the story of the restoration of petersham meadows
The original Petersham Trust web site charted the progress of the Trust from its inception in 1998 through to its handover to the National Trust in 2010 and provides a very informative history of farming activities on the meadows over the years.
This archive of this site may disappear in due course so the background and newsletters follow below. They provide a rich and interesting narrative of the challenges and achievements of the trust during this period.
This archive of this site may disappear in due course so the background and newsletters follow below. They provide a rich and interesting narrative of the challenges and achievements of the trust during this period.
historical context
Cows on Petersham Meadows in 2008 with the Petersham Hotel in the background
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Cows in Petersham Meadows in 2014 with Star & Garter in background
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Petersham Meadows were a part of the estate attached to Ham House from the early 17th Century until the latter years of the 19th Century. There have been cows grazing on Petersham Meadows from, at least, that time. The grazing herd have been featured in many of the famous paintings and photographs made of the world renowned view from Richmond Hill.
Public interest in conserving Petersham Meadows has been evident for generations. At the turn of the 20th Century there was public concern that a housing estate would be built on the Meadows. A public campaign, culminating in the 1902 Act of Parliament, has preserved the view of Petersham Meadows from Richmond Hill for posterity. The right of way across the Meadows and its close proximity to the Thames-side Petersham towpath has ensured public access to the pastoral tranquillity of the Meadows featuring its cattle herd grazing quietly on the land.
The tenancy of Petersham Farm passed through many hands until 1880 when Mr Hornby obtained the tenancy and was soon joined by Mr Clarke to found the Petersham based dairy of Hornby and Clarke. The Petersham herd supplied the milk. This business was a well-established and well-patronised feature of Richmond life until 1960 with shops selling their dairy products all over Richmond and South West London. A magnificent example of a Hornby and Clarke shop still exists in the Richmond Hill area although the shop is no longer a dairy.
The lease passed to Express Dairies. In 1982 private investors took over the lease and they intended to maintain the dairy herd. However, it was impossible to maintain a viable dairy business in the face of the changing commercial environment and EEC regulations on milk production. For some years prior to 2001, the land was let to a grazier who maintained a beef herd on the land.
The residents of Petersham and much further afield became concerned during the 1990s by the growing risk that commercial pressures would lead to valued amenity of cattle grazing on the Meadow being lost for ever. So, in the 1990s as in the 1890s the public decided action was needed to protect one of the delights of Richmond. The Petersham Trust was formed in 1998 with the aims of ensuring the cows remained on the Meadows in perpetuity and that the buildings be rebuilt and restored to allow farming activities to continue. After a long uphill struggle, a lease agreement was signed with Richmond Council on 30 October 2001 to take over the management of the Meadows.
The Trust recognised that it would be impossible to run the farm as a commercial venture due to the need for milk quotas and the high running costs associated with a small herd so a beef herd on the scale of a smallholding was chosen. One of the main fund raising objectives was to create an endowment to finance the operation.
Public interest in conserving Petersham Meadows has been evident for generations. At the turn of the 20th Century there was public concern that a housing estate would be built on the Meadows. A public campaign, culminating in the 1902 Act of Parliament, has preserved the view of Petersham Meadows from Richmond Hill for posterity. The right of way across the Meadows and its close proximity to the Thames-side Petersham towpath has ensured public access to the pastoral tranquillity of the Meadows featuring its cattle herd grazing quietly on the land.
The tenancy of Petersham Farm passed through many hands until 1880 when Mr Hornby obtained the tenancy and was soon joined by Mr Clarke to found the Petersham based dairy of Hornby and Clarke. The Petersham herd supplied the milk. This business was a well-established and well-patronised feature of Richmond life until 1960 with shops selling their dairy products all over Richmond and South West London. A magnificent example of a Hornby and Clarke shop still exists in the Richmond Hill area although the shop is no longer a dairy.
The lease passed to Express Dairies. In 1982 private investors took over the lease and they intended to maintain the dairy herd. However, it was impossible to maintain a viable dairy business in the face of the changing commercial environment and EEC regulations on milk production. For some years prior to 2001, the land was let to a grazier who maintained a beef herd on the land.
The residents of Petersham and much further afield became concerned during the 1990s by the growing risk that commercial pressures would lead to valued amenity of cattle grazing on the Meadow being lost for ever. So, in the 1990s as in the 1890s the public decided action was needed to protect one of the delights of Richmond. The Petersham Trust was formed in 1998 with the aims of ensuring the cows remained on the Meadows in perpetuity and that the buildings be rebuilt and restored to allow farming activities to continue. After a long uphill struggle, a lease agreement was signed with Richmond Council on 30 October 2001 to take over the management of the Meadows.
The Trust recognised that it would be impossible to run the farm as a commercial venture due to the need for milk quotas and the high running costs associated with a small herd so a beef herd on the scale of a smallholding was chosen. One of the main fund raising objectives was to create an endowment to finance the operation.
petersham trust newsletter September 2008
Chairman's Report - Graham Ball
The principal activity over the last year has been working towards finalising the agreement with the National Trust to care for Petersham Meadows in perpetuity. This has been one the Petersham Trust's main aims. Negotiations are now far advanced and are discussed in detail below. The Trust has arranged two very successful events over the last year. These were a jazz concert in the autumn and the regular Open Gardens weekend in the spring.
The principal activity over the last year has been working towards finalising the agreement with the National Trust to care for Petersham Meadows in perpetuity. This has been one the Petersham Trust's main aims. Negotiations are now far advanced and are discussed in detail below. The Trust has arranged two very successful events over the last year. These were a jazz concert in the autumn and the regular Open Gardens weekend in the spring.
The herd and their new calves
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The new barn
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New gates and fences have been erected, trees planted and the thistle growth that was a problem in 2007 has been addressed. The Trustees are planning to replant apple trees in the orchard as well as an oak and a Cedar of Lebanon as landmark trees in the autumn. The cost has been covered by generous specific donations. In addition, the Trustees are working with Richmond Council to reduce the concreted area on the eastern boundary and increase the area given over to pasture.
Your continued and generous support has been essential to the Trust's success and I would like to thank you for enabling the Trust to work towards achieving its aims.
National Trust
The Trustees have been in discussion with the National Trust since 2003 to arrange for the transfer of the care of Petersham Meadows. The long delay has not been of the Trustees' making and has been the cause of considerable frustration. The Trustees want to ensure that the National Trust would continue to honour the Trust's aims, the most important being a commitment to continue to retain cows on the Meadows for most of the year and to ensure that the Meadows will be maintained to the current standard.
The necessary assurances have now been obtained. In order to transfer the lease, the Trustees need to put an endowment in place which will create the revenue to fund the upkeep of the holding. The amount involved is £455,000. At the moment, there is a shortfall of £40,000.
The Trustees main activity is now to raise the funds needed to hand over the Meadows into the safekeeping of the National Trust so that their future is assured for future generations to enjoy.
The Herd
They will stay with us until October/November when they will return to their winter quarters where this year's calves will be born. The same cows return every year with their new born calves. Seeing them return to their familiar surroundings is always a joy.
They cannot remain because the grass does not have sufficient nutrients to support winter grazing. The number of calves is reduced this year as last winter's foot and mouth outbreak disrupted breeding arrangements.
New Barn
This has proved to be a great success both as a landmark building and for shelter for the herd.
Your continued and generous support has been essential to the Trust's success and I would like to thank you for enabling the Trust to work towards achieving its aims.
National Trust
The Trustees have been in discussion with the National Trust since 2003 to arrange for the transfer of the care of Petersham Meadows. The long delay has not been of the Trustees' making and has been the cause of considerable frustration. The Trustees want to ensure that the National Trust would continue to honour the Trust's aims, the most important being a commitment to continue to retain cows on the Meadows for most of the year and to ensure that the Meadows will be maintained to the current standard.
The necessary assurances have now been obtained. In order to transfer the lease, the Trustees need to put an endowment in place which will create the revenue to fund the upkeep of the holding. The amount involved is £455,000. At the moment, there is a shortfall of £40,000.
The Trustees main activity is now to raise the funds needed to hand over the Meadows into the safekeeping of the National Trust so that their future is assured for future generations to enjoy.
The Herd
They will stay with us until October/November when they will return to their winter quarters where this year's calves will be born. The same cows return every year with their new born calves. Seeing them return to their familiar surroundings is always a joy.
They cannot remain because the grass does not have sufficient nutrients to support winter grazing. The number of calves is reduced this year as last winter's foot and mouth outbreak disrupted breeding arrangements.
New Barn
This has proved to be a great success both as a landmark building and for shelter for the herd.
Landscaping
Over the last year, the Trust has continued to invest in the Meadows' infrastructure with work on gates, fences and hedges so that the current high standards are maintained.
Future Events
The Trustees will continue to organise events to enable the endowment to be paid to the National Trust. Details will follow.
Over the last year, the Trust has continued to invest in the Meadows' infrastructure with work on gates, fences and hedges so that the current high standards are maintained.
Future Events
The Trustees will continue to organise events to enable the endowment to be paid to the National Trust. Details will follow.
PETERSHAM TRUST NEWSLETTER SEPTEMBER 2007
Chairman's Report - Graham Ball
The capital infrastructure works to the Meadows have now been completed with the Milking Parlour refurbishment and a nice rustic fence surrounding the area. We used as much of the old materials as possible salvaging some old tiles from the demolished side of the Milking Parlour in case spares are required.
What remains is a genuine echo of the past milking activities with many of the old facilities and artefacts there for all to see. It is open to the elements with security features to deter undesirables. Contrarily, welcome visitors have free access to inspect an informative and pleasant place to investigate.
