Dear Roamers,
Thanks to those who alerted us that the Eventbrite link for A Fayre For All, our next event, wasn't working.
The correct link to sign up is here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-fayre-for-all-tickets-846039215067?aff=oddtdtcreator
Event details:
For 326 years the public have enjoyed free access to Cirencester Park – one of the largest open green spaces in Gloucestershire.
On March 15th, that freedom will end.
The Bathurst Estate is introducing a paywall for access, with outsiders charged £4 to go for a walk.
Join Right to Roam for a peaceful jamboree on the weekend the charges are introduced, as we contest the paywalling of the park and celebrate hundreds of years of community heritage.
We’ll hear from locals, historians and Right to Roam campaigners and resurrect some of the park’s great customs in a 'Fayre For All'.
(We won't be paying)
When Benjamin Bathurst bought the land in 1695, using profits directly derived from the slave trade, he opened the land to the public in perpetuity.
Perhaps the philanthropic gesture was to assuage his guilt at the source of his wealth, perhaps it was simply a way to gain political favour. Either way, the principle was upheld by successive generations of Bathursts, with numerous fêtes, camps, dances, foraging rituals and sporting events held in the park.
Despite its ownership, the Park has therefore always functioned as an open, community space. Community is its heritage. Meanwhile, its origins in the slave trade calls into question the moral legitimacy of exclusion.
Won't we be trespassing?
Technically, yes. But that's the absurdity of this situation: one day you're going for a walk, the next you're labelled a trespasser. Really we're just doing what we've always done: going for a peaceful wander in the park.
What do I need?
Bring appropriate footwear for a soggy spring wander, warm clothes, something for lunch - and perhaps something to share!
You may wish to bring a ground sheet, mat, or blanket to sit on at various points.
Can I bring dogs?
We ask you to leave doggo at home for this one.
Even when it was freely open the park only allowed dogs in certain areas and we're not here to contest dog management policies! Our furry friends can also add complication when we're here to make a wider point.
Can I bring children?
Sure, this is intended to be a peaceful, family-friendly event. If they're happy with a bit of walking and a few hours out in spring weather!
Getting There
We're putting on coaches from Swindon and Bristol. Otherwise Cirencester is well connected by public bus transport and via National Express.
Do try and arrive by one of these options to minimise car pressure. If driving is unavoidable, there is also parking available around the town. Please park respectfully.
Sign up to the Eventbrite for more information closer to the date.
Spring blessings,
Jon on behalf of the Right to Roam Team
To follow us on social media:
Twitter: @Right_2Roam
Instagram: right.2roam
Facebook: right2roam
To donate to the campaign:
Click the button below or visit:
righttoroam.org.uk/donate
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