Coast GU ARDIAN FREE guide to an area of outstanding natural beauty 2010

A SPECIAL PLACE Get closer to nature Take your place in a landmark year

OUT & ABOUT Coastal heroes See much Giving a little, getting a lot more Explore on foot, on bike or public transport

EVENTS Join in and have fun Discover what’s on around the coast this year IN YOUR NORFOLK COAST GUARDIAN...

3 A SHARED PLACE The coast belongs to all of us – special feature introduction. 4-5 A SPECIAL PLACE International Year of Biodiversity, underwater world, fun at . 6-7 A CARED FOR PLACE Join the Friends of the Norfolk coast, volunteering on a nature reserve. 8-9 A SUSTAINABLE PLACE Tales from the past, funding opportunities, green holidays and common rights. 10-11 AN INSPIRING PLACE What inspires artists, the story of the exhibition. 12-13 MAP AND TRANSPORT Bus services, heritage railways and cycle hire 14-16 OUT & ABOUT Walk calculator, cycleway tips, star-gazing. 17 LOCAL PRODUCE GUIDE 18 PUZZLES AND COMPETITION 19-23 EVENTS Check out hundreds of great events.

NORFOLK COAST PARTNERS Natural Country Land & Business Association Norfolk County Council National Farmers Union District Council Norfolk Farming and Borough Council of King’s Lynn Wildlife Advisory Group & West Norfolk Parishes Representatives Borough Council AONB Common Rights Holders Broads Authority Wells Harbour Commissioners Environment Agency The Wash and North Norfolk Coast English Heritage European Marine Site Management Scheme Wash Estuary Strategy Group National Trust Peddars Way and Norfolk Coast RSPB Path National Trail THE NORFOLK COAST PARTNERSHIP The Old Courthouse, Baron’s Close, , Norfolk NR21 8BE T: 01328 850530 F: 01328 850546 E: [email protected] W: www.norfolkcoastaonb.org.uk Norfolk Coast Partnership staff Funding Partners Manager: Tim Venes Natural England Policy and partnership officer: Norfolk County Council Estelle Hook North Norfolk District Council Communications officer: Lucy Galvin Borough Council of King’s Lynn Community and external funding & West Norfolk officer: Kate Dougan Great Yarmouth Borough Council Technical assistant: Steve Tutt Articles available in large print: please contact 01328 850530 or via website www.norfolkcoastaonb.org.uk

The Norfolk Coast Guardian is published by BC Publications on behalf of the Norfolk Coast Partnership. Editor: Lucy Galvin. Designed and produced by: BC Publications 01986 834250 Printed by Mortons Print Ltd on 100% recycled newsprint. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication. However, the publishers can accept no responsibility for any effects arising there from. Views expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Norfolk Coast Partnership member organisations. All material copyright Norfolk Coast Partnership 2010. NCP 03/10 – 60K Cover: Top row (left to right): Mary Ghullam, Olive Edis, Johnny Webster, Fairyland Trust, Erica Goode, NT event. 2nd row (left to right): Mike Barnard, Gill Hoyes, Jamie Rickers, RSPB event, Willie Long, Robert Coleman. 3rd row (left to right): Richard Burton, Robert Simpson. 4th row (left to right): National Trust event, Brancaster Harbour, Grandfather Craske, Fairyland Trust event, John Millwood, Joanna Latham. 5th row (left to right): James McCallum, Rob Spray, John Buxton, John Craske, William Searle, Mike Barrett. 6th row (left to right): John Prockter, cycling at , Sajid Latif, Jenny Brandish, Tom Barnes Cooper, Julia Rafferty. NORFOLK COAST GUARDIAN 2010 A SHARED PLACE 3

Generations of care Lend a hand, Meet the first of our coastal heroes. Seventy years seperate them in age give a little, but they are both devoted to the place. John Buxton (pictured below) has dedicated his life to conservation at Horsey and for Nicole Higgs, aged 12, get a lot the environment is a top priority. Profile by Keith Harrison. Loved by many, the Norfolk Coast is protected nationally and internationally for its rare pecial people are needed when ‘We should keep the beaches clean for everyone’ qualities. It has something important to offer an increase in visitors creates problems. In the eastern region NICOLE HIGGS is from the western end of the Norfolk Coast, and is aged 12: “I all of us, local and visitor, expert and of the area of outstanding natural love living here, it feels like the perfect spot, it does not take long to get to the beach beginner, young and old. S and I am also close to lots of woods and fields so I can enjoy those too. I love to go beauty, we are extremely fortunate to In return, we all have something to offer have people like John Buxton of Horsey to the beach and walk on the sand, Brancaster is my favourite as it’s so big. I hate to see rubbish left behind, I once picked up some broken glass from the sand that the coast. By our actions - no matter how big Hall. He has dedicated his life to the or small - we are a part of this living management of the Horsey estate, a na- someone had left. We should keep the beach clean so everyone can enjoy it. ture reserve of 1750 acres including I think we are really lucky to live here as people who live in cities don’t get to landscape. experience the country as much as we do. I love to spend as much time as I can Horsey Mill, Horsey Mere, Horsey vil- There's room here for rare wildlife as well as outside, I like to help nature and the environment as much as I can. I recently found lage and surrounding marsh land. a family of hedgehogs living in my garden, I fed the mother and her six babies every working businesses. Designated an area of Now aged 82, John arrived at Horsey day, I also feed the birds that come into my garden. outstanding natural beauty, the Norfolk Coast Hall in 1932 when he was four, with his I have been going to the Fairyland Trust’s is part of an extended family of protected father Major Anthony Buxton. John’s fa- Fairy Fairs for around four years now and areas which make a network of nature over ther, being interested in nature, the envi- I have learnt lots of things about ronment, and conservation, bought nature from their workshops which the world. Horsey Estate and managed it until 1948, have helped me spot things in my People are part of this network. In this when he made it over to the National garden, especially butterflies. edition of the Norfolk Coast Guardian we Trust, including Horsey Mill and Mere. Other things I do to help the focus on just a few of the unsung coastal He continued to manage the conserva- environment is have a compost tion of the estate, looking after the inter- bin for all of our household heroes who give their time and effort in so nationally important and protected waste, I use eco friendly bags, many ways. marshes, reed beds, and land which are my family walk as much as we From surveying mosses to photographing SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest), can instead of driving and I sea slugs (page 4); from keeping watch sort all of my rubbish into the RAMSAR (internationally protected over the sea (page 6) to cleaning beaches wetland), AoSP (Area of Special Protec- correct recycling bins. I think this tion) and SAC (Special Area of Conser- is really important.” (page 7); from working with communities vation) sites. For more about the Fairyland (page 8) to toddlers (page 11); each is John took on this conservation man- Trust, see page 22. contributing to caring for the coast. And one Fairyland Trust Fairyland agement role from his father in 1958, and Enjoying nature at a Fairy Fair thing they all share is their agreement that this has meant that together they have flora and fauna. In order to preserve the quietly goes about superbly managing whatever they put in, the Norfolk Coast gives managed the Horsey estate for a com- delicate ecosystem, I do keep some areas the estate, and keeping a small part of the mendable 78 years. His son Robin took private and allow access by invitation area very special. back - and more. on the leasehold of the Horsey Estate in only.” Keith Harrison is the Norfolk Coast We hope you'll enjoy reading their stories, 2000 and so he is carrying on the family “I have noticed many changes over Partnership’s Eastern Parishes and be inspired to join them in finding ways tradition of conservation, he is also a pro- the years, but the biggest impact has been Representative. to look after and enjoy this magical, dynamic, fessional land agent for Burnley Hall, just through the increase in visitors. The diverse place. down the road at Somerton. public have become more aware of PARISH REPRESENTATIVES John Buxton’s love for Horsey and nature, a positive development which Many thanks to all our contributors who its conservation is commonly also leads to management challenges have generously given their time and Keith Harrison is one of the Norfolk Coast known, and he can be seen in order to keep the estate a haven Partnership’s five parish representatives. expertise, including Mary Groombridge around the estate, checking for wildlife, and protected for Local communities are an important part (photographs and interviews) and Ann that all is well. perpetuity.” of the partnership and representatives Prockter (quiz). His careful approach ex- When you talk to John Buxton, provide a valued community voice. The If you'd like to join the Norfolk Coast tends across this special area, you can tell how much he loves this five current parish representatives are: every inch of which he knows place, the village and the area. Keith Harrison; Hilary Thompson; Tony Partnership's volunteer group, Friends of and cares for: “What It’s not easy to imagine Groom; Janice Howell and Richard Searle. the Norfolk Coast, see page 6. makes it special is the the Horsey Estate with- For more information about the parish unusual habitat, out him. John is one of representatives contact Share what you find special about the coast which is home to the Norfolk Coast’s Kate on 01328 850530 or special and rare unsung heroes; he [email protected]. and be in with a chance to win £50 in our photo competition (page 18). Illustration by Illustration Jo Spaul 4 A SPECIAL PLACE NORFOLK COAST GUARDIAN 2010 Get closer to nature Images National Trust/Fisheye The Norfolk Coast’s natural riches are a key part of the web of life on earth on which we all depend. David North explains our place in a landmark year.