A new barn has been built with the same dimensions as the one it replaced but is built in wood not corrugated iron and so is likely to stay standing in the event of the merest hint of a wind! The wood does look a bit stark at the moment but it will tone down very shortly. The same is true of the little shed in front of the milking parlour looking from River Lane which contains a loo and washing facilities for our cowman Ian and although not a pretty building it will be less obtrusive when it is screened by planting planned for the Autumn.
We are in active discussion with The National Trust to complete the final phase of Trustees' responsibilities to hand over the management of the Meadows to them. The negotiations are based on ensuring that the objectives of The Petersham Trust are maintained.
The Herd
They will stay with us until October/November when they will return to their winter quarters where this year's calves will be born. They cannot remain because the grass does not have sufficient nutrients to support winter grazing.
Landscaping
A great deal of work has been done with fences, gates and trees and maintenance work is carried out on a continuous basis. This work absorbs a great deal of the Trust's income but is essential in maintaining the Meadow's unique character.
The capital infrastructure works to the Meadows have now been completed with the Milking Parlour refurbishment and a nice rustic fence surrounding the area. We used as much of the old materials as possible salvaging some old tiles from the demolished side of the Milking Parlour in case spares are required.
What remains is a genuine echo of the past milking activities with many of the old facilities and artefacts there for all to see. It is open to the elements with security features to deter undesirables. Contrarily, welcome visitors have free access to inspect an informative and pleasant place to investigate.
A new barn has been built with the same dimensions as the one it replaced but is built in wood not corrugated iron and so is likely to stay standing in the event of the merest hint of a wind! The wood does look a bit stark at the moment but it will tone down very shortly. The same is true of the little shed in front of the milking parlour looking from River Lane which contains a loo and washing facilities for our cowman Ian and although not a pretty building it will be less obtrusive when it is screened by planting planned for the Autumn.
We are in active discussion with The National Trust to complete the final phase of Trustees' responsibilities to hand over the management of the Meadows to them. The negotiations are based on ensuring that the objectives of The Petersham Trust are maintained.
The Herd
They will stay with us until October/November when they will return to their winter quarters where this year's calves will be born. They cannot remain because the grass does not have sufficient nutrients to support winter grazing.
Landscaping
A great deal of work has been done with fences, gates and trees and maintenance work is carried out on a continuous basis. This work absorbs a great deal of the Trust's income but is essential in maintaining the Meadow's unique character.
The newly renovated milking parlour
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The new shed
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Milking Parlour
The original intention was to renovate both wings. However, the quotations were over £500,000 or more than twice the original estimates. The Trustees felt that the cost was just too high and they could only afford to renovate just one wing. This project's development took months to complete including delays in the preparation work, evaluation of tenders, the planning process and a tardy builder's programme. Happily the project has now been completed.
New Barn
In contrast to the Milking Parlour, the Barn has been completed on time and at the price agreed. The cost of the work has been funded largely by two significant donations and the Trustees would like to publicly acknowledge the generosity of the two donors. The barn has a traditional oak frame with a cedar shingle roof and its high quality appearance is admired by all.
Dinner with Jazz - 7.30pm 15th October at the Dysart Arms, Petersham
Jacqui Dankworth, the celebrated jazz singer has agreed to perform for us. Steeped in music from childhood with Dame Cleo Lane and Sir John Dankworth as parents and inspirations, Jacqui has her own beautiful, subtly powerful identity.
Admission is by ticket only at £50 including a glass of prosecco on arrival, a 3 course dinner and coffee. The Dysart Arms will be closed except for the Trust's dinner. The Trust is very grateful to The Dysart Arms, Savills, Marcar Engineering and Liberty Wines for sponsoring this event.
If you are unable to come, please purchase some raffle tickets at £2.00 each. The prizes include a week's holiday at a Portuguese villa and dinner for 2 at the Petersham Hotel. Please send donations to Sylvia who will fill out the raffle ticket details.
The original intention was to renovate both wings. However, the quotations were over £500,000 or more than twice the original estimates. The Trustees felt that the cost was just too high and they could only afford to renovate just one wing. This project's development took months to complete including delays in the preparation work, evaluation of tenders, the planning process and a tardy builder's programme. Happily the project has now been completed.
New Barn
In contrast to the Milking Parlour, the Barn has been completed on time and at the price agreed. The cost of the work has been funded largely by two significant donations and the Trustees would like to publicly acknowledge the generosity of the two donors. The barn has a traditional oak frame with a cedar shingle roof and its high quality appearance is admired by all.
Dinner with Jazz - 7.30pm 15th October at the Dysart Arms, Petersham
Jacqui Dankworth, the celebrated jazz singer has agreed to perform for us. Steeped in music from childhood with Dame Cleo Lane and Sir John Dankworth as parents and inspirations, Jacqui has her own beautiful, subtly powerful identity.
Admission is by ticket only at £50 including a glass of prosecco on arrival, a 3 course dinner and coffee. The Dysart Arms will be closed except for the Trust's dinner. The Trust is very grateful to The Dysart Arms, Savills, Marcar Engineering and Liberty Wines for sponsoring this event.
If you are unable to come, please purchase some raffle tickets at £2.00 each. The prizes include a week's holiday at a Portuguese villa and dinner for 2 at the Petersham Hotel. Please send donations to Sylvia who will fill out the raffle ticket details.
PETERSHAM TRUST NEWSLETTER MAY 2006
Chairman's Report - Graham Ball
Hard Standing
In 2001, the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames had promised to enjoin this small parcel of land at the Northern boundary of the Meadows into the demised area of The Petersham Meadows. Council Officers, at the time, assured Trustees that this would be on the same terms as the original 125 year lease. Since then, negotiations have been ongoing to achieve this. LBRuT subsequently backtracked on their earlier written statements and have offered a 5 year lease instead. Reluctantly, the Trustees accepted this significantly less attractive proposal in the hope that, in time, they could subsequently improve the terms in line with the main 125 year lease.
Negotiations had dragged on interminably. Nevertheless on 1 February 2006, the terms of a draft lease were finally agreed and the Trust is awaiting a copy for signature incorporating the agreed changes so that the matter can be settled. Despite several reminders, the draft lease has not yet been sent. Matters have been complicated by the fact that the Trust's neighbours, Petersham Nurseries are making increased use of the Hard Standing to park their customers' cars. Whether the Nurseries have the authority or permission for this activity is a matter of legal dispute between Richmond Council and Petersham Nurseries.
Given the publicity that Petersham Nurseries have generated for their activities, the Trustees feel that the Trust's position should be made public. The Trust continues to press Richmond Council to finalise matters by issuing a lease document reflecting the agreed terms. The Trustees also continue to press LBRuT to confirm their position as landlord as to whether this area can be used for vehicular parking. Once signed, and dependent upon LBRuT's position on vehicular parking, the Trust intends to return a significant area to grassland and add it to Petersham Meadows as grazing pasture. This would enhance the pastoral quality of the view from Richmond Hill by removing the car park and enhance the rural aspect of this special and highly valued local amenity.
The outcome of the negotiations will be communicated as soon as it is known which the Trustees hope will be soon.
Hard Standing
In 2001, the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames had promised to enjoin this small parcel of land at the Northern boundary of the Meadows into the demised area of The Petersham Meadows. Council Officers, at the time, assured Trustees that this would be on the same terms as the original 125 year lease. Since then, negotiations have been ongoing to achieve this. LBRuT subsequently backtracked on their earlier written statements and have offered a 5 year lease instead. Reluctantly, the Trustees accepted this significantly less attractive proposal in the hope that, in time, they could subsequently improve the terms in line with the main 125 year lease.
Negotiations had dragged on interminably. Nevertheless on 1 February 2006, the terms of a draft lease were finally agreed and the Trust is awaiting a copy for signature incorporating the agreed changes so that the matter can be settled. Despite several reminders, the draft lease has not yet been sent. Matters have been complicated by the fact that the Trust's neighbours, Petersham Nurseries are making increased use of the Hard Standing to park their customers' cars. Whether the Nurseries have the authority or permission for this activity is a matter of legal dispute between Richmond Council and Petersham Nurseries.
Given the publicity that Petersham Nurseries have generated for their activities, the Trustees feel that the Trust's position should be made public. The Trust continues to press Richmond Council to finalise matters by issuing a lease document reflecting the agreed terms. The Trustees also continue to press LBRuT to confirm their position as landlord as to whether this area can be used for vehicular parking. Once signed, and dependent upon LBRuT's position on vehicular parking, the Trust intends to return a significant area to grassland and add it to Petersham Meadows as grazing pasture. This would enhance the pastoral quality of the view from Richmond Hill by removing the car park and enhance the rural aspect of this special and highly valued local amenity.
The outcome of the negotiations will be communicated as soon as it is known which the Trustees hope will be soon.
PETERSHAM TRUST NEWSLETTER JULY 2005
Message from Graham Ball, Chair
The purpose of this letter is to let you know the current state of play in respect of the achievement of the original aims of the Petersham Trust (PT) to which you have all so kindly and generously contributed, and to outline the most likely way forward.
As you are aware the primary objectives of the PT were as follows:-
1) To ensure that cows continued to graze on the meadows for the greater part of the year.
2) To make good the years of neglect due to lack of investment in the 'infrastructure' of the meadows. Specifically the perimeter fencing, the gates, improving the farm buildings on River Lane and enhancing the quality of the meadows themselves and the meadow sward - which at times threatened to be overcome (overrun) by thistle.
3) To embark upon a tree strategy which involves the removal of dead or dying trees, pruning and reshaping and the planting of new trees where appropriate.
4) To guarantee the future of the meadows in perpetuity by handing over the management of the meadows to the National Trust to continue to fulfil the PT's original objectives.
