A BIG crowd of South Coast nature lovers celebrated the gorgeous first day of spring by spending it outdoors in beautiful surrounds, taking part in an enjoyable Walking in Nature ramble.
This special spring celebration was hosted by the Trafalgar Conservation Group at Selsdon Park, the home of the well-known Brand family. Mark Brand had kindly prepared the route, consulting the organisers and mowing the pathways chosen for the ramble.
It was a beautiful route, taking walkers through many patches of pristine natural forest, through sections of well-maintained wetlands and alongside healthy waterways. Although the terrain was hilly, with some fairly steep uphill sections, it was not too difficult and the marvellous inland and sea views made the climbs well worth while.
An added attraction was the chance to meet some of the farm’s unusual four-footed residents, the Brands’ magnificent Percheron draft horses. They were happily munching hay in a paddock near the start of the ramble but interrupted their breakfast to walk over the the fence to encourage the walkers.
Another treat for ramblers was the chance to see one of the South Coast’s most renowned gardens. Green-fingered Anne Brand created and maintains the lovely garden at Selsdon Park. Magnificent mature trees are probably the main feature of this well laid-our green creation.
Anne has also used bright colour, striking sub-tropical and tropical form plants, tall palm trees, a perfectly manicured lawn, flowing lines and plenty of interesting little corners to create her tropical paradise. Ramblers were not surprised to learn that the garden had been featured in a number of gardening magazines and had earned its owner many awards.
Local conservancies and environmental organisations are invited to host 5km to 8km Walking in Nature rambles as fund-raisers. Contact David Hallé at 082 300 4283 with your ideas.
