heath Hands’ Tel: 020 7449 4155 At times, the lot of a Superintendent is not a road. So that everyone visiting the Heath, and the ‘Wild about Hampstead Heath’ particularly easy one. He must balance all the We look forward to welcoming you soon Highgate Wood and Queen’s Park can enjoy volunteers give generously of their time. I suggestions, requests and advice, demands www.hampsteadtheatre.com themselves – whether walking the dog, playing would like to see others give generously in even. Sometimes conflicting: should there be sport or simply enjoying being there. For this other ways. There should be a real sense of more bramble on the Heath, or should there be we must thank both Simon Lee and Bob ownership by the community. This sense of less bramble on the Heath ? Should there be Warnock. I move on after three years. ownership can already be seen at Queen’s Date for more cycling routes on the Heath, or not ? Superintendents dedicate a fair chunk of their Park, through the local community’s support Should the protected view from Parliament Hill your diary lives to the Heath. of the children’s play area. It is sometimes said be protected, or should trees be allowed to that, when something comes free, people do encroach upon the view ? Returning to that occasional challenge I mentioned a moment ago: the one that has not value it. This is certainly not the case with The Heath & Hampstead Society The Superintendent must be available morning, occupied so many people for the best part of Hampstead Heath. noon and evening to meet people. To discuss Annual Christmas Party the last five years. The one that is now well on Could I end by expressing my appreciation for issues on site, to engage with what today are the way to being resolved. The one that, all the staff that work at the Heath, Highgate known as “stakeholders”. The Chairman’s job, Wednesday 9 December 7–9 pm following a decision of the Court of Common Wood and Queen’s Park. For your hard work, is by comparison, far less demanding. He or Council, took three years and nine months of knowledge and skill, and for your love of the Burgh House she is not – contrary to what many planning, debate, engagement, consultation, Heath. You make the North London Open correspondents of the Hampstead & Highgate New End Square design, and above all teamwork before work Spaces what they are. A resource for all Express or the Camden New Journal may think actually started. Many people: City Officers, Londoners and for all communities. A resource Tickets £13 – the “boss” of Hampstead Heath. The Hydrologists, External Consultants, Landscape that brings people together. A resource of Chairman may face the occasional challenge. Architects, Ecologists, Lawyers, Surveyors, Civil immense importance for the health and Your invitation is enclosed He or she may chair meetings and attend Engineers, Contractors and the public at large wellbeing of society. And a resource that we with this Newsletter events on the Heath, handing out prizes to the were involved. Could I say a few words about all care very much about. ∫

22 23 Burgh House: A Renaissance Project

Burgh House, one of the most important buildings in Hampstead and one with which the Society has a long and close connection, is launching a funding appeal for essential works. Mark Francis, the Director of Burgh House, explains the background. only our own collection, but also working Burgh House, one of the priceless treasures of Built in 1704, Burgh House is a fine example of with other local organisations such as The Hampstead, urgently needs the community’s a Queen Anne mansion, with a fascinating Heath & Hampstead Society and, currently, support. Not for the running costs – because history that has played an integral role in the Hampstead’s Gaia Foundation. this splendid House itself raises every penny it development of Hampstead. Its residents have The House is in constant use by the needs to keep open to the public as a vibrant ranged from artisans, bankers, politicians and community. There are multiple workshops for community arts centre, meeting place and local clergymen to Hampstead’s most famous spa children and babies every week, bridge and history museum. The support is needed for the physician and Rudyard Kipling’s daughter – and scrabble clubs, as well as choirs and art latest programme of essential works on the it even experienced a brief spell as a militia tutorials. The Buttery cafe set in the basement fabric of this Grade 1 listed building, required to headquarters and barracks. of the house, and throughout the charming keep the House open – free of charge – to the The House was saved from a sale into corporate Gertrude Jekyll-designed garden terrace, is public. It is work that is also required by law. oblivion by a huge public campaign and buzzing with chatter from both tourists and fundraising effort in 1979. The Burgh locals alike at weekends, but Wednesday to series that has seen interviews with the very House Trust was established as a Friday you can still find a quiet corner to read best of Hampstead’s glitterati. registered charity and, 36 years later, a book or enjoy a catch up with delicious we are still going stronger than ever. homemade fayre, loose-leaf teas and great The modern Peggy Jay Gallery at Burgh House wine list. hosts regularly changing contemporary art Today, the House is a dynamic arts exhibitions from both local and international centre, meeting place, museum, The beautiful music room, panelled with artists, so visitors to the House always have new gallery, private hire venue and home honey-coloured stripped Scandinavian pine and fascinating shows to see. to many long-established local from the now demolished Weatherall House on Hampstead societies. The House and Well Walk, hosts multiple talks, plays and The Burgh House Trust has embarked on Museum now welcome nearly 1,000 recitals including the ever popular Lifelines many projects to save, restore and improve the visitors a week through their doors, House over the years. with activities and events for all The early days saw the ages, and working with local battle to create a building schools, residential homes and fit for public use, the education centres. fight against dry rot, and holes in the roof. As we The House and Museum now hold a brought the House into the collection of nearly 4000 documents, 21st century, the Trust took objects, photographs and artworks on an ambitious extension relating to the local area, and have a and refurbishment project, permanent two-room display that creating modern toilets, charts the history of Hampstead from accessible entrances, an the prehistoric to the modern day. accredited museum and With two beautifully panelled the much-loved Peggy temporary exhibition rooms, the Jay Gallery. House is able to show an ambitious Today we face an equally programme of exhibitions using not tough job to future-proof