In order for the NT to take on the stewardship of the meadows they require a lump sum from the PT, the income from which they consider to be sufficient to meet the outgoings. Throughout the lifetime of the PT, cognisant of the ultimate handover objective, we have worked hand in hand with the NT and they have attended all the Trustees meetings.
So where do we stand in the attainment of the original objectives?
1) Cows continue to graze on the meadows - arriving usually, as they did this year, in April and leaving in November.
2) The vast majority of the fencing has been replaced by wooden post and rail that is much more in keeping with the rural feel that we have endeavoured to perpetuate. The gates at either end of the path have been replaced with (wheelchair friendly) kissing gates. More later on the farm buildings but for now the dangerous buildings have been removed leaving the shell of the milking parlour. We have removed over three tons of rubble and detritus from the meadows, concrete blocks embedded feet into the earth have been removed and the quality of the grass itself is better this summer than it has been for years.
3) We are two years into a five year tree strategy that has already seen the quality and condition of our tree stock much improved. Over the winter we planted nearly thirty semi mature trees including, cedar of Lebanon, red oak, horse chestnut and fruit trees.
4) In the last quarter of last year we agreed in principle a sum of money that the NT will accept as an endowment - subject to certain conditions.
One of the conditions that the NT require brings me neatly back to the issue of the farm buildings on River Lane. Although tidier, these are still an eyesore and the Trustees had initially wanted to restore the milking parlour to its original Victorian splendour.
However as we continued our fund raising it became clear that actually the NT were not in favour of restoring these buildings as the maintenance costs would be considerable and thus the required endowment sum would need to rise.
Simultaneously the costs involved in restoring these buildings which initially had been estimated at £60k had leapt to £250k - the latter figure was based on a feasibility study from a leading firm of specialist architects. At this stage however Trustees had nevertheless agreed to proceed with Phase 1 of this refurbishment (approximate cost £90k) and we sent out estimates to builders so that works could commence. However when we received the results we were forced to reconsider yet again as the actual total costs came in closer to £450k - and could easily have risen further!!
Trustees were then faced with a dilemma. The main driver for wanting to refurbish the milking parlour was to fulfil the objectives that we set out to do. However faced with a bill for £450k was that sensible?
The buildings themselves have little or no architectural merit (an earlier application for Grade 2 listing was turned down). The cows themselves would be blissfully unaware of the money spent in their name and would not have their lives affected in any way at all as they are not a dairy herd. (The milk quota was lost for the meadows in the 1970s). So we would be spending £450k on a quasi museum - a 'museum' that would have to be maintained and manned (albeit on an ad hoc basis) and moreover by restoring the building this would add significantly to the required sum necessary to raise as an endowment.
In addition, were we to knock down the existing buildings, we (or the NT) could then build a barn for a significantly smaller amount (say £90k) and this building would be of more practical use. It would retain the rural feel of the area and moreover the cost of upkeep would be minimal.
This, therefore, is the decision that Trustees have decided upon and the reasons for it. I hope you agree that under the circumstances it is both reasonable and the correct decision. It is for these reasons that we have applied to LB of R as landlord to vary the terms of our lease to let us demolish the existing buildings and also for the necessary permission to demolish because the buildings are in a conservation area.
So, turning next to the future, assuming the necessary permissions are forthcoming, in very broad terms the PT at the moment has enough net cash (after paying any likely creditors and meeting existing commitments) to pay the NT the agreed endowment. We do not have enough yet to pay the all the costs of demolition and to complete the building of a suitably rustic looking barn - although we are not far off - so any further contributions would be gratefully received! If we receive the permissions on a timely basis, the existing milking parlour will be knocked down probably during the winter when the cows are on the winter break and the rustic barn built in its stead, thereafter the area will be landscaped. Assuming that NT give us the necessary assurances to fulfil the aims outlined in this letter, we will handover the stewardship to them and our job will be essentially complete.
Should you require any elaboration or explanation of anything that is unclear, please feel free to call me on any of the contact numbers below and I would be pleased to go into further detail.
I apologise for the length of this letter and if you have reached this point thank you for your perseverance!
Thank you all for your generosity and I hope you agree that we are very close to our stated objectives.
The purpose of this letter is to let you know the current state of play in respect of the achievement of the original aims of the Petersham Trust (PT) to which you have all so kindly and generously contributed, and to outline the most likely way forward.
As you are aware the primary objectives of the PT were as follows:-
1) To ensure that cows continued to graze on the meadows for the greater part of the year.
2) To make good the years of neglect due to lack of investment in the 'infrastructure' of the meadows. Specifically the perimeter fencing, the gates, improving the farm buildings on River Lane and enhancing the quality of the meadows themselves and the meadow sward - which at times threatened to be overcome (overrun) by thistle.
3) To embark upon a tree strategy which involves the removal of dead or dying trees, pruning and reshaping and the planting of new trees where appropriate.
4) To guarantee the future of the meadows in perpetuity by handing over the management of the meadows to the National Trust to continue to fulfil the PT's original objectives.
In order for the NT to take on the stewardship of the meadows they require a lump sum from the PT, the income from which they consider to be sufficient to meet the outgoings. Throughout the lifetime of the PT, cognisant of the ultimate handover objective, we have worked hand in hand with the NT and they have attended all the Trustees meetings.
So where do we stand in the attainment of the original objectives?
1) Cows continue to graze on the meadows - arriving usually, as they did this year, in April and leaving in November.
2) The vast majority of the fencing has been replaced by wooden post and rail that is much more in keeping with the rural feel that we have endeavoured to perpetuate. The gates at either end of the path have been replaced with (wheelchair friendly) kissing gates. More later on the farm buildings but for now the dangerous buildings have been removed leaving the shell of the milking parlour. We have removed over three tons of rubble and detritus from the meadows, concrete blocks embedded feet into the earth have been removed and the quality of the grass itself is better this summer than it has been for years.
3) We are two years into a five year tree strategy that has already seen the quality and condition of our tree stock much improved. Over the winter we planted nearly thirty semi mature trees including, cedar of Lebanon, red oak, horse chestnut and fruit trees.
4) In the last quarter of last year we agreed in principle a sum of money that the NT will accept as an endowment - subject to certain conditions.
One of the conditions that the NT require brings me neatly back to the issue of the farm buildings on River Lane. Although tidier, these are still an eyesore and the Trustees had initially wanted to restore the milking parlour to its original Victorian splendour.
However as we continued our fund raising it became clear that actually the NT were not in favour of restoring these buildings as the maintenance costs would be considerable and thus the required endowment sum would need to rise.
Simultaneously the costs involved in restoring these buildings which initially had been estimated at £60k had leapt to £250k - the latter figure was based on a feasibility study from a leading firm of specialist architects. At this stage however Trustees had nevertheless agreed to proceed with Phase 1 of this refurbishment (approximate cost £90k) and we sent out estimates to builders so that works could commence. However when we received the results we were forced to reconsider yet again as the actual total costs came in closer to £450k - and could easily have risen further!!
Trustees were then faced with a dilemma. The main driver for wanting to refurbish the milking parlour was to fulfil the objectives that we set out to do. However faced with a bill for £450k was that sensible?
The buildings themselves have little or no architectural merit (an earlier application for Grade 2 listing was turned down). The cows themselves would be blissfully unaware of the money spent in their name and would not have their lives affected in any way at all as they are not a dairy herd. (The milk quota was lost for the meadows in the 1970s). So we would be spending £450k on a quasi museum - a 'museum' that would have to be maintained and manned (albeit on an ad hoc basis) and moreover by restoring the building this would add significantly to the required sum necessary to raise as an endowment.
In addition, were we to knock down the existing buildings, we (or the NT) could then build a barn for a significantly smaller amount (say £90k) and this building would be of more practical use. It would retain the rural feel of the area and moreover the cost of upkeep would be minimal.
This, therefore, is the decision that Trustees have decided upon and the reasons for it. I hope you agree that under the circumstances it is both reasonable and the correct decision. It is for these reasons that we have applied to LB of R as landlord to vary the terms of our lease to let us demolish the existing buildings and also for the necessary permission to demolish because the buildings are in a conservation area.
So, turning next to the future, assuming the necessary permissions are forthcoming, in very broad terms the PT at the moment has enough net cash (after paying any likely creditors and meeting existing commitments) to pay the NT the agreed endowment. We do not have enough yet to pay the all the costs of demolition and to complete the building of a suitably rustic looking barn - although we are not far off - so any further contributions would be gratefully received! If we receive the permissions on a timely basis, the existing milking parlour will be knocked down probably during the winter when the cows are on the winter break and the rustic barn built in its stead, thereafter the area will be landscaped. Assuming that NT give us the necessary assurances to fulfil the aims outlined in this letter, we will handover the stewardship to them and our job will be essentially complete.
Should you require any elaboration or explanation of anything that is unclear, please feel free to call me on any of the contact numbers below and I would be pleased to go into further detail.
I apologise for the length of this letter and if you have reached this point thank you for your perseverance!
Thank you all for your generosity and I hope you agree that we are very close to our stated objectives.
PETERSHAM TRUST NEWSLETTER JULY 2004
Message from Graham Ball, Chair
The Petersham Trust continues to move steadily towards achieving its goals. The designs to renovate and restore the historic Milking Parlour have been finalised and the essential repairs to the roof and main supporting beams are underway. Hopefully, planning permission for phase 2 & 3 will be granted before long. The Trust has benefited from three successful fund raising events, namely the Petersham Open Gardens place weekend, the Chris Brasher Memorial Fun Run and Memorial Dinner. Heartfelt thanks to all who helped and who participated. The Trust is well on the way to achieving its aims of enhancing and improving the Meadows while protecting them for future generations but your support is still needed to ensure that the Trust clears the remaining hurdles.
