To celebrate the achievements of the Herefordshire Community Commons Project, and to thank everyone for their amazing efforts in making the project such a success, a Celebration Event was held on Saturday September 25th 2010 on the top of Hergest Ridge Common.
It was a bright and cool autumn day and was attended by representatives of the Project's partners; Herefordshire Nature Trust, Heritage Lottery Fund, Natural England and Herefordshire Council. Also welcomed along were common owners, commoners and local people from the 12 community commons, as well as those that have helped the project during the years, including wildlife and archaeology experts.
A marquee was assembled near the top of the common and guests made their way by foot or vehicle to 420 metres above sea level, probably Herefordshire's highest party?
The Community Commons Project staff, Sam Durham & Judy Hart, welcomed everyone and presented the project's achievements.
The event was kindly hosted by Lawrence Banks, owner of Hergest Ridge. Mr Banks spoke enthusiastically about the improvements the project has introduced to the common. Lesley Whistance also spoke about the project's impact on her local common, Garway Hill.
Harriett Devlin represented the Heritage Lottery Fund, and welcomed the success of the project.
Speeches were followed by a Hog Roast and an opportunity for everyone to take in the sunset.
All photos by kind permission of Mike Ashton www.macreative.co.uk
The Community Commons project is joint funded by Heritage Lottery Fund, Natural England, Herefordshire Council and Herefordshire Nature Trust.