24 25 Burgh House (cont)

the House and keep the doors open, free of charge, to the community. As with all buildings, Christmas at Burgh House Hampstead Christmas Festival but particularly ones of this age, maintenance is An Evening of Carols & Christmas Cheer On the 29 November Hampstead expensive and there is always something new High Street will be turned into a to do. The House requires rewiring from top to Wednesday 2 December, 7pm magical Christmas scene with bottom; not a glamorous task, but absolutely Join the St Genesius Chamber Choir at Burgh a Christmas market run by essential if we are to stay open. clevercreationsevents.com House for an uplifting traditional carol Alongside these major electrical works, we are concert.Tickets £12/10 (FoBH) including a Selling gifts, delicious repairing our beautiful early 18th century gates glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. Give us international food and drink there will be a and gate piers in November 2015, a £15,000 a call, drop in or visit or website for tickets project that will see the iconic gates returned funfair, live music, a Christmas Art & Craft Fair Christmas grotto, reindeer, to their original splendour. We have decided film show, children’s to keep the House open while the various raise another £120,000 to secure the future of Sunday 6 December, 11am – 4pm activities and lots more. Burgh House and Hampstead Museum – and FREE ENTRY we won’t be able to do this without the support The festive fun kicks off with a free Get into the festive spirit and start the screening at the Hampstead and generosity of the community that saved the Everyman Cinema of a children’s House in the first place. Christmas season with a bang with our annual Christmas Fair.There’ll be fantastic arts and movie. There will also be fantastic Burgh House and Hampstead Museum are an musical acts including Björn Again crafts stalls from London makers and designers, on the main stage and WAC Arts essential and much-loved part of the Hampstead on the main stage and WAC Arts plus carol singing, kids’ lucky dip, mulled wine, performing on the second stage. Community. This ‘Renaissance’ project will allow mince pies and a whole lot of jollity. Fairground attractions including a us to keep it that way for generations to come. Big Wheel, a Santa’s Grotto, If you can make a donation, help in any way, We also have a stunning array of handmade reindeer, petting zoo, street music, or would just like to find out more, please get and vintage card designs in our Burgh House face painting and a Christmas ∫ novelty cake competition. in touch. We really do need your support. shop, not to mention scrummy Damson Tree Contact Mark Francis, Director goodies, natural cosmetics and an extensive Our chosen charity this year is the works are carried out as we recognise just Telephone: 020 7431 0144 collection of books. Burgh House has got Hampstead Community Centre it provides a range of support how many people in the community rely on original Christmas gifts covered. the Trust’s services. services and activities including a Burgh House & Hampstead Museum Christmas day lunch event for With these repairs, we will also be able to older people on their own. Historic house, museum and independent increase our capacity to work with volunteers charity for arts and the community. We are delighted that BBC’s Fiona and interns, increase the amount of outreach we Bruce will be switching on the do in the community, particularly in local Burgh House Hampstead Christmas lights. schools, and restore and showcase the New End Square http://www.hampsteadvillagelondon.com/christmas wonderful original features inside the building. NW3 1LT The Trust has already spent £18,000 on repairs . 020 7431 0144 to the roof this year and we have made good www.burghhouse.org.uk headway raising the money to complete the rest of the essential maintenance. But we need to Open: Wed,Thur, Fri & Sunday 12 – 5:00pm

