THE volunteer group who look after Melksham’s mini country park, Shurnhold Fields, are fundraising for a new mower after theirs stopped working earlier this year.
The group need to raise £850 to purchase the new machine to continue their work in maintaining the site of the former George Ward School playing fields in Dunch Lane.
“Although not designed for such a large area, our mower has been invaluable in keeping the walkways and memorial tree area cut,” says volunteer, Andy.
“Since we have been without a mower, we have been reliant upon the contractors to do a cut of the main walkways and for this we are grateful. The issue is around the other areas of trying to maintain the grass especially around the World War One memorial area. Any offers and support would be gratefully received.”
The Friends of Shurnhold Fields are responsible for cutting the grass, planting trees and bulbs and clearing ditches.
Just over a year ago, they were planning to close due to low volunteer numbers; however this changed when people came forward to help.
They have recently installed two information boards, one with details of endangered apple and pear tree varieties that have been planted and the other with historical information about World War One; this to accompany the 200 memorial trees that were planted in 2018 on the 100th anniversary of the ending of WWI to commemorate those who served and died from Melksham.
The group said they are hoping to create a car park big enough for 12 cars with the backing of Melksham Town Council and Melksham Without Parish Council. “Following discussions between the councils and environment agency, we should see some movement on this in the near future,” says Andy.
AGM
“We are also holding our AGM at the Melksham Without Parish Council meeting room at the Melksham Campus on Tuesday 14th November at 7pm – all are welcome, especially any new volunteers.”
For more information, contact Melksham Without Parish Council, via 01225 705700.
