Category: Board

International Trails Day is taking place on Saturday 5 June 2021 as an annual celebration of walking trails worldwide, their significance and the important role we all play in conserving them.

Originally founded by The American Hiking Society (AMS) and inspired by the National Trails Day that has been established for 30 years in the US, International Trails Day takes place on the first Saturday of June each year and is a way to celebrate the amazing trails to be enjoyed around the world.

The past year has confirmed the huge benefits that we all receive from the green spaces that surround us and our National Trails are a key part of that. Providing us with the chance to connect with nature, exercise in the open air and explore new pathways and places, they are vital spaces for both our mental and physical health, as well as for the species that call them home. Perfect both for long-distance hikes and shorter countryside walks, these great walking trails of the UK criss-cross the country, opening up the countryside for adventures of discovery and showcasing some of the very best scenery to eager explorers.

Here in the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) we are lucky enough to have the North Downs Way National Trail pass through the Surrey Hills from Farnham and on to the Kent Downs AONB, before finishing at the famous White Cliffs of Dover. One of England’s most accessible trails, the North Downs Way cuts across South East England, providing 153 miles of walking trails of stunning scenery, rich history, countryside views and pretty villages to visit along the way.

This year, in celebration of International Trails Day, people are being encouraged to take a moment to share a ‘Trail Tribute’ on social media as a way of expressing their appreciation for the National Trails they enjoy and as a way to express their gratitude for the people that look after them. Using the hashtags #ITD2021 and #MyTrailTribute, celebrate the North Downs Way this International Trails Day and share a photo of the trail, tagging @surreyhillsaonb on Instagram, @SurreyHills on Facebook and @SurreyHillsAONB on Twitter, alongside @NorthDownsWay.

International Trails Day helps us to see our treasured North Downs Way as part of a wider network of trails, each cared for by a community of rangers, volunteers and essential workers who ensure that they are safely maintained for the walkers of today and those of future generations. They are places of exploration, relaxation, reconnection, discovery, adventure and more, and this International Trails Day will shine a spotlight on the vital part they play in our countryside.

For more information about the North Downs Way National Trail, visit: www.nationaltrail.co.uk/en_GB/trails/north-downs-way.

Residents and visitors to the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) are being reminded of the dangers of wildfires as the weather becomes more seasonably warm and we head towards the bank holiday weekend. Just one spark, whether from a cigarette, BBQ or campfire, can start a wildfire that can destroy precious habitats and kill wildlife.

The newly-updated Countryside Code urges visitors to our green spaces to respect and protect the environment by only using BBQs where signs state that they are allowed and making sure that, if used, they are extinguished fully, with the cold ashes disposed of responsibly. It also draws attention to the dangers of naked flames and cigarettes.

Last May saw a real-life example of the devastation that can be caused by an out-of-control fire in the countryside, when Thursley Common, a national nature reserve in the Surrey Hills AONB, fell victim to a vast wildfire. A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), the fire quickly resulted in a tragedy that unfolded to devastating proportions, with more than 130 hectares of protected heathland destroyed by the blaze. As the fire encroached on the Common’s protected habitats, an estimated 200-300 precious animal and plant species were impacted and huge swathes of the heathland and trails were lost – totalling around a third of the nature reserve.

The terrible fire at Thursley Common in spring 2020, also highlighted the pressure that is put on the emergency services when a wildfire takes hold of the countryside. Such a huge operation, of some 40 firefighters in the case of the Thursley Common fire, places an enormous additional strain on the fire service, a danger to both people and properties locally.

Heather Kerswell, Chair of the Surrey Hills AONB Board, comments:

“While May has seen a lot of rain it will not take long for the ground to dry out again. We urge everyone please not to use disposable BBQs, not to light camp fires or to drop cigarettes when visiting the AONB and to make sure that any flames that are used, are fully extinguished to prevent further devastating wildfires. We all have a responsibility to look after the countryside for current and future generations and being mindful of the risk of wildfires and the danger they pose to nature is one of the ways that we can do this. Enjoy your visit!”

The Surrey Hills Board is working to engage landowners and farmers across the Surrey Hills to help raise awareness of the dangers of wildfires amongst the public. Surrey Fire Service’s wildfire team led a recent workshop for members of the Greenscape, West Surrey Greensands and the North Downs Facilitation Fund groups who bring together landowners and managers across Surrey to encourage collaboration and achieve environmental improvements. The workshop highlighted the causes of wildfires, what to look out for and the importance of signage to educate the public.

