8th April 2005

In the Footsteps of Highwaymen & Herders

Historically the route across Yateley Common was used by travellers trying to avoid highwaymen on the main roads.
But on Wednesday 20th April it serves as the first stretch
of a circular walk organised by the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership.

Initially the walk crosses the lowland heathland of Yateley Common, an internationally rare and declining habitat. It then picks up the Blackwater Valley Path, following the
River Blackwater upstream, passing through Shepherd Meadows, a wildflower meadow supporting over 600 species of insect, before returning to Yateley Common.  

Led by Sarah Broadhead, the walk provides a perfect opportunity to see some of the contrasting habitats found around Yateley - heathland, riverside, grassland, meadows and woodland. It also give participants an opportunity to find out a little about the history of the area.

Did you know...
...Blackwater was once the only place you could
cross the River and, as a result, a meeting point
for West Country herders who would stop there with their livestock en route to London?

...during medieval times, the area was regularly used by hunting parties from nearby Chertsey Abbey?

...at the turn of the 20th century, the area was used by the Royal Military Academy as a training ground for the British Army with cadets practising drawing and map-making skills?

...Shepherd Meadows is named after the famous wildlife artist David Shepherd?

If you would like to join the walk, which covers about five - six miles, meet for a 10am start at Yateley Common car park off the A30; it should last about 2½ to 3 hours. Wet weather clothing and suitable footwear are recommended. The going will be relatively flat, although there are some slopes, areas of uneven ground and steps. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. For more details contact Sarah Broadhead at Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership on 01252 331353.

This walk is part of the ‘Discover the Blackwater Valley 2005 Programme’ organised by the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership and designed to encourage residents within the Blackwater Valley area to learn more about the countryside on their doorstep. For a copy of the programme ring 01252 331353 or visit www.blackwater-valley.org.uk

END

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

NOTES 

• The Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership (BVCP) is funded by the County, District and Parish Councils along the River Blackwater. It works to promote community action in conservation and recreation and to protect the Valley for the enjoyment and well being of the whole community.
• Members of the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership are: Hampshire County Council, Surrey County Council; the District, Town and Borough Councils of Blackwater & Hawley, Bracknell Forest, Farnham, Guildford, Hart, Rushmoor, Sandhurst, Surrey Heath, Waverley, Wokingham and Yateley.