Chris Brasher Memorial Run.
The Run was held on 20 June in Richmond Park, with all proceeds going to the Petersham Trust. The race, started by Sir Roger Bannister, attracting 4,300 runners in ideal weather with many runners telling the Trust it was the most enjoyable and best organised Run in which they had ever taken part. Special thanks are due to the Trust's supporters who acted as Traffic marshals. The sight of so many people running for pure enjoyment, and plainly having a great time while taking part, would have gladdened Chris Brasher's heart and was a fitting memorial to him. The money raised is still being counted and so no firm figures are yet available.
Chris Brasher Memorial Dinner
The Dinner, held on the eve of the race, also benefited the Petersham Trust. Among those present from the many strands of Chris Brasher's life were Lord Coe, Lord Chataway and Sir Roger Bannister.
The Petersham Open Gardens Spring Bank Holiday Weekend
This was a great success with over 1,100 visitors over the two days. The Trust specially thanks the owners of the nine gardens which covered a wide diversity of size and approach but were all of great interest and an obvious source of pride to the owners. The Trust is trying to persuade the home owners to open their gardens again next year. More information will follow in the next newsletter.
Milking Parlour
The Trust intends to renovate the Milking Parlour in three phases with the timing of the building programme entirely dependent upon the level of donations received. Planning permission is being sought for Phases 2 & 3. The plans mean that the parlour will be restored to a similar condition of 120 years ago. The Trustees intend to use the Milking Parlour as a low key education centre where school children can learn of traditional farming methods and receive an insight into Richmond's rich agricultural past. Visits, given the location, will be by appointment only. There are sufficient funds on hand to carry out the essential repairs and the Trustees are hopeful that its actual and potential donors will continue to support the Trust to enable the project to be completed quickly. Phase 1 covering essential repairs to the roof and supporting beams, not subject to planning permission, has, already, been put in hand. The total cost of renovating and fitting out the Milking Parlour will be about £300,000 with many of the existing features such as roof tiles, windows and mains supplies needing to be replaced.
The Herd
Our ten cows returned with eight calves this year including twins and they are enjoying a more lush grass cover than was possible last year due to the long dry spells. Hopefully, this will mean that we will be able to keep the herd on the land until well into the autumn.
Tree Strategy
The Trustees are negotiating with the Government backed Living Spaces fund to obtain the capital needed to regenerate its tree stock and carry out the urgent repairs needed to the neglected hedgerows. The plan is to complete the work during the autumn 2004 planting season. Besides planting landmark trees in the main field, the Trustees intend to plant fruit trees in the Orchard field opposite Petersham Nurseries. All these works will enhance the view from Richmond Hill in line with the Trust's aims.
Land Management
For the first time for some years, the Trustees opened the sluice gates in the field over the winter months. This allowed the Meadows to be flooded with the high tides. The fast draining soil quickly took the water away. The Trust has made considerable efforts over the last two years, to deal with the fast encroaching weeds and thistles that took hold during the previous regime when the land was overgrazed. There is much less thistle cover this year and the Trust is now removing them only by hand. The Meadows have been rolled and harrowed again this spring ensuring the land remains in good condition. There is heartening evidence that the flood meadow flora is slowly beginning to return.
The National Trust / Arcadia
The Petersham Trust continues to work closely with both organisations with all parties having common aims. The Petersham Trust greatly benefits from being able to call up the National Trust's expertise and advice.
Computer Mouse Mats
The Trust still has stocks of its very attractive computer mouse mats showing the herd grazing in the meadows at £7.00 plus £0.50 postage and packing. A worthwhile gift for yourself and others.
The Petersham Trust continues to move steadily towards achieving its goals. The designs to renovate and restore the historic Milking Parlour have been finalised and the essential repairs to the roof and main supporting beams are underway. Hopefully, planning permission for phase 2 & 3 will be granted before long. The Trust has benefited from three successful fund raising events, namely the Petersham Open Gardens place weekend, the Chris Brasher Memorial Fun Run and Memorial Dinner. Heartfelt thanks to all who helped and who participated. The Trust is well on the way to achieving its aims of enhancing and improving the Meadows while protecting them for future generations but your support is still needed to ensure that the Trust clears the remaining hurdles.
Chris Brasher Memorial Run.
The Run was held on 20 June in Richmond Park, with all proceeds going to the Petersham Trust. The race, started by Sir Roger Bannister, attracting 4,300 runners in ideal weather with many runners telling the Trust it was the most enjoyable and best organised Run in which they had ever taken part. Special thanks are due to the Trust's supporters who acted as Traffic marshals. The sight of so many people running for pure enjoyment, and plainly having a great time while taking part, would have gladdened Chris Brasher's heart and was a fitting memorial to him. The money raised is still being counted and so no firm figures are yet available.
Chris Brasher Memorial Dinner
The Dinner, held on the eve of the race, also benefited the Petersham Trust. Among those present from the many strands of Chris Brasher's life were Lord Coe, Lord Chataway and Sir Roger Bannister.
The Petersham Open Gardens Spring Bank Holiday Weekend
This was a great success with over 1,100 visitors over the two days. The Trust specially thanks the owners of the nine gardens which covered a wide diversity of size and approach but were all of great interest and an obvious source of pride to the owners. The Trust is trying to persuade the home owners to open their gardens again next year. More information will follow in the next newsletter.
Milking Parlour
The Trust intends to renovate the Milking Parlour in three phases with the timing of the building programme entirely dependent upon the level of donations received. Planning permission is being sought for Phases 2 & 3. The plans mean that the parlour will be restored to a similar condition of 120 years ago. The Trustees intend to use the Milking Parlour as a low key education centre where school children can learn of traditional farming methods and receive an insight into Richmond's rich agricultural past. Visits, given the location, will be by appointment only. There are sufficient funds on hand to carry out the essential repairs and the Trustees are hopeful that its actual and potential donors will continue to support the Trust to enable the project to be completed quickly. Phase 1 covering essential repairs to the roof and supporting beams, not subject to planning permission, has, already, been put in hand. The total cost of renovating and fitting out the Milking Parlour will be about £300,000 with many of the existing features such as roof tiles, windows and mains supplies needing to be replaced.
The Herd
Our ten cows returned with eight calves this year including twins and they are enjoying a more lush grass cover than was possible last year due to the long dry spells. Hopefully, this will mean that we will be able to keep the herd on the land until well into the autumn.
Tree Strategy
The Trustees are negotiating with the Government backed Living Spaces fund to obtain the capital needed to regenerate its tree stock and carry out the urgent repairs needed to the neglected hedgerows. The plan is to complete the work during the autumn 2004 planting season. Besides planting landmark trees in the main field, the Trustees intend to plant fruit trees in the Orchard field opposite Petersham Nurseries. All these works will enhance the view from Richmond Hill in line with the Trust's aims.
Land Management
For the first time for some years, the Trustees opened the sluice gates in the field over the winter months. This allowed the Meadows to be flooded with the high tides. The fast draining soil quickly took the water away. The Trust has made considerable efforts over the last two years, to deal with the fast encroaching weeds and thistles that took hold during the previous regime when the land was overgrazed. There is much less thistle cover this year and the Trust is now removing them only by hand. The Meadows have been rolled and harrowed again this spring ensuring the land remains in good condition. There is heartening evidence that the flood meadow flora is slowly beginning to return.
The National Trust / Arcadia
The Petersham Trust continues to work closely with both organisations with all parties having common aims. The Petersham Trust greatly benefits from being able to call up the National Trust's expertise and advice.
Computer Mouse Mats
The Trust still has stocks of its very attractive computer mouse mats showing the herd grazing in the meadows at £7.00 plus £0.50 postage and packing. A worthwhile gift for yourself and others.
PETERSHAM TRUST NEWSLETTER february 2004
Message from Graham Ball. Chair
The Trust has been very active over recent months on environmental improvements and in planning the next major projects. Full details are given below. The Trustees were gratified to hear a leading landscape architect say recently that the Meadows have not looked so good for at least 50 years. The Trust is well on the path to achieve its aims but funds are still urgently needed to enable us to hand on this special part of London to future generations in good order. I hope that you will support our exciting fund raising programme to bring the achievement of our aims ever closer
Fund Raising
The main events for 2004 are outlined here.
June 20: Chris Brasher Memorial Run
Chris Brasher died last year, and it is appropriate that a 10k memorial run, with additional mile races for children will be held in Richmond Park on June 20 in celebration of his life. It was exactly 40 years ago that Chris Brasher bought a house in River Lane, Petersham. The area had plenty of appeal to Chris and his family, close to Richmond Park where he enjoyed running, only 12 miles from London, yet cows grazed on Petersham Meadows and the pleasure of the historic view from Richmond Hills.
There will be a Pre-Run Dinner with a Charity Auction at the Richmond Hill Hotel on June 19. A number of famous sports stars are expected to be present including Sir Roger Bannister and Sir Christopher Chataway. Proceeds from the two events, which are organised by Hugh Brasher, son of Chris, will be donated to the Petersham Trust. Chris was Chairman of the Trust until his death and the Trustees have cooperated and advised on the two Events. Chris Brasher gave generously of his time and money, together with other local residents, to preserve the special amenities of Petersham for generations to come. The Trust is committed to carry on this ideal and money is still required complete the work to Petersham Meadows. It is hoped that many local residents will wish to take part in the run and attend the Dinner. The Children's races will be only for those resident in Boroughs bordering Richmond Park - Richmond, Kingston and Wandsworth. Age groups will range from 10-16 years with special prizes donated by the Chris Brasher Trust for individual and schools participation.