skylark high in a blue sum- living everywhere, from nature re- mer sky, singing above the serves to the places we live and work. saltmarsh and sand dunes. Biodiversity is part of cities and A Or a great skein of pink- towns as well as farmland and coun- footed geese patterning the air above tryside. Norfolk, ebbing and flowing like The Norfolk Coast is protected. dawn and dusk , linking sea, sky grasshoppers and other insects. But across the planet, many wild and land with their wild voices. The area is also one of the best habitats are under pressure and scores Those are the moments that high- areas for farmland biodiversity in- of wild species are endangered or are light for me the Norfolk Coast’s in- cluding species such as brown hares, becoming extinct. As human popula- credible natural riches. barn owls, and grey partridges. tions expand and demand a higher That wealth is based on an out- Nationally and internationally standard of living, natural systems Find out more about… standing range of habitats. The salt- protected, the area of outstanding such as freshwater wetlands and forest • NWT events on the Norfolk Coast page 20 marshes, freshwater grazing marshes, natural beauty is a way to care for, ex- systems are vanishing - reclaimed for • NWT events and weekly wildlife feature norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk sand dunes and shingle areas along plain and access nature. And this is agriculture or simply built on. • Endangered species and habitats in Norfolk norfolkbiodiversity.org the coast are famous hotspots for na- critically important, as we all depend In a similar way, species in the ma- • Norfolk Biodiversity Information Service nbis.org.uk ture, and include areas recognised as on ‘biodiversity’ – the rich range of rine environment have been threat- • UK biodiversity events biodiversityislife.net internationally important for their species which makes up our ecosys- ened by overfishing and pollution. • International events cbd.int/2010/welcome many wildlife species. tems and supports life on the planet. Some of the most biodiverse habitats • Volunteering with the National Trust nationaltrust.org.uk Less well-known habitats, from Biodiversity regulates our climate, on the planet, coral reefs, are being saline lagoons to the soft crumbly maintains the fertility of our soils, badly damaged through climate Having fun discovering nature with the National Trust at Sheringham Park glacial cliffs, support many rare keeps our water clean, maintains the change. We have lost one third of species of invertebrates whose pres- balance of life-critical elements like global rainforests in the past 50 years 20% of the world’s bird and mammal 2010 is the International Year of ence goes largely unseen and un- oxygen in our atmosphere and de- – and at the current rate could lose species face extinction and the situa- Biodiversity, a global UN-backed ini- recognised but are no less vital. composes everything from dead bod- almost all of the rest in the next 50. tion for plant species is even worse. tiative to finally halt rates of species Inland, there are remnants of once ies to much of our waste, then We can’t afford to lose rainforests, as So protected areas like the Nor- loss. Over 200 partners are supporting extensive heathlands, such as Salt- recycles this in forms that are vital to they are one of the key ways our folk Coast – where people are suc- it in the UK, including the family of house and Kelling heaths, fragments our continued existence. planet regulates its temperature. cessfully working with nature -are areas of outstanding natural beauty, of ancient woodland, and commons Biodiversity is simply the range of Wherever you look there is pres- critically important. So are initiatives and the Wildlife Trusts. There’s lots and churchyards with areas of unfer- life on earth. It includes all the living sure on the natural environments that such as the Wildlife Trusts’ Living going on – come along to an event tilised and unsprayed grasslands still things we share our planet with: all support the greatest biodiversity. Landscapes initiative to restore and and experience for yourself the in- rich in wild flowers, butterflies, these species of plants and animals Some estimates suggest as many as recreate ecological infrastructure. credible richness of this special place.

LENDING A HAND: RECORDING NATURE lichens, and like to build up a picture photo library and really enjoy surprising of them in their habitat. I started landlubbers with the amazing animals you can doing this work because I like see just off Norfolk's coast. Our pictures have MARY GHULLAM (below right) is a volunteer child I beach combed along the being a plant 'detective', appeared in press and print, there are even surveyor for the National Trust at shoreline, went to see the seals wondering what should grow in an finger puppets based on our favourite seaslug! Hall and Sheringham Park: “I work with on Scroby Sands and watched area and whether it does, and We're also county recorders for marine wildlife National Trust foresters, helping with tree the herring drifters in the what has appeared in an area and and would love to hear from anyone with inspections, guided walks and historical harbour – and witnessed the 1953 what has disappeared. I like helping interesting sightings from the coast. The aim of research. A large part of my time is spent floods. to build up the botanical knowledge for Seasearch is to establish a continuing survey of monitoring and carrying out biological surveys, I love to hear the sound of the sea and various locations. Over the years I have the UK's marine wildlife to identify important particularly concentrating on vascular plants the foghorns, far inland. noticed changes in the variety of species on the habitats, vulnerable species, monitor change and bryophytes (mosses, liverworts and My favourite experience is watching and Wells bank as it is increasingly managed. and better understand the effects of hornworts), so the team get a detailed picture hearing the Pinkfoot Geese flying overhead, Lichen is a good pollution indicator and human and natural and influences. The of the biodiversity on the Felbrigg estate. calling to one another against a winter sky. A thankfully there is a good population in this often uncooperative nature of the North I also help with the National Trust’s close second is standing on the Holt- area. I work near Wells and further afield, sea doesn't help as diving is very weather ancient tree survey, which enables ridge with the winter sunlight slanting around north Norfolk. The coast is dependant, but when it's good it's really us to manage the trees and their through the magnificent ancient grey special to me, as long as good. This year our big project is to make a accompanying rich Beeches and realising ones own I’m outdoors, I love it all. I thorough survey of the Sheringham chalk biodiversity. Felbrigg in insignificance. I want the next love the wild plants of the gullies. Once the sea clears we and particular is important both generation to have the chance to coast but adore the heaths our Seasearch volunteers will dive nationally and locally for its experience some of the wonders I best of all.” on it throughout the summer to deadwood invertebrates that have.” survey its extent, features and are dependent on ancient ROB SPRAY (right) and wildlife. It's a big project but will trees. Of special interest is the ERICA GOODE (above right) is an Dawn Watson are SCUBA make a big difference to what is delightful slender or lemon slug, amateur botanist, author (with M. divers who coordinate the known about this area. which feeds on the fungi growing Smith and D. Vick) of three booklets of Wild Marine Conservation Visit around the ancient beeches. Flower Walks in Wells-next-the-Sea: “I've had Society's Seasearch project www.seasearcheast.org.uk The Norfolk coast is in my blood. My great- an interest in wild flowers since girlhood. I've in East Anglia: “We're for more on conservation and grandfather was a Trinity House pilot who died always been interested in wild flowers and the enthusiastic conservation divers www.1townhouses.co.uk for pictures, guiding a ship into Yarmouth; as a very small interaction between them and mosses and who have built up a big marine diving and information National Trust, Mary Groombridge, Seasearch Mary Groombridge, National Trust, NORFOLK COAST GUARDIAN 2010 A SPECIAL PLACE 5

Discovering our sea’s secret garden

Close to the shore lies a hidden wildlife world.

ost people would not expect the shallow murky waters of the North Sea along the Norfolk Mcoast to be of great importance for marine wildlife. In fact nothing could be fur- ther from the truth, writes David North. The coastline supports very significant breeding colonies of both grey and common seals – the presence of these top predators in significant numbers is of course a good indica- tion of how rich our Norfolk inshore waters are. Equally the internationally important breed- ing numbers of seabirds such as sandwich terns on Scolt Head island and as well as smaller, but still significant, numbers of breeding common and little terns point to good feeding grounds offshore. The closest most of us will get to this world unless we are divers, is exploring the shore at low . Rocky intertidal sites like West provide a hint of how rich, diverse and totally amazing some our local marine wildlife species can be. Norfolk’s marine habitats include:

CHALK REEFS AND GULLIES Much of the seabed off our coast is flat and (see page 11 for details of the Acorn Club). sandy but the chalk reefs between Weybourne, Sheringham and West Runton provide a differ- ent and rich habitat for marine life from Flutter down to Holkham coralline algae and red seaweeds to sponges, el- egant dahlia anemones, several crab species, and From natterjack toads to breeding marsh Foreman. Catherine joins Natural both squat lobster and common lobsters. An harriers, butterflies to England (who manage the NNR) idea of the diversity of these chalk gullies rare plants that thrive will be planning great events and can be had by visiting the shore at on the dunes, this sum- fun ways for children to get out and West Runton at low tide. This mer is the ideal time to enjoy the wild spaces at special area is the only intertidal find out about nature at Holkham whilst learn- chalk rocky shore between Holkham National Na- ing more about the Yorkshire and Kent. ture Reserve as part special wildlife that lives of the celebrations there. SHIPWRECKS for the Inter- Check notices at the The Norfolk coast is particu- national Year key entrances to the Na- larly rich in sunken wrecks – of Biodiversity, tional Nature Reserve there are probably hundreds in total writes Victoria Francis. from May onwards These wrecks aren’t just of historic in- Children and grownups will get the chance for details of all the ac- terest but over time have become marine bio- to have fun and learn more about the reserve tivities planned for the diversity hot-spots supporting a huge range of and its creatures like these common blue butter- summer season. Further information will also species – shoals of fish, beautiful sea slugs, flies (pictured above) and what they can do to be available at naturalengland.org.uk (search colourful sea anemones and many species of help protect it. for Holkham NNR). crustaceans. One of these wrecks lies just off the Holkham is one of the most popular desti- Victoria Francis is Natural England’s NWT nature reserve and at low nations on the coast and this year will be better Reserves Manager, Holkham & Scolt Head tide just a stone’s throw off Cley beach parts of

Photo: Michael Rooney than ever thanks to the arrival of Catherine Island National Nature Reserves. the wreck break the waters surface providing a convenient perch for cormorants. The Vera was sunk during the First World War, beached first and Spray Rob Dawn Watson/Seasearch FACTFILE: FIND OUT MORE ABOUT COASTAL NATURE to allow its crew to escape and now rests some Marine magic: (from top to bottom) Facelina auriculata on the wreck of the Rosalie at Have fun at one of NWT’s marine events, Take care of the seals: view them from the 50 metres offshore. Weybourne; a velvet swimming crab snacks on from rockpooling at West Runton to a wild dunes or a boat – it’s the safest option and a snake pipefish on the wreck of the Vera at walk at Blakeney Point. More details on page you’ll see the animals behaving naturally, safe MUSSEL BEDS AND SABELARIA REEFS Cley; violet sea slug on the Vera; a luckier 20. NWT Cley visitor centre provides from the threat of human disturbance. Give Most of the seabed off Norfolk is composed of snake pipefish; dahlia anemone. information about Norfolk’s marine wildlife. them lots of space - stay well away, especially constantly shifting sand and gravel, but there are in the breeding season (November-January). some areas where animals such as mussels and Help decide which marine areas to protect. If the mothers are disturbed then, they Sabelaria worms have bound the sediments to- such as starfish and sunstars which have a nurs- The Net Gain project has been set up to abandon the pups, putting them in great gether, forming a stable habitat. A good exam- ery area here, and also scavengers, such as identify sites for marine conservation, thanks danger of attack from other seals. ple of this is a huge mussel bed (at least 2km whelks and lots of big hermit crabs. Lots of to the Marine and Coastal Access Bill which If you want to do more, become a seal long) lying just off the coast at . The weird and wonderful animals, such as antenna became law last November. They want input warden and protect seals at pupping time – sand here is completely covered in edible mus- hydroids, hornwrack and unusual sea slugs find from all those interested – check out contact Natural England for details. sels and sea squirts, which form a stable plat- a niche amongst the mussels. www.netgainmcz.org www.naturalengland.org.uk form for all kinds of animals to move in. The David North is the Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s mussels also attract huge numbers of predators, Education Manager. 6 A CARED FOR PLACE NORFOLK COAST GUARDIAN 2010

t’s not everyday that you With a little help from our... get the chance to help someone fulfil a lifetime If you love this place and would like to give some of your time to help look “I ambition,” says Colin after it, then the Friends of the Norfolk Coast is for you. Fenn, one of the RSPB’s band of Join the The volunteer group is made up of people who live or spend time in the volunteers at its Titchwell Marsh re - area, are passionate about it, and want to keep it special. serve. Colin has volunteered for the As a Friend, you will share your ideas, experience and knowledge with last three years and really enjoys his others at regular get-togethers, and get involved in activities and projects work there. on behalf of the Norfolk Coast Partnership. This year, depending on your “I lead guided walks and recently interests you might like to take part in: we were lucky enough to see a bit - volunteer • geology surveys tern just twenty feet from the hide in • fixed point photographic monitoring full view.” For a lady on his walk, it • helping out at events was the fulfilment of a lifetime ambi - • contributing material to the website and publications like this one. tion. “I was nearly as thrilled as the Norfolk Coast Partnership community officer Kate Dougan supports the lady and got a real buzz from helping group. She said: "The Friends is a growing group of people, but we'd like her!” army more members so we can do even more. Membership is completely free of Colin is just one of a whole posse charge, and you don't need certain qualifications or experience - all you of volunteers without whom the need is enthusiasm and a love for the coast." RSPB reserve simply would not Volunteers are the lifeblood of "It's a chance to meet like-minded people from across the area, to exist. discover some of its wide variety of landscapes and stories - and to share Titchwell Marsh RSPB nature re - many of the Norfolk Coast’s your perspective." serve is five-miles/8 km east of Hun - For more information, see norfolkcoastaonb.org.uk – go to stanton on the A149 and is easily partners. Dave Hawkins outlines Community and Living - Friends of the Norfolk Coast. accessed by car or on the Coasthop - per bus service between King’s Lynn just how much they do for one and Cromer. The bus actually stops t s u r right outside the reserve entrance. reserve, RSPB Titchwell. T

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LENDING A HAND: OUT TO SEA a Big skies, a fabulous sandy beach, n o i

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Though the staff work hard to w manage the reserve for conservation and visitors, they are easily outnum - bered by over forty volunteers who help on the reserve from all ages and backgrounds. A common misconcep - tion is that you have to be a bird ex - Fishermen at Brancaster Harbour. pert to volunteer at the reserve, but Titchwell’s volunteers have a range BEN SOUTHERLAND , 29, is a advantages of letting people who of skills. moorings advisor for the National really care about the area have a Take Emma Cuthbertson, who Titchwell is home to one of the UK’s rarest breeding birds, the bittern. Trust’s Brancaster Local say in how its run.” has been volunteering for the RSPB Committee: “I work closely with for the past twelve months. “I enjoy started to volunteer, the reserve was hungry areas of the reserve is the National Trust wardens and all of MIKE BARNARD (below) is a working outside in such a special completely different. There was no shop, which is always on the lookout the local interest groups and watchkeeper for the National place. I get a real thrill from knowing shop or café and it was a busy day if for an extra pair of hands. Helen individuals, helping to generate Coastwatch Institution at their income through moorings, which in Wells-next-the-Sea lookout: “I was I am putting something back into we got more than a dozen cars on the Lodge is typical of the shop volun - turn help the management of passing the lookout soon after I conservation for future generations to car park!” teers. A keen singer and artist in her Brancaster Staithe Harbour. My moved to the area and read with enjoy. The work is so varied, there is Things are completely different spare time, Helen started volunteer - main job is collecting and banking surprise that it was run by never a chance to get bored!” Emma, now. The reserve has a shop where ing on the reserve almost five years mooring fees, but I also help to sort volunteers. Invited to 'come in and a geography graduate, is hoping that you can buy a wide range of sou - ago. “I now spend two days a week out any enquiries or problems look', I wanted to be involved in volunteering on the flagship reserve venirs, books and bird feeding and helping in the shop and really look people may have about moorings in this valuable community and will be the first step towards a career even a café where you can get a hot forward to helping customers and the harbour. I was born and bred in safety work and underwent training in conservation. “In the time I have snack and drink. Despite his senior sharing a joke with my new col - Brancaster Staithe and make my which is offered to all volunteers. been with the RSPB I have learned years, Mike volunteers at the reserve leagues. The whole reserve has a real living from the coast and sea as a The National Coastwatch so many different skills including safe four times a week carrying out a feel good factor.” fisherman. Growing up, the freedom Institution was set up after the use of chainsaw and quad bikes not range of activities from technical stuff Site manager Robert Coleman, of playing and exploring the government shut down HM to mention taking part in nationally (that training again!) like checking says “Whatever your experience marshes was like having a huge and Coastguard lookouts in 1996. important bird counts and census salinities of the marsh to sharing his in life we can probably make mysterious back garden. I love how Wells-next-the-Sea lookout has work.” passion for the reserve with visi - good use of your skills, you cer - many old fashioned industries still been open for four years and Paul Eele, warden at the reserve, tors on the information desk. tainly don’t have to be a bird ex - take place along this unspoilt operates seven days a week, 365 usually has a team of three conserva - One of the most volunteer- pert. Whether you are interested coastline, in the same way as they days of the year. Our primary tasks tion volunteers to help with day-to- in volunteering indoors, helping did in the generations before, are to ‘spot, plot and report’, to day conservation and land Emma Cuthbertson in the shop, café or offices, out - interacting well with the ever help protect swimmers, windsurfers, management on the reserve. “Our doors on the land or showing increasing holiday industry. For me weekend sailors, fishermen, water- checks a bird feeder volunteers are an integral part of the people birds, we can probably this coastline is special because it’s skiers and anyone who uses the near the visitor centre. team. We get so much from them, we Photo: Dave Hawkins find a role that suits you whether one of the few areas which have not beach and Wells Harbour, which is changed much over the years. I still a working port. As the feel it is important to repay their ef - it’s for just a few hours or a whole think all areas of the coastline have watchkeepers point out, “It's fun at forts by investing in them as people day a week or more! If you are in - had to change slightly to cope with the sea... but dangers lurk!” The and we make sure they get all terested then why not give Titchwell an increase in visitors scene changes with every visit, the training necessary to en - a call?” during the spring and but the most recent able them to go on and suc - RSPB Titchwell Marsh Nature summer months. significant activities have ceed in conservation.” Reserve 01485 210779. For But due to the been preparations for Emma, 22 years old, has information about other volunteering hard work of local building windfarms out been volunteering for just opportunities in wider East Anglia committees, these at sea, including twelve months. However, please see www.rspb.org.uk/ e g

