News from Wicken Fen
THANK YOU TO EVERYONE who took time to attend our recent User Drop-in sessions at the Fen. The sessions were well attended, particularly by the horseriding fraternity and provided plenty of useful feedback and suggestions. Details of the User Forum consisting of representatives of the various User Groups that regularly use Wicken Fen and the wider Vision lands will be announced shortly.
Development of the Wicken Fen Spine Route continues with the appointment of Peterborough based consultants Royal Haskoning to design and supervise the construction of the new Reach Lode Bridge. Construction is expected to commence next Summer and when completed will enable unbroken access from Wicken down to Anglesey Abbey or Waterbeach. Discussions are progressing with the Environment Agency over the modernisation or replacement of the Burwell Lode Bridge. Ideally agreement can be reached for the bridge to be permanently in the down position in order to assist access for cyclists and horesriders. A grant has recently been received from the Environment Agency which will allow the path across Guinea Hall Fen from Monk's Lode to Priory Farm to be upgraded.
Button, a Konik pony foal made an unexpected entrance to the world on 18 October. His mother had not displayed signs of being pregnant and it is relatively unusual for foals to be born this time of year. Regretfully young Button was rejected by his mother and is now being cared for by the World Horse Welfare charity in Snetterton, Norfolk. Button should be able to return to Wicken Fen when he is able to look after himself in roughly 6 - 8 months time.
Christmas is fast approaching and Father Christmas will be visiting the Fen on 7, 13 and 14th December. A Christmas trail around the boardwalk will lead you to his secret grotto, where he will have a present for every child.
Stuck for Christmas present ideas? - The Visitor Centre has an impressive range of books, children's toys and games, bird feeders and local crafts. For that special present why not give a year's membership to the National Trust providing unlimited access to over 300 historic houses, gardens and other countryside attractions. Memberships can easily be arranged at the Visitor Centre.