The group also learnt more about a new initiative The K9 Fire Patrol, where local dog walkers can act as the eyes and ears of the fire service! K9 Fire Patrol members need only record their time walking and report any fires, fly tipping or anti-social behaviour observed, providing the perfect opportunity to spread awareness about wildfires and the risks they pose to people, businesses and local wildlife.

Those keen to sign up for the K9 Fire Patrol can email The Surrey Fire and Rescue Service sfrs.wildfire@surreycc.gov.uk.

To learn more about the dangers of wildfires, watch this short video, produced by Defra: https://youtu.be/ci9qkFm-Zp0.

Anyone that notices an unattended fire in the countryside, is encouraged to call 999 immediately to report it.

For further information on the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) visit www.surreyhills.org.

This month, people are being urged to leave the mower in the shed and the lawn to nature as part of Plantlife’s ‘No Mow May’. Plantlife is the British conservation charity that works to save threatened wild flowers, plants and fungi, both nationally and internationally, and their annual No Mow May campaign is a way of highlighting the importance of garden wildlife and plant species, and their vital role in pollination.

Culminating in the Bank Holiday Weekend at the end of the month, those that have taken part in #NoMowMay and those that haven’t, are being encouraged to count the flowers on their lawn as part of the Every Flower Counts Survey – a way of recording the levels of wildflowers growing in gardens and, in turn, the nectar that is available for the key species that feed on it.

By counting the flowers on their lawn between 22^nd and 31^st May, people will receive a Personal Nectar Score, from which Plantlife can calculate a National Nectar Index. This will reveal how lawns across the country are helping to feed pollinating species.

Previous surveys have shown that more than 200 species of wild flower grow on UK lawns, with unmown lawns home to an even greater number – and variety – of plant species. In turn, the studies have shown that almost 100 different pollinators exist on garden lawns, with bees the most common (making up 63%) and hoverflies (15%) and butterflies and moths next (10%).

It is easy to think of our lawns as wildlife deserts, but the Every Flower Counts survey has shown quite the opposite is true and the frequency of mowing directly impacts the number of pollinating species in our gardens. In recent years, both have been in sharp decline, showing the important relationship between plants and pollinators.

Since the 1930s, almost 7.5 million acres of meadows and pastures, rich in wildflowers, have been lost, meaning the important role of our garden lawns has increased – and with 15 million gardens in Britain, there is huge potential to provide nectar for pollinating species. One acre of wildflower meadow, on a single summer’s day, can support almost 96,000 honey bees on its 3 million flowers – incredible!

The survey will therefore also reveal the top ten lawn-growing flowers and provide advice on how to increase the number of flowers within garden lawns as a way of counteracting meadow loss across the country.

Every Flower Counts is the first survey of its kind to assess the species found in garden lawns and their vital role in pollination. It will also allow Plantlife to monitor trends over time, learn how the score can be improved, discover the possible impact of climate change and find out what the most frequently seen plant species in British garden lawns are.

To find out more about No Mow May and Every Flower Counts, visit: www.plantlife.org.uk/everyflowercounts.

This month saw the launch of a new, refreshed Countryside Code from Natural England, with the aim of updating the guidance for those visiting and enjoying the countryside.

The refreshed Countryside Code encourages all ages to get out into green spaces, whilst doing so in a safe and respectful way that doesn’t damage the precious environment or cause issues for local communities and other visitors. 70 years on from the launch of the first Countryside Code in 1951, the new guidelines come at a time when more people than ever before are discovering the health and wellbeing benefits of being in nature.

Particular updates to the revised Countryside Code include advice for people to ‘be nice, say hello, share the space’, ‘enjoy your visit, have fun, make a memory’, and reminders to keep to footpaths and bridleways and not to feed wild animals or livestock. There are also clearer rules for dog walkers around cleaning up after their animal and ensuring dogs are kept under control around livestock. Another change is the addition of information around permissions to undertake activities, such as wild swimming.

It has also been made clear that the Countryside Code applies to all places in nature, including parks, waterways, the coast and countryside.

Featuring in a new short film that has been made to coincide with the launch, Surrey Hills farmer, Paula Matthews from Manor Farm in Wotton near Dorking, speaks of the impact of visitors on the working countryside and the importance of respecting the environment around us. She says:

“The Countryside Code gives help and advice to plan for a safe and enjoyable visit to the Countryside, whilst remembering that it’s a place of work; growing food for us all to eat and providing habitats and quiet areas to protect and enrich wildlife and biodiversity in the Surrey Hills”.