26 27 Obituaries

Christopher Wade Willoughby Road, where he lived for nearly many of which have been exhibited in 60 years until his death. Sadly, Diana died important Burgh House exhibitions. 1921–2015 suddenly in 1991 at the very young age of 61. “The immense popularity of the Museum Society General Committee: 1976–1978 Society Patron: Since May 2004 He had jumped at the opportunity of taking today pays tribute to the hard work and Christopher Wade, the eminent local historian last resting places of local celebrities and early retirement from the BBC in 1975 – foresight of Christopher Wade,” said Martin who was one of the great champions of politicians. Many other publications were to happy to escape the growing tensions in the Humphery, former chairman of the Heath Hampstead and one of the “magnificent follow, including Constable’s Hampstead and, organisation between the advocates of high and Hampstead Society. seven” who saved Burgh House, died on 24 For the Poor of Hampstead, Forever, a history culture and those who pressed for a more Christopher used to hold lively Wednesday August. He was 95 years old. of the Hampstead Wells and Campden Trust. popularist approach. And from then on he morning sessions at Burgh House when In the foreword to that history, the then devoted his time to local history. Hardly a week went by in the ’70s, ’80s and residents and would-be house buyers could chairman of the Trust wrote: “Christopher come and ask about any aspect of ’90s when Christopher was not quoted in the Then in 1978, the news broke that Camden probably knows more about the history of Hampstead history, its houses and streets. Ham & High or simply provided reporters was planning to sell off Burgh House, and Hampstead than anyone alive today.” More recently he became frail and was with background information. Whenever he was one of the heroes, with Peggy Jay confined to a wheelchair. Five weeks ago he anyone needed to know anything about Christopher was born in Bradford in 1921 and and others, who set out determinedly to had a fall and was admitted to the Royal Free Hampstead, the cry would go up: “Ask at the age of seven he was packed off to a save the magnificent Grade 1 listed Queen where, unfortunately, pneumonia took hold. Christopher Wade!” Once, having hurt his boarding school in Margate and later to Anne house in New End Square. A big “As a father he was hugely supportive,” his back, he was confined to bed. He later wrote: Shrewsbury School – not a happy experience, public campaign led the following year to daughter Joanna told the Ham & High. “He “Lying bored in bed and longing for some he later told his own children, Joanna and the establishment of the Burgh House Trust, Harry. He was much happier at Trinity under the then chairmanship of David believed that we should all be empowered to mind-grabbing, pain-relieving project, I asked do whatever we decided to do.” Diana to search the shops for an up-to-date College, Cambridge, where he read modern Sullivan QC. Then he and Diana founded history of Hampstead. She returned to report languages and became fluent in French and the Museum on the first floor, and became In my view, Christopher was one of the that there was no such thing.” The rest was German. During the war he was a Flight joint honorary curators, initially with little priceless treasures of Hampstead. He not only history, He knew where every famous person Lieutenant in the RAF. His poor eyesight more than some documents and played a vital part in saving this magnificent photocopies, but later with many impressive had lived, and the history of their streets and meant that he couldn’t fly, so he was sent to house, but also started the museum and went exhibits. Asked once by the Ham & High houses. His card index revealed, too, where Sierra Leone to look after an airstrip. But at on to mentor the professional curators who whether there was a collective noun for all the artists, musicians and writers had lived the end of the year he was in Brussels, where followed him in that post. he chased around gathering important papers curators, he thought long and hard and and worked, complete with relevant dates. A small, private family service was held, and debriefing German airmen. Then he finally telephoned his response. “It should “His skills as a researcher developed to the followed by a public gathering at Burgh joined the BBC and rose to become head of be a ‘curiosity’ of curators,” he said. He was point when he could answer just about any House on 18 October to celebrate his the television script unit, where he developed for many years an active member of the question about Hampstead known by man remarkable life and contribution to the area. an encyclopedic knowledge of actors, Burgh House Trust and the Camden History and woman,” his daughter, Joanna, wrote. The family asked that instead of any flowers directors and writers. He was proud to have Society, but when his eyesight, and people should make donations to the Burgh And it was knowledge that he shared with the helped to develop the careers of the likes of particularly his hearing, deteriorated, he House Trust. world by publishing, in 1972, The Streets of Dennis Potter and Jack Rosenthal. It was here withdrew from meetings but continued to Hampstead – which was much revised and is that he met Diana, his secretary at the BBC, work as a steward at the House and to take Taken from an obituary for the Ham and still in print. That was followed by The Streets whom he married and lured to Hampstead in a close interest in its work. With enormous High by Matthew Lewin, Chairman of the of Belsize, The Streets of West Hampstead and 1956 with a promise of finding her “a house generosity he funded the acquisition of Trustees of Burgh House and former editor of even Buried in Hampstead, which listed the on a hill”. They bought a house in many paintings, artefacts and documents, the Ham and High. ∫

