Tower and Town, April 2020 (view the full edition)Savernake FencesIn the February 2020 edition of Tower and Town we learned that cattle were being reintroduced into Savernake Forest to help control the unwanted undergrowth; but what of the fences that contain the cattle? Two new fenced enclosures have been constructed and a third enlarged, and while the older fencing retains its fairly impenetrable character with limited access, the new work is far more 'forgiving' in understanding the needs of we visitors (and our dogs). The fencing itself has three strands of wire, the top two barbed, the bottom one plain and there is no netting, meaning animals can easily slip underneath as can young children and enterprising adults prepared to crawl. However crawling is not necessary as there are gates for every pathway, except one near the main gate. Further, as the contractors had to clear undergrowth to access their work, one can now follow the fences quite easily thus adding to our access. I freely admit that fences in lovely woodland are something of an offence (pun intended) to the eye and to the feeling of freedom and solitude, but if the concept behind the cattle rearing works, then the forest should slowly return to its former glory with open glades, beautiful uncrowded trees and much less of a tangle underfoot. But it will take a long time. The best wardens of Savernake in the past planted and planned for the future and never enjoyed the fruits of their visions. We may not see 'Savernake restored' but hopefully our grandchildren will. My new map of the forest, complete with fencing, is available at St Peter's Church and the White Horse Bookshop. Peter Noble |