[su_youtube url=”https://youtu.be/8yCR1SmraNA”]

To view the newly updated Countryside Code, visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-countryside-code

The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty secured the top spot in a recent Sunday Times article as the best place to live in the South East. Boasting diverse and picturesque landscapes, quintessential towns and villages and breathtaking views all within an hour of London by train it’s easy to see why the area is so popular.

The Times and Sunday Times property editor Helen Davies commented:
“With miles of ancient woodlands, panoramic views and timeless, picture-perfect villages such as Tilford, Shere and Abinger Hammer, life in the Surrey Hills is a gloriously romantic rural idyll – and it’s all within commuting distance of London.”

With the popularity of the Surrey Hills at an all-time high, the AONB Board is eager to work with our land managers and communities to build at least 100 new hotels, thousands of new homes and even a superhighway over the next 2 years. Before everyone recoils in shock this is not to provide accommodation for visitors or to relieve traffic, it is because we need to provide more space for nature.

Nature is in catastrophic decline, due in the main to urbanisation, agricultural practices, pollution, and climate change. The 2019 State of Nature report found 41% of UK species are declining and one in 10 is threatened with extinction. A recent report ‘Insect declines and why they matter’ commissioned by a group of Wildlife Trusts concluded that drastic declines in insect numbers will have far-reaching consequences for wildlife and people. Insects make up the bulk of known species on Earth, and are integral to the functioning of ecosystems, performing vital roles such as pollination, seed dispersal and nutrient cycling. The positive message from this report is that we know why our pollinators and other insects are dying and that concerted action from government, local authorities, food growers and the public can reverse this unfolding disaster.

In a bid to fight back for nature, Buglife launched their new ‘superhighways’ plans last week to help the UK’s pollinators. The aim is to reconnect landscapes so pollinators and wildlife can move freely. Buglife is mapping a network of insect superhighways across Surrey of potential wildflower habitat – called B-Lines.

Catherine Jones from Buglife comments: “B-Lines provide an exciting opportunity for everyone to support our struggling insect pollinators. By working together to create a network of wildflower-rich habitats, we can support healthy populations of bees and other pollinators enabling them respond to threats such as climate change.”

The time to act is now and we can all play a part in making space for nature by helping to provide habitats for wildlife and insects. An example of this can be seen at Albury Vineyard, who are the proud of owners of a giant hotel– of the bug variety!

“More than 80% of EU crops rely on a severely declining bug population for pollination,” explains vineyard owner Nick Wenman. “The Bug Hotel is a great way to help educate local school children on the importance of pollinators to the environment. We very much welcome anyone who is interested to come and visit us, enjoy a glass of our organic wine and visit the Bug Hotel.”

Hotel developer Andy Wright of Conservation and Access comments: “A bug hotel is basically a cavity stuffed with different types of wood and lots of holes, nooks and crannies for insects to lay their eggs. Big or small, they are all great for insects. It’s a mini-world of adventure in these things and they are amazingly textured and interesting on the eye. We mustn’t forget about pollinating plants as well,  everyone with a garden can do their bit simply with a patch of floristic lawn.”

The Surrey Hills Board are keen to work with local communities and Parish Councils across the Surrey Hills to develop initiatives to benefit nature.

Liz Cutter, Vice President of the Surrey Association of Local Councils (SALC) comments: “We need to act collaboratively now to stop the decline of nature. We know from our Making Space for Nature Symposium with Surrey University last year that people want to get involved in projects that benefit nature but don’t know how so we have decided to establish a Greening Communities initiative that will work with local communities to develop projects that encourage the return of nature. From creating bug hotels and pond restoration to community nature reserves and traffic calming, we can all play a part locally and the more people engaged in our work the more we can make a difference”.

Rob Fairbanks, Surrey Hills AONB Director, states: “We are having to give nature a Helping Hand by creating these structures but we urgently need to work with our farmers and landowners to ensure we manage our environment in a more sustainable way to let nature flourish itself.  Nature is our grandest designer and species like the beaver can create their own homes which also provides a nature based solution to help manage flood risks.”

If you want to get involved in our new Greening Communities initiative please email your interest to pennie.king@surreycc.gov.uk

For further information on the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) visit www.surreyhills.org.