changes have deepening the harbour d age is no barrier to vol - volunteering or contact Annie Sadler, i r been kept very and channel and b unteering! Mike Barrett, Volunteering Development Officer m o sympathetic to the installation of new o a sprightly 86 year old, is on 01603 697504. r G area, taking all pontoons for service boats.

y the reserve’s longest serv - Dave Hawkins is the RSPB’s r interested parties into The lookout has been a Visitor and Publicity officer, M ing volunteer with over

:

consideration - just one of the upgraded to meet these changes.” o t twenty five years experience at Titchwell Marsh and Snettisham o h

P Titchwell. “When I first Nature Reserves. NORFOLK COAST GUARDIAN 2010 A CARED FOR PLACE 7

LENDING A HAND: WORKING TOGETHER

ROBERT SIMPSON (below) is a two beach cleans a year – one in student on a placement as an April, one in September. I put lots assistant learning officer of posters round the village and at the National just ask people to turn up Trust’s Brancaster and give a hand – we Millennium need plenty of hands Activity Centre: on deck. About 20 “I work with other people come along. learning officers and I open up my beach help to prepare for hut, ask people to groups that stay with wear sturdy gloves, us and help staff with give out bin bags and water sports, outdoor we work for a couple of activities, field studies and hours while the tide is out, just environmental education. I enjoy cleaning as much as we can for a helping children understand hundred yards in each direction. environmental issues, such as the North Norfolk District Council is effects of global warming and the very helpful, supplying litter pickers impact it has on our coastline here and picking up the full bags. We in Norfolk. Basically, talking about get lots of polystyrene, plastic off life changing effects, but getting it boats, rope, crates, bottles and over to others in a fun, interesting cans, shoes, tyres, barbed wire… In way. The coast is special to me as the autumn we join forces with the it’s a great teaching resource for us Marine Conservation Society’s to use with groups that visit the Beachwatch scheme, which logs all centre. For example we’re able to the different kinds of litter for take children into the muddy creeks national research. It’s a wonderful and show them sinking sand. job done when it’s finished; it does Explaining coastal processes in a make a difference. is safe way means that they are such a lovely place and it struck learning through a physical activity, me it’s such a simple thing to do. giving them self confidence and a It’s just making a small difference positive experience. I enjoy seeing but if you all get together you can children coming into their own clear a larger area. Because it’s outside of school and benefiting clean already it’s a small job, and from a different style of teaching, do-able. But it makes such a which they can relate to. My difference. Little things are so favourite part of the coastline has to important in your own community be from Brancaster to Wells-next-to- and we all benefit.” the-sea, as it is very varied. I enjoy For information on walking along the coastal path Beachwatch or Adopt A Beach through the dunes and woodland check out mscuk.org trying to identify many of the different trees and wildlife species that this area has to offer.” Children being shown birds on reserve (above); volunteer Mike Barrett sharing a joke with staff member Richard Burton For more information check out (below left); site manger Robert Coleman (below right) is always on the lookout for volunteers. Photos: www.rspb-images.com nationaltrust.org.uk/brancaster

GILL HOYES (above) organises a twice-yearly beach clean at Mundesley: “It started because I was on the parish council and it came up in the conversation that they really needed people to get out there and do things. I’m a hands- on person and it seemed like something that needed doing. I organise it so that other people can get involved, and do Mary Groombridge, National Trust 8 A SUSTAINABLE PLACE NORFOLK COAST GUARDIAN 2010

Tales from our seafaring past Robert Gladden, The resourceful nature of coastal folk lifeboat as well as the seafaring tradition of coxswain. Sheringham – and many other fasci - nating tales of its past – are revealed in a book by local man Peter Brooks. Lavishly illustrated with original photo - graphs, the Book of Sheringham both brings to life and records the commu - nity. Personalities such as that of Willie Long (1859-1946) (pictured right), the fisherman who first went to sea at the age of 11, lived (like so many Sheringham folk at that time) (Clockwise from above left) Olive Edis, pioneering photographer, nationally famous and based at Sheringham, who for a while in Grimsby and then took many pictures of the fishermen including this one of Willie Long, fisherman and preacher; Grandfather Craske; returned to Norfolk to a new John Craske, fisherman and artist; Tom Barnes Cooper, lifeboat coxswain. and eventually, nationally fa - mous, role. “drunks, ragged down-and-outs and ham folk are known, were often fish - Shrimp, Bumshie, Hot, Donny Ha Complete with Norfolk ac - a wide cross-section of ’s ermen, and it was – and is – their Ha, Stoner and Old Boots – to name cent and dialect, and dressed as a poor and vulnerable” following him custom to give sons the same Chris - but a few. fisherman, Willie began to during his 10-week mission. tian names as their fathers. This gave The Book of Sheringham; Twixt Sea preach. He was invited to Lon - The book is packed with fascinat - rise to a fine range of nicknames: and Pine by Peter Brooks ISBN 978 1 don, where he was popular, with ing details. ‘Shannockers’ as Shering - Squinter, Bounce, Spitfire, Click, 84114 944 8 Halsgrove £19.99

