On Sunday 10th July we were guided on a fascinating walk around Farthing Downs & Happy Valley in Coulsdon.
Led by rangers Dominic North & Ed Sanger, a group of 16 of our supporters were guided around the stunningly beautiful landscape under glorious blue skies and bright sunshine.
We learned about the varied flora such as very rare orchids, birds & insects and the complex management requirements of the large chalk area. This management is ably assisted by sheep and cows, some of whom we met along the way.
We also learned about the Saxon burial mounds that are scattered around the Downs, as well as the history of leisure activities such as swing boats situated on what is now the Downs car park.
Happily the area designated as an SSSI (A Site of Special Scientific Interest) giving it very strong protection against development or even erecting fences. It may also become an AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) soon, to give even more protection.
We would like to thank Dominic and Ed for providing us with such an enjoyable walk and talk. Keep checking our events page for other activities that we may plan in the future. In the meantime, here is a gallery of the day.
RSPCA South London - For Every Kind Of Creature 