The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) has been named as the best place to live in the Southeast, according to The Sunday Times newspaper.

Topping the list for the region, the Surrey Hills was chosen for its “gloriously restorative landscape”, “historical villages”, “striking distance of London” and “plethora of village events”. Scooping the top spot in the 2021 ranking, the Surrey Hills AONB saw off runners-up Lewes, Winchester, Petworth and the Isle of Wight, amongst others.

Part of The Sunday Times’ ‘Best Places to Live 2021’ roundup, the writers pointed to the many reasons that make living amongst the Surrey Hills highly sought-after:

“Here the wooded hills, flower-rich grasslands and moorlands between Farnham and Dorking offer the perfect picturesque English countryside – and heartwarming pubs – for anyone who isn’t ready to completely cut their ties with the capital… This is the Hollywood version of country life.”

With endless opportunities to explore a diverse landscape of hills and valleys, thick woods, open farmland and intriguing sunken lanes, as well as pretty villages and historic market towns, it is easy to see why the Surrey Hills AONB stands in prime position as the most desirable place to call home in the Southeast.

Whilst the entirety of the Surrey Hills was picked out as taking the top spot, a handful of locations were given special mention by The Sunday Times, including Tilford, Chiddingfold, Abinger Hammer and Friday Street. Newlands Corner was also chosen as a not-to-be-missed site for its ranging views, Agatha Christie connections and proximity to the mysterious Silent Pool.

Vice President of the Surrey Hills Society, Christine Howard, was also quoted as part of The Sunday Times’ article, saying:

“What I love most are the trees. It’s such a special landscape. I grew up on English fairy tales. When I’m out walking here I feel like I’m in the land of Tolkein or Beatrix Potter.”

To read more about why the Surrey Hills AONB was chosen as The Sunday Times’ Best Place to Live in the Southeast 2021, visit: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/surrey-hills-best-place-to-live-southeast-uk-9w8nfwqhw

As lockdown measures ease during March and April we are expecting the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to be a popular destination for both locals and visitors. The past year has drawn more people than ever towards our green spaces in an effort to find fresh air for exercise and to reconnect with nature.

The Government’s roadmap out of lockdown will see measures eased from 29 March, with the relaxation of the ‘Stay at Home’ rule, meaning outdoor gatherings of either 6 people or 2 households will be allowed, making it easier for friends and families to meet outside. From 12 April non-essential retail will be able to open including most outdoor attractions and settings and hospitality venues will be allowed to serve people outdoors.

These dates also coincide with the Easter break, school holidays and improved weather, all factors that will see a greater volume of visitors head to the Hills for recreation and relaxation.

Heather Kerswell, Chair of the Surrey Hills AONB Board comments;

“As lockdown measures slowly ease over the coming months we expect the Surrey Hills to attract a greater volume of visitors. It is important that those who do come follow the Countryside Code and our guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. We encourage those who do come to seek out the less well-known areas of the Surrey Hills and keep away from the busy beauty spots where it will be harder to socially distance. Please remember to respect, protect and enjoy the outdoors and where possible support the local business community who very much need our custom as this time”.

We encourage residents to be tolerant and visitors to be kind as we see an increased enthusiasm for the Surrey Hills over the coming months.

In-line with the newly launched Countryside Code we’ve set out our top tips for visiting this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to ensure the countryside is a safe place for all:

• We are aware that many visitors who love to walk and cycle will have greatly missed the Surrey Hills landscape, the views and the well-known beauty spots. We advise you to avoid well-known sites such as Box Hill, Leith Hill and the Devil’s Punch Bowl which may become congested and therefore difficult to socially distance. Instead why not visit lesser known areas of the Surrey Hills.
• Please check before you travel that hospitality, car parks and facilities are open. Some local amenities such as loos may not have reopened yet.
• Take your litter home, leaving no trace of your visit. This keeps the Surrey Hills a special place for everyone. Please don’t light fires or BBQs unless there is a sign to say they are permitted. It is easy for a fire to get out of control and destroy rare habitats.
• Respect local wildlife and look after nature by being extra cautious and sticking to footpaths and bridleways so as not to disturb ground nesting birds and other wildlife.
• Please be aware that our local farms are under great seasonal pressures during this time and we would encourage you to respect their needs by keeping dogs on leads and follow all designated foot paths and bridleways to keep yourselves and farm animals safe.
• Remember to consider the local community and other people enjoying the outdoors. Observe social distancing measures to help restrict the spread of the virus and ensure the countryside is a safe place for all.
• We encourage you to continue supporting local during this time of transition and want to highlight all the wonderful products and services available on our doorstep in the Surrey Hills. Take a look at our list of businesses offering home deliveries, online support and services, gifts and inspiration.
• We hope that renewed enthusiasm for the Surrey Hills will translate into more people getting involved in caring for nature, wildlife, and the landscape. Remember to Respect, Protect and Enjoy – breathe deep, stride out, and give a cheery heartfelt hello to those you meet along the way!