Looking for funding? Support is available for projects on the coast. Two local businesses with tips on how to Enjoy your stay the Net some cash sustainable way! The Norfolk Coast Sustainable Development requirement for all projects to respect the balance Fund supports projects that benefit the communities between growth and the outstanding natural resources There’s lots you can do to and environment of the area for future generations. that exist in this special environment. Projects need to minimise your impact on the GREEN HOLIDAYS ARE MORE Since its inception in 2005 it has supported more include an element of collaboration, be in the area, according to two local FUN! FIVE TOP TIPS than 50 projects, including work with reedcutters (see designated area, and be a new or enhanced activity. accommodation providers opposite). Last year one of the projects saw Norfolk The first project to receive funding under this who have gone green for TEST RUN a new technology – choose s their guests. 1 omewhere using renewable resources – like County Council’s Environmental and Outdoor scheme was submitted by the Wells and so lar, wind, hydro, groundsource or woodchip Learning Team introducing 50 young people to the Light Railway. They were awarded £38,300 to support At Cranmer Country power. special stretch of coastline around Wells-next-the-Sea. a new steam engine, providing additional income and Cottages near Fakenham, G energy for their latest ET FIT and experience more by seeing how Wells Field Studies Centre lead teacher Nell Seal securing the future of the railway. ma cottages is supplied solely 2 ny miles you can walk in total during your said: “We invited children from two schools to come to Funding is available between now and holiday. the coast for a three day residential visit based at Wells December 2013. For more information about from renewable energy sources. Proprietor Lynne EAT FRESH Field Studies Centre, allowing them to enjoy and involvement in the Local Action Group or and discover new delicacies by Johnson has attained the 3buying your provisions from local suppliers understand the area. They also got thoroughly muddy as funding opportunities, see (see page 17 f Green Tourism Business or our Local Products Guide) we explored a small area of !” www.ruralhub.info/lag. Alternatively you can Scheme’s Gold Award: “So far FREE Following on from their residential experiences the contact the local facilitator Carol Allen at WHEEL and feel the wind in your hair we have installed a 20KW 4by cycling (see page 14 for some ideas) children returned to school where they were joined by [email protected]. wind turbine, two ground EX two artists who worked with them to design mosaic PLORE more by using the bus and leaving source heat pumps, and a the car a tiles, depicting some of the various plants and animals Norfolk’s Coastal Heritage will help Norfolk's 5 t home (see page 15 for circular heat recovery system and Coasthopper/Coast Path walks) that they had discovered such as little egret, plover, crab, coastal communities prepare for the impact coastal solar energy for the pool and barnacles and bladderwrack. change will have on their heritage and adapt to coastal cottage water heating.” The children have left their mark: “The tiles are change now and in the future, by encouraging active “We encourage our guests to join the boiler and explain how it works.” now in a new outdoor seating area alongside raised investigations of coastal heritage. Initially the project us in our sustainability and carbon All guests are handed an sensory herb beds and a growing area, which will will focus on ; part-way through it saving efforts, with on-site recycling information file with a ‘Leave the support community activities, such as gardening, will widen its reach to other communities on the and composting, support for our Car at Home’ section: “It has plenty local community nature reserve and cooking and bird feeding.” Norfolk Coast. The project will arrange and support a of days out starting from by managing their heating and Find out more: Norfolk County Council’s series of heritage events during 2010 and early 2011, Weybourne without having to use water use in a responsible way Environmental and Outdoor Learning team with local communities deciding themselves the the car. Lovely walks of various during their stay with us.” www.norfolk.gov.uk /outdoorlearning; investigations they wish to be involved with. distances surround us. With the At Home Farm Holiday Cottages, Sustainable Development Fund The project is part of North Norfolk fantastic Coasthopper bus service Weybourne, Sally Middleton and her www.norfolkcoastaonb.org.uk District Council's Coastal Pathfinder. linking us all the way from King’s husband Paul encourage guests to For more information, contact David Lynn through to Cromer leaving the eat local - and lead by example! “We Investing in Norfolk Coast and Broads has Robertson 01362 869276 car at home for a day is really easy love our local food; Mussels, £3.8 million of funding being delivered for visitors. The file also suggests Cromer Crab, Blue cheese, through a Local Action Group made up Coast Alive has 26 partners from locations places to buy local foods and to name just a few!” supporting our local businesses. from representatives from the private all around the North Sea. The They too have invested in Weybourne is a fishing village and and public sectors with an project aims to help people to renewable power sources: “Our guests can buy their seafood in the interest in their local area. use coastal paths and outdoor biggest green investment has been village – food miles can’t get any Support is available for facilities for recreation and the REKA wood chip boiler to heat lower than that!” agribusiness development fitness. the indoor swimming pool and two and diversification, water If you think you can use the cottages. The fuel bills have Cranmer Country Cottages distribution and usage, coastal paths to help reduced but more importantly it has 01328 823135 sustainable rural preserve our natural and reduced our carbon footprint. We norfolk-luxury-cottages.co.uk tourism, cultural heritage, and reach use wood chip from local suppliers. Home Farm Holiday Cottages sustainable local new users of all ages, contact Our visitors are really interested and 01263 588334 food and rural businesses John Jones at Norfolk County Council: Paul is often asked to show guests weybourne-holiday-cottages.co.uk development. There is an overarching [email protected] NORFOLK COAST GUARDIAN 2010 A SUSTAINABLE PLACE 9

Sharing our common good Peter Rushmer reports two get togethers with a focus on local community management – sustainable methods that have stood the test of time.

ommunity management was landowners, managers, advisers, au- the subject of an evening of thorities and others all working to- illustrated and interactive gether in partnership. talks at Brancaster Staithe It is because of this approach, and

C Rushmer Peter Village Hall presented by common not in spite of it, that the rich mix of rightholders and local reedbed man- landscape and wildlife interests for Harvesting reed at Brancaster. agers. An audience of more than 60 which the area is renowned locally, people enjoyed fascinating explana- nationally and internationally has It can compete with other good knocking and tying bundles, but they tween the management scheme and tions of the history, variety and exer- been preserved and will be in the fu- quality and imported reed, though later also held an out-door drop-in those who live and work in the area, cise of common rights locally, ture, he said. “People work at keeping the economics are tight.” event at Brancaster reed beds. This including some who enjoy recre- followed by a focus on reedbeds and the commons the way they are and So it was that the North Norfolk was attended by 20 people, who were ational activities around the coast. reedbed management. how they are is a result of the way Reedcutters Association was set up in able to talk to the reedbed managers This brings their experience, knowl- Richard Seppings, chair of the they have been worked for many 2004 to market their product more and reed cutters about all aspects of edge and initiative together to help Scolt Head and District Common years. The character of the commons effectively as a collective, in compe- their work. They were also shown a safeguard internationally protected Rightholders Association, explained - for example the reedbeds, and their tition with foreign imports. This As- good stand of reed and a demonstra- wildlife and habitats and encourage that common rights had been exer- contribution to the environment - is sociation secured a grant from the tion of the self propelled mechanical sustainable use, at the same time as cised over centuries by people who not an accident.” Norfolk Coast Partnership’s Sustain- cutter, which also bunches the reed recognising traditional activities and either acquired them through buying Gary Mears, reedcutter, common able Development Fund (see oppo- ready for combing, tying and knock- local characteristics that help make local property to which they were at- rightholder and longshoreman fol- site) for state-of-the-art mechanical ing, after which it is ready for loading the area so special. It is chaired by tached, or by families handing them lowed, saying the saltwater reedbeds cutting gear which has since made onto pallets, carting, stacking and Mark Randell local mussel fisherman down through the generations. in the area had been a mess when he the job less back breaking and much marketing. and reedbed manager. The events Rights include grazing, wildfowl- took them over by agreement with more viable, so much so that their Both events were organised by the were sponsored by The Wash and ing and fishing, the taking of sea- the common rightholders over 24 experience is now also being sought North Norfolk Coast (SAC/EMS) North Norfolk Coast EMS Manage- weed, shingle, reeds, samphire and years ago: “They needed a lot of hard by conservation bodies and many Advisory Group (NNCAG). Set up ment Scheme and the Norfolk Coast many other things. All are based on work, including clearing and burn- others. All these factors make a con- in 1996, the group plays a vital role Partnership with invaluable support not taking more than is needed and ing, and the first crops were very tribution to the environment, the in the progression of The Wash and from many others including George on leaving something for the future; poor, but they are dramatically im- local economy and to helping pre- North Norfolk EMS Management Parry secretary to the Scolt Head the principle of sustainability. They proved these days.” serve local traditional activities and Scheme after this area received inter- and District Common Right cover the only large area of common “This reed is durable, has a thatch- the reed when pelleted also has po- national recognition as a marine Spe- Holders. marsh land in the UK (1746.6ha). ing life of 70/80 years, has good ther- tential as an alternative fuel source. cial Area of Conservation and Peter Rushmer is project manager They are preserved and managed in mal qualities, is great for birds like At the evening event Gary and his European Marine Site (see for the Wash and North Norfolk a balanced way by active participation bearded tit, reed warbler and bittern colleague Richard showed examples www.esfjc.co.uk/ems.htm) Coast European Marine Site between common rightholders, and is also attractive in its own right. of good and bad reed, of combing, The NNCAG provides a link be- Management Scheme.