March 6/7
Petersham Nursery, just behind St. Peter's Church off the Petersham Road, are mounting a special display of 7,500 crocuses and are donating the entrance fee of £2.00 to the Petersham Trust. This will be a spectacular event open from 10.00 -16.00 and well worth supporting.
May 29/30
The Trustees have persuaded homeowners in Petersham Village to open their gardens to the general public. The cost of the £5.00 ticket will allow entry to all participating gardens, some grand - some not so grand - but all interesting. All proceeds to Petersham Trust. Full details will follow.
Buildings
Many of you will have seen that the dilapidated 1920s barn and ancillary buildings have been demolished and plans are in hand, with a leading Conservation Architect practice, to restore and conserve the unique Milking Parlour. The Trustees are anxious to press on with this project as quickly as possible. Full details will follow in the next Newsletter.
Tree Strategy
The Meadows still show signs of the neglect of tree stock and hedgerows over several decades. The Trustees plan, this year, to plant several landmark trees to enhance the view from Richmond Hill. These will include Oaks, Cedars of Lebanon and London Planes. The work will also involve extensive hedge planting and repair with the same objective. The effect of last year's substantial remedial work will become more evident as this year progresses. The regular maintenance programme continues.
Fencing, Gates and Paths
The work on replacing the fences with high quality chestnut post and rail is well advanced and will be finally completed this year. The new gates giving improved access, especially to wheel chairs and push chairs have been a great success. The Trust hopes to reach agreement soon with Richmond Council on the re-surfacing of the public footpaths.
The Cows
The usual herd of ten cows will be back at around Easter with this year's ten new calves and they will remain on the Meadows, as usual, until well into the autumn.
Volunteers
The Trustees will be arranging a volunteer day on a Saturday in April to help in clearing unwanted material from the site and cutting back years of neglect to the hedgerows. Would those wanting to contribute in this positive way to the environmental improvement of the meadows, please contact the Trust?
The Trust has been very active over recent months on environmental improvements and in planning the next major projects. Full details are given below. The Trustees were gratified to hear a leading landscape architect say recently that the Meadows have not looked so good for at least 50 years. The Trust is well on the path to achieve its aims but funds are still urgently needed to enable us to hand on this special part of London to future generations in good order. I hope that you will support our exciting fund raising programme to bring the achievement of our aims ever closer
Fund Raising
The main events for 2004 are outlined here.
June 20: Chris Brasher Memorial Run
Chris Brasher died last year, and it is appropriate that a 10k memorial run, with additional mile races for children will be held in Richmond Park on June 20 in celebration of his life. It was exactly 40 years ago that Chris Brasher bought a house in River Lane, Petersham. The area had plenty of appeal to Chris and his family, close to Richmond Park where he enjoyed running, only 12 miles from London, yet cows grazed on Petersham Meadows and the pleasure of the historic view from Richmond Hills.
There will be a Pre-Run Dinner with a Charity Auction at the Richmond Hill Hotel on June 19. A number of famous sports stars are expected to be present including Sir Roger Bannister and Sir Christopher Chataway. Proceeds from the two events, which are organised by Hugh Brasher, son of Chris, will be donated to the Petersham Trust. Chris was Chairman of the Trust until his death and the Trustees have cooperated and advised on the two Events. Chris Brasher gave generously of his time and money, together with other local residents, to preserve the special amenities of Petersham for generations to come. The Trust is committed to carry on this ideal and money is still required complete the work to Petersham Meadows. It is hoped that many local residents will wish to take part in the run and attend the Dinner. The Children's races will be only for those resident in Boroughs bordering Richmond Park - Richmond, Kingston and Wandsworth. Age groups will range from 10-16 years with special prizes donated by the Chris Brasher Trust for individual and schools participation.
March 6/7
Petersham Nursery, just behind St. Peter's Church off the Petersham Road, are mounting a special display of 7,500 crocuses and are donating the entrance fee of £2.00 to the Petersham Trust. This will be a spectacular event open from 10.00 -16.00 and well worth supporting.
May 29/30
The Trustees have persuaded homeowners in Petersham Village to open their gardens to the general public. The cost of the £5.00 ticket will allow entry to all participating gardens, some grand - some not so grand - but all interesting. All proceeds to Petersham Trust. Full details will follow.
Buildings
Many of you will have seen that the dilapidated 1920s barn and ancillary buildings have been demolished and plans are in hand, with a leading Conservation Architect practice, to restore and conserve the unique Milking Parlour. The Trustees are anxious to press on with this project as quickly as possible. Full details will follow in the next Newsletter.
Tree Strategy
The Meadows still show signs of the neglect of tree stock and hedgerows over several decades. The Trustees plan, this year, to plant several landmark trees to enhance the view from Richmond Hill. These will include Oaks, Cedars of Lebanon and London Planes. The work will also involve extensive hedge planting and repair with the same objective. The effect of last year's substantial remedial work will become more evident as this year progresses. The regular maintenance programme continues.
Fencing, Gates and Paths
The work on replacing the fences with high quality chestnut post and rail is well advanced and will be finally completed this year. The new gates giving improved access, especially to wheel chairs and push chairs have been a great success. The Trust hopes to reach agreement soon with Richmond Council on the re-surfacing of the public footpaths.
The Cows
The usual herd of ten cows will be back at around Easter with this year's ten new calves and they will remain on the Meadows, as usual, until well into the autumn.
Volunteers
The Trustees will be arranging a volunteer day on a Saturday in April to help in clearing unwanted material from the site and cutting back years of neglect to the hedgerows. Would those wanting to contribute in this positive way to the environmental improvement of the meadows, please contact the Trust?
PETERSHAM TRUST NEWSLETTER october 2003
Petersham Meadow is a key element in the famous view of the River Thames from Richmond Hill. The aim of the Petersham Trust is to preserve it intact for posterity. Please Help
But isn't the view protected by a special Act of Parliament?
Yes it is and that Act has been invaluable in preventing, for example, any risk of building development. But the Act does not provide resources for maintaining the meadow or the trees or the cattle. Farming the land is no longer commercially viable and the owners, Richmond Council, have many other demands on their services. So in 2001 the land was leased to the newly-formed Petersham Trust for it to care for on behalf of the community.
A special issue
The Trust's Newsletters are intended to keep donors and friends informed about the recent developments and plans. This issue has a wider purpose: to tell all local residents and visitors about the aims and work of the Trust and to seek their support.
Progress and Plans
Over the last 18 months the Trust has:
Trees
Over the summer the Trust has carried out a long overdue programme of tree maintenance which has greatly improved the Meadow's appearance. This is the first phase of a systematic five-year programme to care for the existing trees, and to replant where appropriate, to enhance the view to and from Richmond Hill.
Gates and Fences
The public footpath now has two new wheelchair-friendly kissing gates to allow access to all for the first time. Fence renewal and replacement continues apace.
Buildings
In April 2003 the Trust obtained planning consent to demolish the delapidated barn and outbuildings. Changes to our lease agreement with Richmond Council were required and these too have now been agreed. The work will begin as soon as the cows go to their winter quarters. After the demolition, work will start on the renovation of the Milking Parlour, an evocative reminder of the 19th century farming methods. More details of the parlour plans will be given in the next newsletter.
National Trust
Over recent months, the Trust has been developing a closer relationship with the National Trust and is greatly benefiting from access the their expertise and guidance
Funding
The Trustees have held long and detailed negotiations with the Heritage Lottery Board, and after considerable thought have decided not to go ahead with their bid for the time being. Any grant that may have been forthcoming would have been accompanied by a number of stipulations and restrictions with which the Trustees and the National Trust might have had difficulty in complying. The Trustees are sure that the funds needed to achieve their objectives can, with strenuous efforts, be found elsewhere and they are actively pursuing various other fund holders whose criteria are consistent with the Trust's aims.
Ha-ha suggestion
The Environment Agency takes a particular interest in the meadow because it is almost the only remaining flood meadow in the tidal reaches of the Thames. They have raised the possibility of replacing the concrete wall between the meadow and the towpath with a ha-ha (a deep ditch). The Trust would welcome comments on this.
But isn't the view protected by a special Act of Parliament?
Yes it is and that Act has been invaluable in preventing, for example, any risk of building development. But the Act does not provide resources for maintaining the meadow or the trees or the cattle. Farming the land is no longer commercially viable and the owners, Richmond Council, have many other demands on their services. So in 2001 the land was leased to the newly-formed Petersham Trust for it to care for on behalf of the community.
A special issue
The Trust's Newsletters are intended to keep donors and friends informed about the recent developments and plans. This issue has a wider purpose: to tell all local residents and visitors about the aims and work of the Trust and to seek their support.
Progress and Plans
- A promising start has been made on our tree care program.
- New kissing gates have been installed and the fencing program continues.
- The old farm sheds will be demolished this winter, and plans are in hand for restoring the milking parlour.
- Cattle again grazed contentedly on the meadow all summer.
- The idea of replacing the river wall with a ha-ha has been suggested by the Environment Agency.
- The Trustees have decided not to go ahead with a lottery funding bid at present and are pursuing alternatives.
Over the last 18 months the Trust has:
- Tidied the site removing many tons of rubbish.
- Carried out environmental improvements to the River Lane Draw Dock area, the car park area by the Petersham Nursery, the ground on which the River Lane toilets once stood and the area adjacent to Buccleuch Gardens.
Trees
Over the summer the Trust has carried out a long overdue programme of tree maintenance which has greatly improved the Meadow's appearance. This is the first phase of a systematic five-year programme to care for the existing trees, and to replant where appropriate, to enhance the view to and from Richmond Hill.
Gates and Fences
The public footpath now has two new wheelchair-friendly kissing gates to allow access to all for the first time. Fence renewal and replacement continues apace.