Chris Howard, Chairman of Visit Surrey comments;

“Visit Surrey is delighted to welcome back our residents and visitors to the many attractions our county has to offer. It will however, be a challenging time for the county’s most popular beauty spots and researching to find some of the Surrey Hills hidden gems may make for a more enjoyable and safer experience. Remember many places, even if they are free, will want you to book in advance. Also, toilets and other facilities will still be limited, so do plan your outings carefully.”

Stephanie Fudge, National Trust General Manager for the Surrey Hills comments;

“We would encourage all visitors to plan outings carefully and to check facilities are fully open. As wildlife emerges from the winter we are seeing large numbers of ground nesting birds across the Surrey Hills from March until early Summer. Their breeding success is critically dependent on not being disturbed and so we would ask that visitors are considerate, to keep to paths and keep their dogs on leads in sensitive areas. By being respectful of wildlife and the local community we can all benefit from an enjoyable visit to the Surrey Hills.”

For further information on the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) visit www.surreyhills.org.

The NFU has joined with Surrey Hills AONB in appealing to walkers to keep dogs on a lead around farm animals and follow the countryside code.

Heather Kerswell, Chair of the Surrey Hills AONB Board, said:

“The past year has drawn more people than ever towards our green spaces. As lockdown measures ease over the coming months and the weather improves, we are expecting the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to be a popular destination for both locals and visitors.

“Please be aware that our local farms are under great seasonal pressures during this time.  Our farmers and land managers need your support by keeping to designated foot paths and bridleways, keeping dogs on leads, being careful not to trample on crops, closing gates and ensuring we all practice the Countryside Code values of ‘Respect – Protect – Enjoy’.

“We ask everyone to act responsibly to ensure the countryside is a safe place for all.”

The NFU’s livestock farmer members are appealing to dog walkers to #takethelead and use a lead when walking in the countryside. The warning comes as 16 million ewes are giving birth to lambs across the UK between now and late spring. All too often sheep, in particular, end up being killed or horribly mutilated by out-of-control pet dogs.

Surrey NFU chairman Richard Keen, who farms sheep, cattle and poultry at Etherley Farm, Ockley, near Dorking, said:

“The number of dog attacks on livestock across our region remains high, with distressing consequences for both farmers and dog owners whose pet could be shot if it’s caught in the act. Most attacks are completely preventable, so we are appealing to dog owners to keep their dog on a lead around livestock and check that their properties are dog proof. If chased, pregnant ewes (female sheep) can commonly lose their lambs or die from stress and exhaustion.”

He added: “Our message comes with more and more people out and about walking dogs in the countryside. The vast majority of dog owners behave responsibly, but sadly a minority allow their pets to run freely in fields where farm animals may be grazing. Spring is here and young livestock are particularly vulnerable, so please #takethelead, take extra care and avoid an animal welfare tragedy.”

The NFU reminds people that if chased by cattle, they should release their dog off the lead and get themselves to safety.

These #takethelead messages will be amplified by the NFU on social media this spring and via signs erected by farmers along footpaths. The NFU is also campaigning for the Countryside Code to be taught in primary schools.

For more information, visit www.nfuonline.com.

Off Road motorised vehicles are having a major impact on the Surrey Hills. The popularity of these activities through the woods and commons of this designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), with new tracks being illegally carved out on private land, has increased during lockdown and creates tension with landowners and leisure users.

The use of off-road, quad bike and 4×4 vehicles is strictly prohibited throughout the AONB, unless on a designated Byway Open to All Traffic (BOAT). Damage by illegal off-road vehicles negatively impacts the myriad of species that call the Surrey Hills AONB home.

Recent developments have seen Surrey Police tackle rural crime in the Surrey Hills by seizing un-licensed 4×4 vehicles, handing out warnings and securing prosecutions.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey David Munro said: “Enhancing the response to crime in our rural communities remains one of my key priorities. We are lucky in Surrey to have access to wonderful countryside and I am pleased to see such proactive work by the local team in response to the concerns raised by the residents that live locally.