LENDING A HAND: IN A WORKING LANDSCAPE marshes towards Salthouse. I started this work because my father Stanley Webster was in the Merchant Navy and then settled at Cley RICHARD SEPPINGS (below) is vice-chair of protected and used. The area is a holiday because he liked water and loved the coast. I the National Trust’s local management venue, has several designations represented started out bait digging and reed cutting but committee, the Brancaster Commons by a variety of acronyms, there are landowner went into mussel growing because I preferred Committee: “This is a partnership representing interests and agendas to consider, yet at the it. Although there are more rules and registered common rightholders, parish and end of the day it’s still a working village. The regulations to do with health and hygiene, I district councils, fisherman and local user Norfolk coast is just the most wonderful place belong to the North Norfolk Advisory Group so groups who have a stake in the National Trust’s in the world, with so many different moods. My I do have a say.” management at Brancaster. A local favourite part has to be Brancaster Bay. I love management committee has been in place the remoteness here. I love the skies and the WILLIAM ‘CAPTAIN WILLIE’ SEARLE (below) here since the Trust acquired the land for the marshes, and of course I love its history; inherited a love for commercial fishing and nation in 1967. By working with local people it the generations who have made their livings boats from his father Geoffrey, who founded helps make these special areas so from the sea and the marshes and those who Searles Leisure Resort, Hunstanton: “I became distinctive. There is a fine line to be walked have exercised their common rights here in the a commercial fisherman, fishing out of when we look to manage an area like this; past. It’s good to see the local community Hunstanton in the winter and returning to run preserving it exactly as it is isn't feasible, there having input and being taken into account; we more than that much profit in one day selling the Seatours business in the summer, and are many conflicting interests, and everyone have a seat at the table on influential local jeans. For me, what is special about the coast eventually left the fishing industry to operate wants to have their say. I just want to make committees where some of the decisions about is all the new people coming into my shop - I the pleasure boat business full time. As there is sure that the people, who have made the future of the region are made. There like meeting new people so I love that. My no harbour in Hunstanton I acquired an ex the marshes what they are, still have their is an increased awareness of just favourite experience on the coast is to Vietnam War American Amphibious Vehicle – rightful input into how they develop in the how important the role of local go up by the weather station on the the ‘Wash Monster’ – to ferry passengers to my future. This is my chance to play a part in people is, and has been in the cliffs. I enjoy the beauty of nature, boat the Sealion, a vessel shaping the way the coast here is looked after, past.” the views and watching the sea.” capable of carrying 60 passengers to view the SAJID ‘SANJAY’ LATIF JOHNNY ‘THE KID’ WEBSTER colony of common seals on (right) is a shopkeeper in (above) is a mussel fisherman at the sandbanks of the Sheringham: “I work at and Morston: “I grow Wash. I also use the Wash Sheringham and at Fakenham mussels; the tradition was handed Monster for full and Aylsham Markets. I love my down from my father to me, I’ve commentary tours job, and have built up my business been doing it since I was 15. I like the educating visitors from scratch since 1991. When I came fresh air and freedom, although sometimes on the nature from Pakistan (Punjab) I used to work six days there’s not so much freedom now because of and history a week, 12 hour shifts for £95. I was 'red tape'. My favourite place is Stiffkey of the encouraged to start out in business and made Beach to Wells, the East Bank at Cley and the wash.” National Trust, Mary Groombridge, Searles Mary Groombridge, National Trust, 10 AN INSPIRING PLACE NORFOLK COAST GUARDIAN 2010

Picture perfect Karen Bethell talks to some of Norfolk’s hundreds of artists to find out what makes the coast such an inspiration.

he Norfolk coastline has equally attractive to artists is the been providing inspiration coastline’s abundance of flora and to artists for hundreds of fauna – from the sea lavender of the T years, from Robert Dixon, salt-marshes, to the famous seals of who painted Cromer seascapes at the Blakeney Point. turn of the 18th century and natural- Sheringham-based Brian Lewis, ist Francis Southgate, who drew the whose hugely popular paintings fea- crab fishermen of his home town of turing the coastline’s harbours, boats Wells in the early 1900s, to the and beaches are on show in galleries Prince of Wales, who was given ad- all over the county, has a soft spot for vice on painting in watercolours seagulls – and seals. from Norfolk’s own Edward Seago as Surrey-born Brian first came to a youngster. Norfolk in the early 1970s, spending With its unspoilt beaches, open his time on Burnham Overy Staithe’s skies and unpredictable seas, the area marshes, walking the creeks and is still attracting artists from far and swimming. wide, with many of them making a “A friend had a crab boat from permanent home here. which we fished for mackerel on hot “It is the sea, the sky, the amazing summer days. We looked back to seasonal changes and the atmosphere, shore through a heat haze pierced by there is so much emotion in it,” said terns diving for sand eels, at what Norfolk-born Maureen Cherry. “I could have been a Mediterranean know the area pretty well and I think scene,” Brian explained. artists see something special here and Paintings by Brian include coastal grasp it – whether it’s just a feeling scenes at Cromer, Cley, Wells and or the detail.” Brancaster, as well as a series of seal Well-known artist and author pictures with a comic twist – one of Alwyn Crawshaw who, with his wife which shows a group of seals setting Above: A detail June, has made eight TV series on out by boat to visit sun-worshipping from Waiting painting, moved to Norfolk 12 years holidaymakers at Blakeney Point. for the Tide ago. “The obvious thing is the skies,“ “As an artist, I have been so in- by Brian Lewis. he said. “But another reason I like to spired by everything around me that Top right: paint the Norfolk coast is because I haven’t stopped painting since I Detail from there is just a wonderful atmosphere moved here and have not made it Crab Boats, about it. I wouldn’t say it is wild, but back to Surrey – not that I should Sheringham there is a natural feel to the whole ever want to,” he said. by Alwyn area in that it hasn’t been taken over North Norfolk Artspace aims to Crawshaw. by bricks and mortar - it is just mud, raise the profile of visual arts and water and boats.” provide exhibiting opportunities for The coast has been a recurring artists working in the area. A theme of the hundreds of paintings comprehensive resource for artists Alwyn has produced in a career span- and art-lovers, the North Norfolk ning more than 50 years - and in the Artspace website includes 30-plus books he has written on art. information on galleries, events, “It is all just lovely, although I must exhibitions and art-themed news, as admit I particularly like Morston well as the profiles of more than 60 quay and the beaches at Mundesley local artists. For more information, and Wells,” he said. visit www.northnorfolkartspace.co.uk Norfolk’s windmills, bathers and or phone 01263 823633. boats are popular subjects of paint- Karen Bethell is North Norfolk ings, sculptures and photographs, but Artspace founder and local reporter. NORFOLK COAST GUARDIAN 2010 AN INSPIRING PLACE 11

sional carers and their clients. An annual general meeting of supporters elects the committee Open house members - artists and arts enthusi-

asts. Mary Groombridge John Millwood (pictured below) with a personal The project is always open to new ideas. In 2008 I was given the view of what can happen when people get opportunity to devise a sculpture together to share art in an inspiring place. trail with twin purposes: to explore the natural beauty of our part of Norfolk, inland as well as right on he quality of the annual not a church project but a partner- the coast, and to show contempo- exhibitions of Norfolk ship was established. This gave the rary outdoor sculptures - perma- contemporary art at Salt- NNEP the use of a striking build- nent, biodegradable or temporary T house on the north coast ing, beautifully set on the coastal - at certain locations. With 100 has made them a premier art event ridge. The space is inspiring and waymarks it runs from Salthouse to for Norfolk. challenging and noted for its light. Kelling and Kelling Heath, and Last summer well over 7,500 The NNEP was able to say to Holt. visitors were recorded in 31 days. artists “make a work you have al- This is a testimony to what can be ways wanted to make – perhaps This is a testimony done by volunteers. And it is a much bigger, perhaps designed to to what can be done testimony to the valuable role the hang up in the air, perhaps exper- by volunteers. And it arts have in Norfolk: providing imental, certainly new.” wider opportunities for leisure in- The nature of the exhibitions, is a testimony to the terests for all ages; opening up op- the qualities of the venue and the valuable role the portunities for the young; and purpose of the project have made arts have in Norfolk attracting more tourists to spend it possible to attract leading names money locally. with a Norfolk connection such as Crucial to making the idea a re- The North Norfolk Exhibition Louis de Bernieres, Roger Lloyd ality has been generous sponsorship Project started when artists and Pack and Richard Mabey for and practical hands-on help from Brenda Seymour, the Arts Officer evening events in the heart of the Norfolk Country Cottages. Tom of North Norfolk District Coun- exhibition. Ellis, their Training and Develop- cil, identified that the vibrant From the beginning ment Manager has said: “As a contemporary art of the the project has run Norfolk family company we are county needed a North art workshops, delighted to be involved. We Norfolk venue where it some modestly bring around 15,000 people to the could be shown prop- priced, most free, county each year, so it makes sense erly. Salthouse Church for local people to get involved with a great project was chosen and the ini- and visitors to the that celebrates both art and the tial exhibition in 2001 area, for local beautiful Norfolk countryside.” was a success. schools, youth This year's Salthouse exhibition Salthouse Church groups and families runs from 8 July to 8 August and is still a working and, in recent has the title LANDMARK. It is church. The years, for the tenth - and the Project looks Balance – In response to our earth’s fragility by Colin Miller, on show in the back NNEP is profes- forward to the future. garden of the Dun Cow, Salthouse, and part of the sculpture trail.

