14th October 2005

What’s Happening at Snaky Lane?

The newly re-formed  Snaky Lane Community Wildlife Group is going from strength to strength. Back in September it held an open day, followed by it’s first volunteer work party to clear the wild flower meadow at the seven-acre site in Ash Vale (see attached picture). It is now holding an open meeting  on Wednesday 26th October at the Ash Centre at 7.30pm so that anyone with an interest
in the site can learn more about the area whilst contributing towards plans for the future.

“We’ve had plenty of ideas from local residents
about what improvements can be made to the site to make it more attractive,” said Sue Dent from Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership who is helping co-ordinates the groups’ activities with leader Keith Boilnois. “We now need to discuss these ideas in more detail to ensure everyone’s happy with the outline proposals. Everyone is welcome to attend.”

Following the open meeting, a volunteer work party has been scheduled for Sunday 6th November when help is being sought to clear views to the pond, which is currently screened by trees and shrubs. As well as cutting back some of the overgrown trees and shrubs the work will help enhance the site by creating attractive vistas towards the pond. Work starts at 12 noon, followed by a barbecue for all helpers at dusk.

No special skills are required for the work party as all tools and training are provided. Helpers just need to wear suitable outdoor clothing, boots or wellies and waterproofs. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

For more details about the meeting or work party please contact Sue Dent at Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership on 01252 331353.

END

For further information please contact:
Christine Reeves, Visitor Promotions Officer on (01252) 331353.

Did you know?

• The area known as Snaky Lane was once the property of the Abbot of Chertsey Abbey when he was the Lord of the Manor of Ash. He was given the land in 1323 by a William Souter.
• By 1871 the area had been incorporated into Lynchford Castle Farm which covered a total of 70 acres and belonged to a James Nash.
• The road through Mr. Nash’s farm was named as Stratford Road in a list prepared for Ash Parish Council in 1907 although it was widely known as Snaky Lane, although we do not know why.
• The site is now owned by Guildford Borough Council.

Pic caption: The first volunteer work party of the newly re-formed Snaky Lane Community Wildlife Group in October proved a great success with over a dozen people coming along to help cut the meadow to improve the habit for wild flowers.

Find out more about Snaky Lane...