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TRUST EXPLORES TREE SOLUTIONS FOR THE REC

Claygate’s thriving recreation ground is used by many thousands of residents and visitors every year, and is unusual in being run by a group of trustees. The Trust is responsible for keeping the park safe and accessible, as well as for preparing the football and cricket pitches. It manages the Claygate Pavilion and maintains the family garden, the multi-use games area and the woodland.

One serious issue it faces is the scourge of ash dieback. This disease, which is expected to kill more than 80 per cent of the ash trees in the UK, is badly affec􀀣ng trees in the woodland between the Rec, Foley Road and Claygate Primary School. Ash trees make up nearly three quarters of the wood and all will have to be felled and removed. Native European ash trees have no resistance to this fungus that came from Asia about 30 years ago.

The Trust is exploring options for replanting the woodland. It is eager to hear from residents who have ideas about how it should be done and about fundraising. The aim is to achieve a mix of native plan􀀣ng that will attract wildlife and retain the character of this patch of wilderness.

Elsewhere on the Rec, it is heartening to see the flourishing of the family garden, planted in 2022. It features multiple native species of trees, bushes and flowers and is now well used by the community.

OUTDOOR GYM/TRIM TRAIL

The Trust is sending a fundraising proposal to the National Lottery Fund and is working on another to Elmbridge Borough Council for a grant to build an outdoor gym or trim trail around the Rec. In last year’s resident survey run by the Parish Council, more than 600 people suggested an outdoor gym. Any resident able to make a contribution to fundraising can email amin@crgt.co.uk, or make a donation on its website https://www.claygaterecreationgroundtrust.org.uk/

BIG EVENTS ON THE REC THIS YEAR

• Claygate 5-mile run – July 6
• The Claygate Flower and Village Show – July 12
• Gig on the Rec: “Totally Elton” – July 13, 6pm

These long-standing community favourites are sure to attract big crowds!