LENDING A HAND: TO INSPIRE AND CREATE

JENNY BRANDISH (below with her dog Cley, Wells, Holkham, Sheringham, Titchwell, Harvey) volunteers for the National Trust at Snettisham and Kelling Heath. I love to watch Sheringham Park: “I assist with everything birds and to photograph them. I look for from school visits to the new Acorn Club for seasonal visitors, for example Brent toddlers and parents. I saw the poster and Pink-footed Geese in 'volunteers needed' in the park whilst out winter along with walking my dog about a year ago. I went Brambling, and if we are along and was made to feel really welcome lucky also Snow Bunting, and that my experience would be of great Shore Lark. Marsh value to the team. It’s so rewarding, Harriers are here seeing children having an enjoyable all year but learning experience outdoors and particularly getting close to nature. exciting at love the the roughness of because I know it so well and enjoy seeing the In the past year, I have seen the Cley in the Cley with the shingle and changes in season, especially the winter when newly transformed bower area summer. the rough north sea, the you can feel you have the place to yourself, develop to provide some exciting Different open beaches of Holme and especially up towards Holme. I can get onto new facilities for families at the parts of the Titchwell and the big skies.” the beach quickly from where I live without park. And I was delighted to be county are good using the car.” asked to help and for particular birds, JULIA RAFFERTY (above) is an contribute with the for example vagrant artist, photographer and adult education JAMES MCCALLUM (below left) is a wildlife activities for the newly warblers and flycatchers in tutor: “I started as a learning support officer in artist from Wells: “I have a long interest in formed Acorn Club. A great Wells woods. Living near Wells Library and found that lots of people natural history and drawing. It's a privilege and new group for mums and the sea gives me fantastic came in asking about camera skills, so built up a great opportunity to be able to do this work. tots, Sheringham Park is a opportunities to watch from two hour courses to five week, then ten I am based outdoors. I was born in Wells and fantastic meeting place seabirds, some resident week and now thirty week courses right have travelled a lot but home drew me back. I and the group is already and some passing by. I throughout the year. I have a passion for appreciate the diverse wildlife and their proving popular with love the water and walking photography and enjoy helping habitats. I'm interested in the local people.” on open beaches. My people develop their skills. I love outdoors - watching and favourite experience is the feeling of complete freedom drawing/painting the behaviour of JOANNA LATHAM the first sound and sight on the coast - out in the open birds and animals including (centre) has been a of the Pink-footed Geese surrounded by sky and the displays and posture. What I love keen birdwatcher and flying over. Barn Owls sounds and smells of the coast. I about the coast is all its aspects of photographer on the quartering the marshes enjoy the peace of being on my natural history, and the light and Norfolk Coast for 25 and fields. Screaming own in the open space with big weather. My favourite places are the years: “I go birding swifts in summer as they views of sea and sky, but also saltmarshes of Wells, and Blakeney throughout North Norfolk, catch food and fly under the seeing the details in plants and smaller Point, where I worked four seasons as a locally on Friary Hills, and also edges of my roof where they nest. I scale things. I love the Hunstanton area warden.” Jamesmccallum.co.uk National Trust, Mary Groombridge National Trust, 14 OUT & ABOUT NORFOLK COAST GUARDIAN 2010

Steve Tutt co-ordinated research for the recently revamped Norfolk Coast cycleway map guide. Here he shares his ride around one of its many loops See so much 1 more from the saddle

he Walsingham and Wells munity with two churches - St ‘explorer’ takes in part of Mary's and All Saints (stunning Last the National 1 and Re - Supper reredos). Taking the T gional 30 routes. The ‘ex - road opposite the Three Horseshoes plorer loops’ provide a basis to either Inn, at the bridge over the Stiffkey (2) follow using the guide or to adapt I pause to admire the views back and explore, with the map showing across the valley and village before adjacent roads. Just to prove that you pedalling my way past Warham can start out from anywhere I set out Camp, which claims to be the best from Langham, and make my way preserved Iron Age Fort in East An - across the wartime Langham airfield glia and on towards Wighton where with its runway, watchtower and All Saints Church forms an impres - iconic training dome still in place sive sight standing on higher ground [www.raflangham.co.uk]. overlooking the river meadows. In Cockthorpe I pass the first of Here, at the junction known as the many 'All Saints' churches I will Copy's Green, the loop meets Na - encounter along this loop (1), enjoy - tional Route 1. The signpost on the ing the views over the coast before green shows me Regional Route 30 dropping downhill into Stiffkey vil - starts on its journey to Cromer and lage. As with many coastal villages Great Yarmouth whilst route 1 heads the A149 coast road is very narrow south through Walsingham and be - here so care is required. Known for yond and west towards King's Lynn. its 'stewkey blues' (cockles), the vil - Joining the latter I pass through lage has a shop, pub, campsite, even Wighton before branching left off an antique lamp shop. Leaving the route 1 to head across the open village back over the I country towards North Creake, the Hire a bike and explore the Holkham estate branch right and climb quite steeply stark openness along this section up towards Warham where again the being compensated by some far Huff & Puff Cycles has joined forces with the Holkham The new hire centre will operate from the courtyard higher ground offers some great reaching views. Just before the B1105 Hall Estate to offer cycle hire at the stately home. at the hall, next to the venue's tearooms, giftshop, panoramic views over the valley. Wells to Fakenham road (locally "It's part of our drive to offer visitors more choice, and bygones museum, will open daily from April 1 to At the Fidder’s Green road junc - called the 'dry road' - for its lack of and cycling is the perfect way to explore the trails October 31 and will be run jointly by Holkham Hall and tion (a bronze age burial mound) I public houses) you pass Crabbs Castle through the deer park which surrounds Holkham Hall," Huff & Puff Cycles. turn right into Warham, a small com - Farm which was supposedly site of a said estates director David Horton-Fawkes. Last summer the cycle business launched the Norfolk Medieval enclosure. You’ll need to It's not just the traffic-calmed routes within the hall Huff & Puff, a series of challenge rides for all abilities take care crossing the B1105 grounds that make for ideal cycling... the entire area has based on the Norfolk Coast Cycleway and covering and I avoid the temptation much to offer, added Sam Weller of Huff & Puff: "There distances of 25, 50 and 100 miles. 2 is a rich choice of quiet lanes and approved tracks It attracted more than 250 riders and is to take place to visit the nearby Real Ale throughout the local area. They include iconic this year on Sunday, June 27. Shop. Passing the Tri - destinations such as Lord Nelson's birthplace at Also new is an event in support of the annual Norfolk umphal Arch of Holkham Burnham Thorpe, Binham Priory, the shrine and narrow Churches Trust ride. Hall south entrance (a ride gauge railway at Little Walsingham, and Wells-next-the- Huff & Puff Cycles has been established for more than for another day as Holkham Sea. eight years and is run by Sam Weller and Ian Bunting. Its welcomes cyclists – see arti - "There is also the Norfolk Coast Cycleway main centre is on-site at the Kelling Heath Holiday Park, cle, right) and make my way (see main article) for the more adventurous which runs near Holt, where one of its most popular rides links with a into North Creake. Entering next to the hall, and links faraway Great Yarmouth with trip on the . the village past the sign for King's Lynn." Details can be found at www.cyclenorfolk.co.uk. Creake Abbey which is open to the public, the ruins are clearly visible. route. Heading towards Waterden I I re-cross the ‘Dry Road’ and cooling splash through one of many Setting off again spot the little church on the hill that enjoy a gentle scenic freewheel fords along this valley – great fun for along lanes I hadn’t is my next reference point. All Saints alongside a small stream down to kids but do watch out as they can be been on before I’m re - is accessed only by foot and I explore with wide views deep and the ground uneven! minded that there is so within (3) – whatever your beliefs across the valley and meadows on this Entering Little Walsingham can be much yet to explore in there’s no doubting the wonderful part of the river Stiffkey. The loop a little like going back in time with

Norfolk. Dreaming history churches bring to the land - now rejoins National route 1 into so much heritage to see. It’s well t

t away with map in scape. After enjoying some much Little Walsingham, and passing North worth calling into the Tourist Infor -