Buildings
In April 2003 the Trust obtained planning consent to demolish the delapidated barn and outbuildings. Changes to our lease agreement with Richmond Council were required and these too have now been agreed. The work will begin as soon as the cows go to their winter quarters. After the demolition, work will start on the renovation of the Milking Parlour, an evocative reminder of the 19th century farming methods. More details of the parlour plans will be given in the next newsletter.
National Trust
Over recent months, the Trust has been developing a closer relationship with the National Trust and is greatly benefiting from access the their expertise and guidance
Funding
The Trustees have held long and detailed negotiations with the Heritage Lottery Board, and after considerable thought have decided not to go ahead with their bid for the time being. Any grant that may have been forthcoming would have been accompanied by a number of stipulations and restrictions with which the Trustees and the National Trust might have had difficulty in complying. The Trustees are sure that the funds needed to achieve their objectives can, with strenuous efforts, be found elsewhere and they are actively pursuing various other fund holders whose criteria are consistent with the Trust's aims.
Ha-ha suggestion
The Environment Agency takes a particular interest in the meadow because it is almost the only remaining flood meadow in the tidal reaches of the Thames. They have raised the possibility of replacing the concrete wall between the meadow and the towpath with a ha-ha (a deep ditch). The Trust would welcome comments on this.
PETERSHAM TRUST NEWSLETTER april 2003
Message from the Chairman, Graham Ball
I take this opportunity to honour the memory of the late Chris Brasher. The Trust has enjoyed the advantage of Chris's boundless energy, unquenchable commitment, his eclectic circle of contacts and not least his considerable financial contribution. The Trust could not have become the successful venture it is, without him. One does not get to know many truly great men but I feel privileged to have known one in Chris. The Trustees remain committed to build on the foundation of Chris's efforts and ensure the Trust's aims are realised. Much has already been achieved and plans are well advanced to bring the venture to a successful conclusion.
The Trust has suffered a double blow in losing the considerable talents of the late David Church. His wise counsel will be greatly missed. Freda Hyde Cllr Frances Bouchier, Sylvia Peile have been appointed as new Trustees.
Heritage Lottery Bid
The Trust submitted its first stage Project Development bid on 6 January 2003 with the decision overdue. The delay is very frustrating as it is slowing down the Trust's work in many areas. All the signs are positive and the Trustees are confident of the outcome.
Meadows
Thistles and other weeds have taken hold mainly due to over grazing in the past and the land is being treated, this Spring, with approved herbicides to enhance the quality of the grass and hold back the weed growth before the cows return during April.
Buildings
The Conservation Area Consent Application requesting permission to demolish the dilapidated barn and outbuildings has been made to Richmond Council.
Fences and Gates
Work will shortly be carried out to repair and replace the rest of the Trust's fences and build the second kissing gate with wheelchair access.
Trees
The Trustees have commissioned a medium term Tree Management Study to ensure that healthy trees are maintained and correct replanting and tree regeneration plans are adopted. This will help to ensure that the view from Richmond Hill is enhanced.
National Trust
The Petersham Trust is developing a deeper and wider relationship with the National Trust and their support and expertise is of great benefit.
Fund Raising
The Trust still needs funds to secure the endowment that will achieve its objectives. These are to ensure the future of the cows in the Meadows and the Meadows themselves as part of the matchless view from Richmond Hill.
Our high profile activities continue with a Fun Run in Richmond Park being organised for June 2004 by Hugh Brasher to be called the Chris Brasher Memorial Fun Run with the Trust being the main beneficiary.
I take this opportunity to honour the memory of the late Chris Brasher. The Trust has enjoyed the advantage of Chris's boundless energy, unquenchable commitment, his eclectic circle of contacts and not least his considerable financial contribution. The Trust could not have become the successful venture it is, without him. One does not get to know many truly great men but I feel privileged to have known one in Chris. The Trustees remain committed to build on the foundation of Chris's efforts and ensure the Trust's aims are realised. Much has already been achieved and plans are well advanced to bring the venture to a successful conclusion.
The Trust has suffered a double blow in losing the considerable talents of the late David Church. His wise counsel will be greatly missed. Freda Hyde Cllr Frances Bouchier, Sylvia Peile have been appointed as new Trustees.
Heritage Lottery Bid
The Trust submitted its first stage Project Development bid on 6 January 2003 with the decision overdue. The delay is very frustrating as it is slowing down the Trust's work in many areas. All the signs are positive and the Trustees are confident of the outcome.
Meadows
Thistles and other weeds have taken hold mainly due to over grazing in the past and the land is being treated, this Spring, with approved herbicides to enhance the quality of the grass and hold back the weed growth before the cows return during April.
Buildings
The Conservation Area Consent Application requesting permission to demolish the dilapidated barn and outbuildings has been made to Richmond Council.
Fences and Gates
Work will shortly be carried out to repair and replace the rest of the Trust's fences and build the second kissing gate with wheelchair access.
Trees
The Trustees have commissioned a medium term Tree Management Study to ensure that healthy trees are maintained and correct replanting and tree regeneration plans are adopted. This will help to ensure that the view from Richmond Hill is enhanced.
National Trust
The Petersham Trust is developing a deeper and wider relationship with the National Trust and their support and expertise is of great benefit.
Fund Raising
The Trust still needs funds to secure the endowment that will achieve its objectives. These are to ensure the future of the cows in the Meadows and the Meadows themselves as part of the matchless view from Richmond Hill.
Our high profile activities continue with a Fun Run in Richmond Park being organised for June 2004 by Hugh Brasher to be called the Chris Brasher Memorial Fun Run with the Trust being the main beneficiary.
PETERSHAM TRUST NEWSLETTER february 2003
Message from the Chairman, Chris Brasher
I thank the Ham & Petersham Association for this chance to update you on the Petersham Trust. The Petersham Trust concept grew from the famous public meeting in the Petersham Village Hall in January 1997 deciding to take action to ensure that the priceless asset of Petersham Meadows was kept for future generations to enjoy. The Meadows, with its sense of rural tranquillity, is the essential cornerstone of the matchless view from Richmond Hill valued by us all. The Trust's long struggle to negotiate a lease with Richmond Council was finally successful on 30 October 2001.
Since then, the Trust has made an agreement to maintain a good quality herd on the Meadows for eight months a year. The considerable task of preparing the first stage of the Heritage Lottery bid has been completed.
I want to see the herd back flourishing in the well maintained Meadows all year round but winter quartering is very expensive and is presently beyond our means but that remains my goal. I hope that people of Ham & Petersham and beyond share my vision and will help the Trust to carry out its present plans and then achieve an all year herd arrangement by making a donation at the above address.
Work Programme
The Trust plans to demolish the dilapidated outbuildings and barn that detract from the view while restoring the 1880 Milking Parlour that retains most of its original features. We are very fortunate to have inherited one of last remaining links to London's agricultural past. The Trust believes it has a duty to pass this inheritance to succeeding generations. A request to have Grade II listed status for the Milking Parlour has been made to help secure this aim.
The fencing and gates are presently being renewed. The Trust is preparing a long-term land and tree management plan to ensure that the Meadows will be improved. Guidance from the National Trust has been of great benefit to the Trust's work.
The Trust wants to create a small scale heritage and education facility based upon the restored Milking Parlour and the agricultural environment that grazing herd gives. Care will be taken to ensure that this project will be handled in a very sensitive manner with only small groups visiting after first having made an appointment.
Heritage Lottery Bid
The initial bid has been made to the Heritage Lottery Fund to assist in the financing of the immediate and medium term projects.
I thank the Ham & Petersham Association for this chance to update you on the Petersham Trust. The Petersham Trust concept grew from the famous public meeting in the Petersham Village Hall in January 1997 deciding to take action to ensure that the priceless asset of Petersham Meadows was kept for future generations to enjoy. The Meadows, with its sense of rural tranquillity, is the essential cornerstone of the matchless view from Richmond Hill valued by us all. The Trust's long struggle to negotiate a lease with Richmond Council was finally successful on 30 October 2001.
Since then, the Trust has made an agreement to maintain a good quality herd on the Meadows for eight months a year. The considerable task of preparing the first stage of the Heritage Lottery bid has been completed.
I want to see the herd back flourishing in the well maintained Meadows all year round but winter quartering is very expensive and is presently beyond our means but that remains my goal. I hope that people of Ham & Petersham and beyond share my vision and will help the Trust to carry out its present plans and then achieve an all year herd arrangement by making a donation at the above address.
Work Programme
The Trust plans to demolish the dilapidated outbuildings and barn that detract from the view while restoring the 1880 Milking Parlour that retains most of its original features. We are very fortunate to have inherited one of last remaining links to London's agricultural past. The Trust believes it has a duty to pass this inheritance to succeeding generations. A request to have Grade II listed status for the Milking Parlour has been made to help secure this aim.
The fencing and gates are presently being renewed. The Trust is preparing a long-term land and tree management plan to ensure that the Meadows will be improved. Guidance from the National Trust has been of great benefit to the Trust's work.
The Trust wants to create a small scale heritage and education facility based upon the restored Milking Parlour and the agricultural environment that grazing herd gives. Care will be taken to ensure that this project will be handled in a very sensitive manner with only small groups visiting after first having made an appointment.
Heritage Lottery Bid
The initial bid has been made to the Heritage Lottery Fund to assist in the financing of the immediate and medium term projects.
PETERSHAM TRUST NEWSLETTER november 2002
Heritage Lottery Bid
The Trustees has been negotiating with the Heritage Lottery Board to obtain their support in achieving the Trust's objectives of retaining cows grazing on Petersham Meadows for future generations to enjoy. The first indications are very encouraging. A full bid will be submitted very soon and you will be kept informed of its progress. This has been made possible by the donations that have enabled the Trust to have the essential matching funds.
