Land of the Fanns Conference

We were treated to fascinating talks at the Land of the Fanns Conference on Wednesday 24 November when 40 attendees from partner and project delivery organisations gathered together to share project updates and news from the Landscape Partnership Scheme.

Phil Lobley – Essex Gardens Trust Volunteer

Ian Mercer – Essex Rock and Mineral Society

Volunteer Phil Lobley told us about the Fifty Fabulous Features publication produced with Essex Garden Trust and the intriguing discovery at Belhus Park with Historic England where the remains of a Tudor garden have been uncovered. Thames21 gave details of the river restoration projects along the Rom and Mardyke and Essex Rock and Mineral Society explained the geology of the Fanns.

The impact of the Land of the Fanns funding at Weald Country Park was explored and the micro landscapes of West Thurrock Marshes were highlighted by Essex Wildlife Trust and the Land Trust. The restored Woodman statue now sited at Langdon Hills was celebrated and Dave Bigden, Director of Thames Chase Trust set out the legacy of the Land of the Fanns as it comes to a conclusion in 2022.

Bob Rigden – Friends of Langdon Hills Country Park

A walk around the Broadfields site led by Forestry England, including the Thames Chase Community Tree Nursery completed the day.

Alex Hewitt – Thames Chase Trust Community Tree Nursery

Sally James, Georgina Ellis & Richard Wonfor – Forestry England, Broadfields

Thank you to the speakers and to all that attended. It was great to be together again and share so much inspiring and exciting work. We hope everyone enjoyed the day and learnt a more about the projects Land of the Fanns have been a part of over the last couple of years!