“In the last two years, I’ve supported Surrey Police to establish a dedicated network of rural crime officers across Surrey’s boroughs and I am proud that these individuals are making a real difference in areas where residents may feel the most isolated – preventing crime as well as apprehending those responsible. In the year ahead, I will be supporting Surrey Police to extend this further, with the addition of 10 police officers and 67 operational support staff that will strengthen the overall service of the Force, and additional funding for the rural crime team that is so important.”

Reports of damage caused by off-road vehicles were made earlier this month in Mole Valley, following the discovery of muddy tyre tracks and circular markings throughout The Gallops on Mickleham Downs. This tranquil area managed by the National Trust is regularly frequented by local dog walkers, and forms part of the popular Box Hill Hike trail. Large rutted, muddy tracks were left behind, with grass churned up and damaged, marring the beautiful ranging views across the Downs. The recent wet weather further exacerbated the problem, with sodden ground more readily damaged. Not only does this kind of destruction look unpleasant, it creates highly dangerous conditions for other people using the local routes, including walkers and cyclists.

Councillor Hazel Watson, Chairman of the Surrey Hills Byways Working Group comments,

“It is awful to see this careless destruction of the local area. The grass and woodland of Mickleham Downs is an important haven for wildlife and plant species. Damage caused by off-road vehicles is a major threat to the Surrey Hills AONB and I urge the local community to alert Surrey Police to any antisocial behaviour taking place in our countryside spaces.”

Acting Borough Commander, T/Detective Inspector Wagjiani said: “Off-roading is a nuisance and can cause considerable damage to the beauty of our countryside and woodland areas. Reporting a rural crime such as this is key. While the reporting of one incident might not lead us to the perpetrator, the collective evidence will support us in gaining the intelligence that will help us to identify a suspect. We can then take action.”

Heather Kerswell, Chair of the Surrey Hills AONB Board, says,

“There is mounting concern about the damage being caused to the protected Surrey Hills landscape by an irresponsible minority of off-road drivers. Current lockdown measures have made the Surrey Hills a popular playground for many. I commend Surrey Police for their efforts in this area and call on all our rural communities to work together to combat this serious issue”.

Reports of antisocial crime can be made to Surrey Police via their online reporting tool; https://www.surrey.police.uk/ro/report/asb/asb/report-antisocial-behaviour/

For further information on the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) visit www.surreyhills.org.

Two new Surrey Hills Arts Inspiring Views projects are soon set to launch across the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), improving access and celebrating special locations through innovative, sculptural seating – ‘Radius’ at Denbies Hillside, Dorking and ‘Portal’ at the Titsey Estate, Tandridge.

Radius, Denbies Hillside in Dorking

Appearing in April 2021, Radius will be the highlight of a new route created with conservation volunteers on Denbies Hillside, Dorking, connecting to the North Downs Way. The new trail will be accessible to everyone, including those with mobility issues, meaning that all will be able to visit the new sculpture for an uplifting and relaxing experience.

Created by artist and designer James Tunnard, the thinking behind Radius’ innovative design is to capture the essence of the undulating landscape in its curving shape, whilst providing a window from which to admire the view. Radius will be crafted from locally-sourced timber and provide sculptural seating for those walking the new route. An extra special element of the design will see Radius engraved with words written by local poets and thoughtful inscriptions from members of the public. Inspired by the natural surroundings, it is hoped that these words will stimulate thoughtful appreciation and reflection.

Following the installation of Radius, there will begin an inspirational learning programme to engage young people through sculpture workshops, walks and nature conservation activities. Young people will make their own temporary outdoor structures and bug houses, whilst exploring and learning about their local landscapes. There will also be poetry readings inspired by the view and local stories will be filmed from the seating area. Guided group outings will take people on a range of walks to experience the artwork, visit local producers and see the stunning Surrey Hills views.

This project is funded by the Interreg France (Channel) England Programme and co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund. It is supported by Surrey Hills Arts, Denbies Wine Estate, Mole Valley District Council and the North Downs Way.

For more information on Radius, see: https://www.surreyhillsarts.org/permanent-works/radius.