28 29 Obituaries (cont)

David Sullivan the couple mainly lived In Hampstead, close delightfully illustrated by his 1991 radio play, to the painter’s London home, encouraged this A Right Royal Burglary, a vivid account of a 1926–2015 fascination. Sullivan made a close study of 1303 smash and grab raid at the Abbey. Constable’s cloud paintings, about which he Society General Committee: 1973–1981 Sometime Chair (Society) Heath Sub-Committee Probably Sullivan’s proudest achievement, lectured, and, in 1986, wrote a BBC radio one which allowed him to use his David Sullivan Q.C., historian, and scholarship to Christ Church Oxford in 1943 feature, titled, quoting Constable, ‘Shadows eloquence, mastery of detail, and knowledge community activist, died, 9 July, aged 89. to read Classics. Are Realities To Me’. When David Sullivan was a young man, of legal intricacies, was his part in saving The Second World War interrupted and from reading Classics at Oxford, he heard the Sullivan had also begun work on two Burgh House from a Council sell-off in 1978. 1944 to 1946, Sullivan served as a great Whig Historian, G.M Trevelyan, lecture. detailed pieces of historical research on the Sullivan was one of ‘The Magnificent Seven’ sub-lieutenant in the Royal Navy Volunteer Trevelyan described the joy a historian feels medieval abbey and town of Westminster, – which included the formidable Peggy Jay, Reserve, patrolling Scottish waters, and once in trying to “breathe a spark of new life into which took him more than a decade to Hampstead’s historian, Christopher Wade, being asked to guard a number of captured the men and women who had formed a past complete and which were published in two and the then editor of the Hampstead and German U-Boat sailors on his own. No one, society or culture”. Sullivan remembers him volumes: The Westminster Corridor [1994], Highgate Express, Gerry lsaaman – who it seems, got away. as likening it to “peering into illuminated and The Westminster Circle [2006]. These two fought a two-year battle to save the house houses, in an effort to see the occupants Back at Oxford, he graduated in Classics in closely researched and beautifully and garden and to turn it into the revealed against the background of the dark 1948 with a First Class degree and began to documented books brought together Hampstead Museum and Arts Centre, which outside”. Which, in a way is what David read Law, being called to the Bar at the Inner Sullivan’s interest in, and knowledge of, it still is today. Temple in 1951. This was the beginning of a topography and geology, as well as his eye Sullivan, lawyer, historian, community David Sullivan was a man of great personal distinguished career, in which he first for, sometimes hilarious, detail. This last was champion, landscape painter, and passionate charm and, once a certain shyness had been specialised in Contract Law, representing, defender of tradition, did in his own life. breached, a warm and affectionate friend and among others, the Beatles and Frank Zappa, He was born in Nakuru, Kenya, where his father. He had three daughters by his first and then became an Insurance Law expert, father was a rural farm manager. The marriage, Oriel [born 1957], Theresa [born working for the Malaysian and Saudi Arabian freedom of a Kenyan early childhood was 1959] and Jocelyn [born 1962]. His second governments. He also played a prominent part abruptly ended when, aged 7, he was sent marriage, in 1981, to Ann, brought him a in the 1968 Thalidomide drug compensation as a boarder to Haileybury School, which, at stepson, Mark, and stepdaughter, Harriet. He case, where he appeared for the drug that time, had strong military and imperial loved Hampstead and Suffolk equally, but company and helped hammer out the details connections. A rough experience for a was perhaps most contented in the thatched of a settlement. He took silk in 1975, became young boy and one which marked his life Suffolk cottage he and both his wives had a Bencher in 1984, and, for three years, was for good and bad. A positive result was an chairman of the Central Policy Committee for cared for so lovingly. A 1989 radio interest in imperial history and, in particular, the Mental Health Act of 1983. documentary Straw and Steel celebrated the a fascination with the life of Warren place and its history. It was, in the end, his Hastings, about whom he later wrote a play. Sullivan finally retired from legal work in 1988. ‘illuminated house’. But the wrenching away from his parents, But the historian in him had never gone away. Piers Plowright, journalist, broadcaster and particularly his mother, left him, at least for In 1962, he and his first wife, Sheila – he’d a while, emotionally damaged. He survived married her in 1953 – bought a Suffolk cottage, Burgh House supporter, from an obituary for this by becoming an excellent cricketer, in the heart of John Constable country, and The Times. representing the school and playing at Sullivan began a deep involvement with There was a celebration of David’s life at Lord’s, and by academic success, winning a Constable’s landscape painting. The fact that Burgh House on Sunday 22 November. ∫

