3rd October 2007

Sandhurst’s Wild Side

Walking through Wildmoor Heath Sandhurst has changed over the past 200 years, particularly since the arrival of the military college, but despite all the development the surrounding countryside still remains. The River Blackwater and Wildmoor Heath are just two examples of the variety of habitats in the area that are worth visiting. Witness some of the changes and see the different habitats on a walk on Wednesday 24th October, organised by the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership, which passes alongside the river, through parkland, water meadows, heathland, wild woods and bog.

Sandhurst – derived from ‘Sand’, the type of soil and hurst, meaning wood – was once a small farming community, part of Windsor Forest. As such it was subject to forest laws and local people had a right to cut turf, heather, bracken and wood. During the reign of Henry VIII, sheep breeding was introduced in the area known as Sheep Rayles (now called Snaprails) and slowly the population began to increase. Very little changed until the 1800s when large sections of land were sold for building the Royal Military College in 1812.

The circular walk on Wednesday 24th October, will show how the area has changed. As well as walking alongside the River Blackwater, it will pass through Sandhurst Memorial Park and Shepherd Meadows , Blackwater Reach meadow, Wildmoor Heath – a site of international importance – and Snaprails Park. Altogether it will cover about 5½ miles, including some slopes and uneven ground, passing through some wet and boggy areas, and should last about 2½ to 3 hours.

If you would like to take part, meet for a 10am start at Sandhurst Memorial car park off Yorktown Road, Sandhurst. Wet weather clothing and suitable footwear are recommended. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. For more details contact Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership on 01252 331353.

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For further information contact: Christine Reeves, Visitor Promotions Officer on 01252 331353. Ash Lock Cottage, Government Road, Aldershot GU11 2PS