Monthly Archives: December 2013

A calf called ‘Mary Christmas’

When William the Conqueror declared, in 1079AD, his intention to create a Nova Foresta, he did so because he wanted to establish a royal hunting park. However, the laws he created to protect the game also provided for the creation … Continue reading

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Turbary and Estovers: Even the hearthstone has rights!

Winter in the New Forest can be a magical time of year. The early morning frosts cover the landscape with a sparkling, sugar icing-like layer of white dust. As John Geddes remarked; ‘December’s wintery breath is already clouding the pond, … Continue reading

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Animal road casualty reports make grim statistics

The Verderers weekly reports of animal casualties on the Forest roads always make such grim reading. Each entry states the day, date, time, the animal involved – pony, cow, sheep, pig or donkey – and what happen to that animal. … Continue reading

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