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e pocket I’ve managed needed sustenance while watching a Barsham’s All Saints church on my mation Centre; there are guided

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t to take a wrong turn - quartering barn owl it’s time to move left I am now entering the pilgrim - walks as well. Walsingham is the

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- ing; but no matter, at on. I admire the glory of Waterden age area. For many this area may largest settlement on this route (un -

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o the next junction the Farm’s array of traditional buildings could take up a whole day all on its less you detour into Wells) and has a

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h map is so good it’s as over fields a marsh harrier is busy own but today I take a detour up to wide array of small businesses that P simple to rejoin further along the hunting. Houghton St Giles (4) enjoying a you would expect in a pilgrimage NORFOLK COAST GUARDIAN 2010 OUT & ABOUT 15

Hunstanton (Bus Station) Children’s TV presenter FACTBOX: 3.4 Holme next the Sea (Peddars Way/A149) Jamie Rickers gets to The Norfolk Coast 1:21 Walk time grips with one of the 6.0 4.0 Thornham (Village centre - Orange Tree) trails at Kelling Heath Cycleway 2:22 1:36 Walk time Green Norfolk Holiday Park. 10.1 8.2 4.1 Brancaster (A149/London St) 4:01 3:15 1:38 Walk time 12.3 10.4 6.3 2.4 Burnham Deepdale (Church) Launched: 1998 4:54 4:08 2:31 0:58 Walk time Terrain: Based on public roads, 16.1 14.2 10.2 6.3 4.1 Burnham Overy Staithe (Hero) 6:27 5:41 4:04 2:31 1:38 Walk time mainly inland quiet country 20.4 18.4 14.4 10.5 8.3 4.4 Holkham (Victoria) lanes, often with great views. 8:08 7:22 5:45 4:12 3:19 1:45 Walk time 22.7 20.8 16.7 12.9 10.7 6.7 3.3 Wells next the Sea (Freeman St) Route: King's Lynn to Wighton 9:04 8:18 6:41 5:08 4:15 2:41 1:20 Walk time via National Cycle Network 26.2 24.2 20.2 16.3 14.1 10.2 6.8 3.5 Stiffkey (A149/Greenway) Route 1 (Hull to Harwich, 10:27 9:41 8:04 6:31 5:39 4:04 2:43 1:25 Walk time 28.9 27.0 22.9 19.0 16.8 12.9 9.5 6.3 3.3 Morston (village) signed with red ‘1’); Wighton 11:32 10:46 9:10 7:36 6:44 5:09 3:48 2:30 1:19 Walk time to Cromer via East Anglia 30.3 28.4 24.4 20.5 18.3 14.3 11.0 7.7 4.8 1.9 Blakeney (Westgate/A149) regional route (blue ‘30’ signs); 12:07 11:21 9:44 8:11 7:18 5:44 4:23 3:05 1:54 0:45 Walk time Cromer to Great Yarmouth via 32.6 30.6 26.6 22.7 20.5 16.6 13.2 9.9 7.0 4.1 2.6 (Delicatessen) 13:01 12:15 10:38 9:05 8:12 6:37 5:16 3:58 2:48 1:38 1:01 Walk time ‘Quiet Lanes’ and Broads area. 38.6 36.7 32.7 28.8 26.6 22.6 19.3 16.0 13.1 10.2 8.6 6.1 Weybourne (Ship) Loops and links: signed links 15:27 14:41 13:04 11:31 10:38 9:03 7:42 6:24 5:13 4:04 3:27 2:25 Walk time 41.6 39.7 35.6 31.8 29.6 25.6 22.3 19.0 16.1 13.2 11.6 9.0 3.9 Sheringham (Information Centre) to some villages; and loops 16:38 15:52 14:15 12:42 11:49 10:14 8:54 7:35 6:25 5:15 4:38 3:37 1:34 Walk time using quiet roads and tracks 44.7 42.8 38.8 34.9 32.7 28.8 25.4 22.1 19.2 16.3 14.7 12.2 7.0 3.8 Roman Camp (West Runton village) 17:53 17:07 15:30 13:57 13:04 11:30 10:09 8:50 7:40 6:31 5:53 4:52 2:49 1:31 Walk time Set up by: Norfolk Coast 46.9 45.0 40.9 37.1 34.8 30.9 27.5 24.3 21.3 18.4 16.9 14.3 9.2 6.0 3.9 Cromer (Cadogen Rd) Distance in miles Cycling Initiative, led by 18:45 17:59 16:22 14:49 13:56 12:21 11:00 9:42 8:32 7:22 6:45 5:43 3:40 2:23 1:22 Walk time Walk time in hours and minutes Norfolk Coast Partnership Map guide published: 2000, latest guide reprint: 2009 Stride and ride Guide features: the complete Coasthopper combine to make a the inland villages and town of Norfolk Coast Cycleway on Coast Path and Coasthopper great day out. Try it - it’s is a great Sedgeford, Docking and Holt. Why a single large map, all the – the perfect combination way to see more and create your own not try walking the 3.7 miles from explorer loops can be says Tim Lidstone-Scott. tailor-made circular route. Sedgeford to Holme next the Sea. compared together on the To help you plan your day out we You could pop into the Norfolk reverse and users can compose Now in its 14th year and with more have developed a new mileage chart. Wildlife Trust Ringstead Downs re- their own routes to suit their passengers than ever, the award win- This shows walking distances along serve to marvel at the chalk flora. Oh interests and abilities. All sorts ning Coasthopper bus provides a the trail between bus stops alongside and you pass the excellent Gin Trap of useful info, with a key. great service to people and the envi- an estimate of walking times. pub on this walk! ronment. An amazing 422,000 pas- Walk times are based on an aver- Tim Lidstone-Scott is Norfolk Coast Map guide available: by mail order from Sustrans sengers last year chose to leave their age speed of 2.5 miles per hour and Path and Peddars Way National Trading and Tourist cars at home and travel along the do not allow for lunch or rest stops Trail manager. Information Centres along coast enjoying the view, cutting their so you will need to factor these in. Coasthopper.co.uk the route as well as many carbon and even making new friends! May 24 sees the start of a new nationaltrail.co.uk Thousands of walkers are proving Coasthopper route that provides im- or see Facebook page for latest info. campsites and shops. that the Norfolk Coast Path and the proved access to the Peddars Way and More information: including downloadable copies of loops 3 norfolkcoastaonb.org.uk Pick up a pocket guide For walkers, cyclists and horseriders planning to spend In fact, 70% of the businesses the Coasthopper stops by Wells sta- time on the National Trail a new guide is the perfect listed offering B&B on the Norfolk tion. companion, writes Helen Timson. Coast have advised the guide The route now takes you out to The pocket-sized guide details accommodation, that they are committed to and the famous fairground village services, telephone numbers and information on using locally sourced food and organ and steam museum and past St how to get to the route using public transport. produce wherever possible. Andrew’s Church before skirting Surveys show that walking is increasingly popular as To purchase this guide, please people escape to the great outdoors for health, fun and send a cheque payable to Norfolk back to Wighton and spiritual refreshment. The booklet brings businesses and County Council for £4 together offers some excellent long views as walkers together – and helps look after the Norfolk Coast with your name and address, to you pass through typical Norfolk at the same time. the National Trail, Baron’s Close, open farmland. With time getting There are some pretty amazing businesses out there Fakenham, Norfolk, NR21 8BE. on and knowing the area well I de- all doing their bit for the environment. Home Farm Alternatively you can download the guide for free cide to continue along the National Stables at Holme for example, where Mary Ransome from our website: www.nationaltrail.co.uk. route 1 through Great Walsingham, offers Horse B&B (that’s accommodation for riders and Home Farm Stables: 01485 525350 For me it’s then time to follow their horses). Or Courtyard Farm in Ringstead where you Courtyard Farm: 01485 525251 area from tearooms to a farmshop Route 30 through Binham with its can stay in the bunk barn on a working organic farm and The Gin Trap Inn: 01485 525264 complex, various denomination majestic Priory and back to my start- visit the local pub, the Gin Trap Inn to taste some of the The Old Forge: 01328 730707 churches including a Russian Ortho- ing point at Langham. farm produce. Or The Old Forge at Burnham Market dox. If you want to visit and explore offering B&B where there is a £5 discount if you turn up Helen Timson is Norfolk Coast Path and Peddars Way on another day why not use the Steve Tutt is Norfolk Coast on foot or bike… and there are many more. National Trail Companion Guide editor. Wells-Walsingham Light Railway – Partnership technical assistant.