More funds are urgently needed to secure the endowment sum that will guarantee the meadows' future. At present, the agreed objectives are to maintain a summer grazing regime for about eight months a year. This would be for about three years. The Trust would restore, the Milking Parlour and build a small barn. The Trust's aspiration remains to have a Petersham Meadows herd present all year round, a full size barn and educational facilities. Another Heritage Lottery Bid will be made to achieve this in due course.
Land Management
Progress on gate and fence work has been delayed until the Trust received confirmation that the costs would be counted as matching funding by the Heritage Lottery Board. This confirmation has been obtained and work will be put in hand over the Winter. A new kissing gate that will allow wheelchair access at Buccleugh Gardens will soon be built and a matching gate at the St. Peter's entrance will follow. The cows have now gone for the Winter and will return next spring. This will allow the land to rest and for essential work to be carried out to combat invasive scrub and weeds. Essential tree surgery will continue over the Winter.
Buildings
The dilapidated condition of the barn and outbuildings has been a concern since the Trust took over the lease. Negotiations are in hand with Richmond Council to have these demolished. At the same time, the Trustees are also seeking to have the Milking Parlour listed as a historically important building. Listed status improves the chances of the Heritage Lottery Bid being successful.
The Trustees has been negotiating with the Heritage Lottery Board to obtain their support in achieving the Trust's objectives of retaining cows grazing on Petersham Meadows for future generations to enjoy. The first indications are very encouraging. A full bid will be submitted very soon and you will be kept informed of its progress. This has been made possible by the donations that have enabled the Trust to have the essential matching funds.
More funds are urgently needed to secure the endowment sum that will guarantee the meadows' future. At present, the agreed objectives are to maintain a summer grazing regime for about eight months a year. This would be for about three years. The Trust would restore, the Milking Parlour and build a small barn. The Trust's aspiration remains to have a Petersham Meadows herd present all year round, a full size barn and educational facilities. Another Heritage Lottery Bid will be made to achieve this in due course.
Land Management
Progress on gate and fence work has been delayed until the Trust received confirmation that the costs would be counted as matching funding by the Heritage Lottery Board. This confirmation has been obtained and work will be put in hand over the Winter. A new kissing gate that will allow wheelchair access at Buccleugh Gardens will soon be built and a matching gate at the St. Peter's entrance will follow. The cows have now gone for the Winter and will return next spring. This will allow the land to rest and for essential work to be carried out to combat invasive scrub and weeds. Essential tree surgery will continue over the Winter.
Buildings
The dilapidated condition of the barn and outbuildings has been a concern since the Trust took over the lease. Negotiations are in hand with Richmond Council to have these demolished. At the same time, the Trustees are also seeking to have the Milking Parlour listed as a historically important building. Listed status improves the chances of the Heritage Lottery Bid being successful.
PETERSHAM TRUST NEWSLETTER september 2002
Message from the Chairman, Chris Brasher
The Trust has been very busy since our sending the Spring Newsletter. Many of you will have enjoyed seeing the herd grazing on the Meadows looking healthy and well cared for. They will return to their winter quarters later in the year once the nutrients in the grass can no longer sustain grazing. Substantial work has been carried out on the land to clear the accumulated clutter and to carry out essential fencing repairs. Through the summer, the Meadows were looking better than for some time. The unrelenting struggle with thistles and other weeds has taken a significant effort. I was encouraged by the excellent turn out from volunteers on our June thistle-cutting day. Trustees hope to apply a more permanent solution for the next season.
Our objectives remain to replace the dilapidated buildings to accommodate an all year round Petersham Meadow herd and to restore the 1880s milking parlour. The funds needed to meet these objectives are considerable. The number of donors and the extent of their generosity have heartened Trustees. However, more is needed to enable Trustees to establish the endowment that will totally secure the future and allow future generations to enjoy this haven of rural tranquillity in an urban setting.
The high level of support in the project reassures Trustees that their efforts continue to gain widespread support. The Trustees are having to concentrate upon planning and preparation work meaning that the fruits of these efforts are not immediately obvious. Much of this preparation is related to the Heritage Lottery Bid, discussed in detail below.
Again, many thanks for generous support and hope that this support will continue to enable us to meet our objectives.
Heritage Lottery Bid
The Thames Landscape Strategy project has submitted a Heritage Lottery Bid under the title "Arcadia in the City" to cover improvement schemes along the Thames from Kew to Hampton. The Petersham Trust is preparing its own bid in parallel to the Arcadia bid. The bid preparation and submission process is protracted. Happily, the Trust is now just about to submit its bid. The bid will cover the fulfilment of the Trust's aims to ensure Petersham Meadows retains its atmosphere of rural tranquillity as the cornerstone of the Richmond Hill view and to rebuild and restore the farm buildings to capitalise upon their heritage and educational potential. The total project cost is over £1,000,000 and the Trust needs to have matching funds available to secure the bid. The costs reflect the Trust's desire to have buildings and a project of a standard in keeping with the matchless surroundings and the high donor expectation.
The Trustees have to bear in mind that any expenditure carried out before the Heritage Lottery Bid has been approved cannot be counted towards matching funds. The Trustees are loath to incur expenditure that could reasonably by financed by the money from the Lottery Bid. This prudent approach has meant that repair work, such as kissing gate replacement. has been delayed much longer than the Trustees would have wished.
Re-Building and Restoration
The Trust' plans are being finalised after a far-reaching and detailed evaluation. The Trust plans to demolish the dilapidated barn and ancillary outbuildings and replace them by an enlarged barn that remains within the confines of the existing footprint. The barn would be constructed from high quality traditional materials to be in keeping with the importance and sensitivity of the site. The barn would be multi functional, being a flexible educational and heritage resource as well as being the winter quarters for the herd. The milking parlour retains the ambience of its original setting. So it would be cleaned, renovated but not re-built and used to illustrate dairy farming principles by means of static and inter-active displays. Economic realities dictate that we cannot sustain a dairy herd on the farm so the herd would consist of beef cattle.
Fund Raising
The Trustees will benefit from some high profile events such as next spring's art auction of views from Richmond Hill by modern painters. A generous patron of the Thames Landscape Strategy has made this possible.
Other events are being discussed and full details will be given when available. In the meantime, we appeal to all those interested in securing the future of this priceless asset to help us by sending a donation.
New Web Site
The foundations of the Trust's website are now in place. We invite you to visit it to keep abreast news of the Trust's activities. Building work is ongoing on the site and it is updated regularly with relevant data. The web address is: www.petershammeadows.org
The Trust has been very busy since our sending the Spring Newsletter. Many of you will have enjoyed seeing the herd grazing on the Meadows looking healthy and well cared for. They will return to their winter quarters later in the year once the nutrients in the grass can no longer sustain grazing. Substantial work has been carried out on the land to clear the accumulated clutter and to carry out essential fencing repairs. Through the summer, the Meadows were looking better than for some time. The unrelenting struggle with thistles and other weeds has taken a significant effort. I was encouraged by the excellent turn out from volunteers on our June thistle-cutting day. Trustees hope to apply a more permanent solution for the next season.
Our objectives remain to replace the dilapidated buildings to accommodate an all year round Petersham Meadow herd and to restore the 1880s milking parlour. The funds needed to meet these objectives are considerable. The number of donors and the extent of their generosity have heartened Trustees. However, more is needed to enable Trustees to establish the endowment that will totally secure the future and allow future generations to enjoy this haven of rural tranquillity in an urban setting.
The high level of support in the project reassures Trustees that their efforts continue to gain widespread support. The Trustees are having to concentrate upon planning and preparation work meaning that the fruits of these efforts are not immediately obvious. Much of this preparation is related to the Heritage Lottery Bid, discussed in detail below.
Again, many thanks for generous support and hope that this support will continue to enable us to meet our objectives.
Heritage Lottery Bid
The Thames Landscape Strategy project has submitted a Heritage Lottery Bid under the title "Arcadia in the City" to cover improvement schemes along the Thames from Kew to Hampton. The Petersham Trust is preparing its own bid in parallel to the Arcadia bid. The bid preparation and submission process is protracted. Happily, the Trust is now just about to submit its bid. The bid will cover the fulfilment of the Trust's aims to ensure Petersham Meadows retains its atmosphere of rural tranquillity as the cornerstone of the Richmond Hill view and to rebuild and restore the farm buildings to capitalise upon their heritage and educational potential. The total project cost is over £1,000,000 and the Trust needs to have matching funds available to secure the bid. The costs reflect the Trust's desire to have buildings and a project of a standard in keeping with the matchless surroundings and the high donor expectation.
The Trustees have to bear in mind that any expenditure carried out before the Heritage Lottery Bid has been approved cannot be counted towards matching funds. The Trustees are loath to incur expenditure that could reasonably by financed by the money from the Lottery Bid. This prudent approach has meant that repair work, such as kissing gate replacement. has been delayed much longer than the Trustees would have wished.
Re-Building and Restoration
The Trust' plans are being finalised after a far-reaching and detailed evaluation. The Trust plans to demolish the dilapidated barn and ancillary outbuildings and replace them by an enlarged barn that remains within the confines of the existing footprint. The barn would be constructed from high quality traditional materials to be in keeping with the importance and sensitivity of the site. The barn would be multi functional, being a flexible educational and heritage resource as well as being the winter quarters for the herd. The milking parlour retains the ambience of its original setting. So it would be cleaned, renovated but not re-built and used to illustrate dairy farming principles by means of static and inter-active displays. Economic realities dictate that we cannot sustain a dairy herd on the farm so the herd would consist of beef cattle.
Fund Raising
The Trustees will benefit from some high profile events such as next spring's art auction of views from Richmond Hill by modern painters. A generous patron of the Thames Landscape Strategy has made this possible.
