|
|
FAQ
|
The ancient Celts buried their dead in barrows amongst these hills, while the chroniclers of the Doomsday Book also noted a few basic details about my village - which is perhaps 1,300 years old. Two famous paths cross my area. Pilgrims' Way is an ancient thoroughfare to Canterbury Cathedral allegedly used, amongst others, by Henry II after the murder of Thomas Becket. It attracts a few hikers but today the 153 mile North Downs Way is the more popular trail. Other visitors come to see the village churches; two local ones are over 900 years old. Changing times Until relatively recently, the village comprised just the church and a handful of farms. Today, there is a large commuting population who travel to London and other cities. Continued population growth in the nearest town has put the village under considerable strain. The main through road is now intolerably busy and kills several animals each year. In common with many British communities, my village has lost its own shop, dentist and post office. But the church is the main focus of local identity. We do have a parish council and a local paper, and the village fête and dog show is always very popular.
We also border large areas of protected greenbelt which is generally a mix of meadow and woodland. The local network of footpaths is impressive and offers access to a variety of wildlife viewing opportunities. In fact nearly all my North Downs photos are taken within walking distance of my house.
|
|
A taste of history
Farming still occupies a large part of the landscape. Canola (rape),
wheat and other crops are grown; there are few commercial livestock here.
But horses are very popular for riding, dressage and general recreation, and
many fields are used to graze them. This is a good thing, as horses (in
appropriate numbers) benefit meadows by light grazing. In my experience,
foxes seem to actively select fields grazed by horses, and actively avoid
those used by sheep.