30 31 Obituaries (cont)

Ray Softly kept meticulous records, filling 53 notebooks Civic Voice and several thousand slides which were in a new project to conserve 1915–2015 passed to the Herts Moth Group. His Three former committee members pay tribute to Ray Softly who passed away peacefully in knowledge of moths and butterflies was First World War Memorials th June, eight days before his 100 birthday legendary and he was always most generous Civic Voice, the umbrella body for civic in sharing this knowledge such as when he societies, of which our Society is a member, Ray Softly made an immense contribution to Heath Sub-Committee for many years and was showed me his discovery of a tube web is to be part of a nationwide drive the Society and the Heath. During his 25 its conscience in all matters concerning the spider colony near the Ladies Pond which announced by Prime Minister David years as an H&HS General Committee Heath’s natural history and wildlife. He was he feared was endangered; on another Cameron in July, to conserve and protect member (1978–2003), he was Chair of the also active in the Hampstead Scientific occasion he showed the Heath war memorials over the four year period of Heath Sub-Committee and Vice-Chair of the Society, and was an Honorary Vice-President Superintendent a tiny patch of Heath the First World War Centenary. Society (1981–1986), using his expertise on of the London Natural History Society. Bedstraw on East Heath which might Details of the £5 million fund for the project flora and fauna to urge the GLC to improve otherwise have been destroyed. He recorded From 1973 to 2008 he operated two moth include £3 million for the War Memorials their management. He was also Editor of the the first English sighting of a rare species of traps from his flat in South End Green and Trust to boost support for their grant Newsletter between 1979 and 1986, organising moth which was named in his honour as the schemes and expand their team of specialist a team of people who delivered the ‘Softly Shoulder-knot’ (Lithophane consocia). Conservation Officers. Imperial War He also appeared on ITV in ‘London newsletter by hand. Museums will receive half a million pounds Wildlife Challenge’. Jeremy Wright Following war service with the Royal to develop a website to help communities Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (working A most sincere and dedicated man, Ray was find out where information about war with the new radar systems), Ray joined the always a good friend during my years on memorials can be found. English Heritage National Westminster Bank in the City, where the South End Green Association committee will receive half a million pounds to he rose to become head of the Foreign and with him. He loved the Heath and his work provide better protection for war memorials, Documentary Department. of monitoring and observing its Lepidoptera deliver a larger pool of skilled and trained was untiring. We had many discussions specialists to repair them, and develop an After separating from his wife, he met Mary about finding the balance between opening education toolkit for schools to allow pupils Maclean (obituary, H&HS Newsletter January up corridors between the trees to enable to research their local memorials. 2013) and moved to Hampstead in the mid butterflies to move to different habitats and Civic Voice will be given half a million 1970’s. His many articles for the H&HS the need to manage the flora for the benefit pounds to create a national network of Newsletter, both about the politics of Heath of other wildlife or people. management as well as its ecology and volunteers involving civic societies and His expertise in working the transcepts on natural history, form a most valuable element amenity groups, over the four year the Heath and the fact that he was always of the Society’s Archive. His quiet authority, centenary period, to help build skills to there to give advice whenever an unusual charm and humour made it a pleasure to assess the condition of war memorials and moth or butterfly had been spotted is have him as a colleague and he will be fondly encourage their conservation. greatly missed, as is his light but remembered. Helen Marcus professional dissemination of his For more information see: A very gentle and private man, Ray was a knowledge to all who had the privilege of http://www.civicvoice.org.uk/campaigns/ stalwart of the Heath & Hampstead Society’s knowing him. John Hunt ∫ war-memorials-/

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