Other events are being discussed and full details will be given when available. In the meantime, we appeal to all those interested in securing the future of this priceless asset to help us by sending a donation.
New Web Site
The foundations of the Trust's website are now in place. We invite you to visit it to keep abreast news of the Trust's activities. Building work is ongoing on the site and it is updated regularly with relevant data. The web address is: www.petershammeadows.org
PETERSHAM TRUST NEWSLETTER march 2002
Message from the Chairman, Chris Brasher
My first very pleasant duty is to thank everyone who has responded in such a generous way to our fundraising appeal. The response has been excellent and I am very heartened to see that so many living both far and near care so passionately about the value of the Meadow and unique amenity of cattle grazing in a pastoral setting within London itself. So far, we have raised £120,000 towards our target of £500,000
You will have seen that there are no cows currently grazing on the Meadows. The land has suffered from being over grazed in recent years and the professional advice was that we should let it rest and recover over the Winter. The good news is that the herd will return during April and stay until next Winter. The trust needs to be able to re-build the dilapidated barn and put a full scale husbandry regime in place before we can winter cattle at the farm. We have set ourselves the highest standards for all activities with the care of the cattle being a primary concern. Wintering cattle to an acceptable level will involve a level of expenditure which is beyond the Trust's immediate means. It remains our aim and intention to have a herd at the farm all year round as quickly as we can raise the funds to achieve this.
Your support and interest in our project is spurring me and my fellow Trustees on to ensure that the Meadows and its cattle herd will continue to be a joy to us and to future generations. Although there are no cows to be seen at the moment, this does not mean that we have been idle - far from it. The trustees are pleased to take this opportunity to share our plans, our aspirations and a report on the progress to date with you. I thank you again for your support and you will be seeing the fruits of that support over the Summer
Future Plans
The principal objective remains to preserve the cornerstone of the world famous view from Richmond Hill while retaining cattle grazing on the Meadow. The Trust also intends to restore the milking parlour as an educational and heritage feature to demonstrate, to future generations and the current one, how Petersham Meadows operated as a working dairy farm.
Aspirations
We envisage Petersham Meadows as both a valued amenity for local residents and visitors alike to enjoy the magnificent view in an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity engendered by the grazing cattle. We also want to give educational opportunities for children to learn about present day animal husbandry and the farm's historical context. The Meadows have a collection of flora and fauna unique to London for the interest of and the study by serious botanists. We will ensure that the buildings on the Meadows do not receive large numbers of visitors as this would run the risk of disturbing the delicate ecological balance of the area and harm the sense of peace and tranquillity that we are pledged to conserve.
Administrator
The Trust has appointed Brian Miller to be our part time administrator. Brian has been involved in the project since 1996 and was a Trustee from the Trust's inception in 1998 to 2002.
Progress to Date
The site had accumulated many years of clutter in the form of obsolete equipment and scrap. This has now been cleared away and matters are in hand to make the fences secure for the herd when it arrives. Work is also being carried out to remove the invasive scrub that detracts from the world famous view and the enjoyment of the Meadows.
We have commissioned a respected local architect who specialises in conservation projects to present a scheme to rebuild the barn and the nondescript associated buildings as well as to renovate and restore the milking parlour.
We have made an agreement with a local farmer to place a small herd of cows with calves on the Meadows for this season while we finalise our schemes and continue our fund raising efforts to secure the money required to realise our ambitions. The medium term objective is to establish a Petersham Meadows herd as soon as it is practicable which will be grazing all year round.
Fundraising
The Trust is working upon a Heritage Lottery Fund bid to help finance our aspirations and plans. We are being encouraged and helped by the National Trust who manage Ham House. We are also working closely with the Arcadia in the City project and the Thames Landscape Strategy which have plans to conserve and improve the Thames Landscape between Kew and Hampton Court.
Petersham Meadows are the corner stone of the renowned Thames views and these organisations recognise that our work is an essential part of their overall plans. Approaches are also being made to local and national fund holders. The Trust will participate at both the Richmond May Fair and the Ham Fair to increase awareness of the project and to raise the profile of the fund raising activities. Approaches will be made to local businesses to whom the view across the Meadows is an attraction.
Communication
Besides telephone and e-mail, the Trust is building its own web site. You will receive full details once the site is opened. It is our intention to build links to the web sites of other local amenity groups and with those who share our aims and interests. The web site address will be www.petershammeadows.org The web site will be constantly kept up to date.
Raffle
The Trust is going to raffle the original of the painting by Elizabeth Morton of the view from Richmond Hill over Petersham Meadows shown on the fund raising brochure. Full details will follow in the next newsletter.
Trust Logo
The Trust plans to organise a competition for local schools to design a logo for the Trust for its letter heading and publicity. More news will be forthcoming later in the year.
Data Protection
As a matter of policy, the Trust does not share its address list with anyone nor would it divulge any data without first asking permission. Should anyone like to be removed from the mailing list, please advise us.
We will be writing to you on a regular basis to keep you fully informed of our progress. Should you know of others who would be interested in supporting Petersham Meadows, please give us the names and addresses so that we can forward full information.
My first very pleasant duty is to thank everyone who has responded in such a generous way to our fundraising appeal. The response has been excellent and I am very heartened to see that so many living both far and near care so passionately about the value of the Meadow and unique amenity of cattle grazing in a pastoral setting within London itself. So far, we have raised £120,000 towards our target of £500,000
You will have seen that there are no cows currently grazing on the Meadows. The land has suffered from being over grazed in recent years and the professional advice was that we should let it rest and recover over the Winter. The good news is that the herd will return during April and stay until next Winter. The trust needs to be able to re-build the dilapidated barn and put a full scale husbandry regime in place before we can winter cattle at the farm. We have set ourselves the highest standards for all activities with the care of the cattle being a primary concern. Wintering cattle to an acceptable level will involve a level of expenditure which is beyond the Trust's immediate means. It remains our aim and intention to have a herd at the farm all year round as quickly as we can raise the funds to achieve this.
Your support and interest in our project is spurring me and my fellow Trustees on to ensure that the Meadows and its cattle herd will continue to be a joy to us and to future generations. Although there are no cows to be seen at the moment, this does not mean that we have been idle - far from it. The trustees are pleased to take this opportunity to share our plans, our aspirations and a report on the progress to date with you. I thank you again for your support and you will be seeing the fruits of that support over the Summer
Future Plans
The principal objective remains to preserve the cornerstone of the world famous view from Richmond Hill while retaining cattle grazing on the Meadow. The Trust also intends to restore the milking parlour as an educational and heritage feature to demonstrate, to future generations and the current one, how Petersham Meadows operated as a working dairy farm.
Aspirations
We envisage Petersham Meadows as both a valued amenity for local residents and visitors alike to enjoy the magnificent view in an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity engendered by the grazing cattle. We also want to give educational opportunities for children to learn about present day animal husbandry and the farm's historical context. The Meadows have a collection of flora and fauna unique to London for the interest of and the study by serious botanists. We will ensure that the buildings on the Meadows do not receive large numbers of visitors as this would run the risk of disturbing the delicate ecological balance of the area and harm the sense of peace and tranquillity that we are pledged to conserve.
Administrator
The Trust has appointed Brian Miller to be our part time administrator. Brian has been involved in the project since 1996 and was a Trustee from the Trust's inception in 1998 to 2002.
Progress to Date
The site had accumulated many years of clutter in the form of obsolete equipment and scrap. This has now been cleared away and matters are in hand to make the fences secure for the herd when it arrives. Work is also being carried out to remove the invasive scrub that detracts from the world famous view and the enjoyment of the Meadows.
We have commissioned a respected local architect who specialises in conservation projects to present a scheme to rebuild the barn and the nondescript associated buildings as well as to renovate and restore the milking parlour.
We have made an agreement with a local farmer to place a small herd of cows with calves on the Meadows for this season while we finalise our schemes and continue our fund raising efforts to secure the money required to realise our ambitions. The medium term objective is to establish a Petersham Meadows herd as soon as it is practicable which will be grazing all year round.
Fundraising
The Trust is working upon a Heritage Lottery Fund bid to help finance our aspirations and plans. We are being encouraged and helped by the National Trust who manage Ham House. We are also working closely with the Arcadia in the City project and the Thames Landscape Strategy which have plans to conserve and improve the Thames Landscape between Kew and Hampton Court.
Petersham Meadows are the corner stone of the renowned Thames views and these organisations recognise that our work is an essential part of their overall plans. Approaches are also being made to local and national fund holders. The Trust will participate at both the Richmond May Fair and the Ham Fair to increase awareness of the project and to raise the profile of the fund raising activities. Approaches will be made to local businesses to whom the view across the Meadows is an attraction.
Communication
Besides telephone and e-mail, the Trust is building its own web site. You will receive full details once the site is opened. It is our intention to build links to the web sites of other local amenity groups and with those who share our aims and interests. The web site address will be www.petershammeadows.org The web site will be constantly kept up to date.
Raffle
The Trust is going to raffle the original of the painting by Elizabeth Morton of the view from Richmond Hill over Petersham Meadows shown on the fund raising brochure. Full details will follow in the next newsletter.
Trust Logo
The Trust plans to organise a competition for local schools to design a logo for the Trust for its letter heading and publicity. More news will be forthcoming later in the year.
Data Protection
As a matter of policy, the Trust does not share its address list with anyone nor would it divulge any data without first asking permission. Should anyone like to be removed from the mailing list, please advise us.
We will be writing to you on a regular basis to keep you fully informed of our progress. Should you know of others who would be interested in supporting Petersham Meadows, please give us the names and addresses so that we can forward full information.
