East Hampshire votes with its feet for the South Downs National Park!
The South Downs Society has today announced a huge surge in support for the South Downs from people living in Emsworth, Petersfield, Liss and other parts of East Hampshire. In just a few months, the Society has been inundated with new members. It has launched a special programme of walks to meet the demand from residents wishing to explore the National Park.
A spokesman from the South Downs Society, Robert Self, who lives in Havant said “It’s no surprise to me that the South Downs are proving so popular. It’s one of the jewels in the crown of the English landscape, and they are free to enjoy.”
The Society is organizing four special short walks between now and April to some of the most spectacular parts of the National Park which are easy to reach from the towns of East Hampshire. Stansted Forest, Chalton Down, Old Idsworth, South Dean and Finchdean are featured on the programme, as are the spectacular tearooms at Stansted Park. Participants will also learn about some of the legends and history of the area, including the tragic tale of Jack Pitt the gunman.
The walks are all free and everyone is welcome. Walkers should wear sturdy walking shoes or boots, and bring a waterproof and something to drink.
The South Downs Society is a charity which campaigns to protect the beauty of the landscape and helps people to enjoy the National Park.