Portal, Titsey Estate in Tandridge

With installation also due to take place in April 2021, the panoramic view at Clarks Lane on the Titsey Estate, Tandridge will be the site of another new Inspiring Views art piece this year. Portal will be situated adjacent to the Surrey Hills’ boundary marker and sit on the North Downs Way, meaning that it will provide a restful spot for those exploring locally. Access to the site is being developed, working jointly with the Titsey Estate and the North Downs Way National Trail, to ensure a seamless experience for visitors.

Designed by wood sculptor Philip Walker, Portal will be a sculptural seat from which to make the most of open grassland views south to the High Weald and beyond. The stunning circular artwork will be made of curved English Oak sections, joined using traditional framing techniques, highlighting the incredible view by drawing the eye through the structure as it tapers from the outside inwards. Portal will also feature a curved and intimate bench for seating. The inner face will be textured and tactile, while the outer face will bear carved words inspired by the location.

Once Portal is installed, there will be a learning programme to engage people through sculpture workshops, walks and nature conservation activities. Young people will make their own temporary outdoor artworks, exploring and learning about their local landscape, and there will be a range of guided walks for people to enjoy the artwork, visit local producers and see the beautiful views.

This project is funded by the Interreg France (Channel) England Programme and co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund. It is supported by Surrey Hills Arts, Titsey Estate and the North Downs Way.

For more information on Portal, visit: https://www.surreyhillsarts.org/permanent-works/portal.

To see other Inspiring Views projects, visit: www.inspiringviews.org.

Surrey Hills Arts is a partnership between Surrey Arts and Surrey Hills AONB.

With the past year having drawn more people than ever towards our green spaces in an effort to find fresh air for exercise and to reconnect with nature, the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is calling on people to remember to tread carefully when walking in the countryside.

Current government Coronavirus guidelines stipulate that outdoor exercise should be taken locally, including when accessing open spaces, and therefore people should not be travelling into the Surrey Hills AONB if it is not within walking distance of their home. Those that do choose to walk in the countryside are being urged to do so mindfully of both the environment and the wildlife that calls the Surrey Hills home.

Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1958 and stretching across the chalk North Downs from Farnham in the west to Oxted in the east, the Surrey Hills AONB encompasses a quarter of the county and houses a diverse variety of wildlife due to the unique combination of woodland, downland and heathland. Key species include ground nesting birds that may not be visible but make homes for their young just out of sight, and potentially underfoot, during the breeding season of February to August.

Staying on marked paths and routes is particularly important when it comes to protecting these vulnerable species as disturbing them may lead to the abandonment of eggs or chicks, meaning that the birds fail to nest, eggs to hatch and chicks may die from lack of food, cold or predation. It is also a criminal offence to disturb wild breeding birds.

It is for this reason that the Surrey Hills AONB is asking walkers to remember to follow marked paths and keep their dogs on a short lead during the bird breeding season. Those that may come across young chicks or distressed adult birds should move away quietly and quickly, even if it might mean going back the way they came.

Mike Coates, RSPB Warden for Farnham and Hazeley Heaths explains:

“It is so important to protect our ground nesting birds and other wildlife. If the birds are disturbed, they can abandon their eggs and chicks. People can really help by staying on paths and keeping dogs on leads where they are asked to. It’s a simple thing, but it can make a big difference!”

Rob Fairbanks, Director of the Surrey Hills AONB, says:

“We are passionate about people accessing the countryside for their health and wellbeing but in these difficult times we need to act with the utmost responsibility and be mindful of our impact on wildlife.  Our farmers and land managers also need our support by keeping to paths, being careful not to trample on crops, closing gates and ensuring we all practice The Countryside Code values of ‘Respect – Protect – Enjoy’.”

The Countryside Code urges people to play their part in looking after local landscapes by:

• leaving no trace of their visit, including taking litter home with them;
• ensuring dogs are kept under control;
• leaving gates as they find them so as to not disturb farm animals;
• considering the local community when visiting,
• following signs and keeping to designated paths and bridleways 

  It is a message echoed by The National Trust, which cares for more than 15,000 acres of the Surrey Hills.

  Stephanie Fudge, National Trust General Manager for the Surrey Hills explains,

  “The numbers and diversity of birds is so important for our environment and the food chain. We see large numbers of ground nesting birds across the Surrey Hills from March until early Summer. Their breeding success is critically dependent on not being disturbed and so we would ask that visitors are considerate, to keep to paths and keep their dogs on leads in sensitive areas. Together we can protect and nurture the success of these nesting families.”

  For further information on the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) visit www.surreyhills.org.