RALLYING call has been issued by a community group set up safeguard the long-term future of much-loved land in Bewdley.
Maypole Piece in Wribbenhall is an historic green space which has been at the centre of the community for generations but is now up for sale and there are fears it could be developed for housing.
People of all ages have fond memories of the area – from the bonfire to celebrate the end of the Second World War and Major Webb riding his horse there on a Sunday to fetes and football matches on the hill. It also provides habitats for a wealth of local wildlife.
The campaign
The Friends of the Maypole group wants to buy the land and place it in public trust ownership so it can be enjoyed by generations of people in Wribbenhall, Bewdley and the wider area for many years to come.
But, the deadline for bids on Monday, June 9, means the group is in a race against time to raise the funds needed for the purchase.
The group wants to raise as much as possible before then so it can show on Tuesday its intention to acquire the land.
It estimates it would need between £175,000 and £225,000 to show the group as a serious bidder.
The campaign has got off to a successful start with a website and Facebook being set up and other local community groups and residents flocking to getting involved.
The group has delivered leaflets in the local area and a drop-in session for the less tech-savvy and those with no Internet access is being held between 3pm and 5pm tomorrow (Saturday, June 7) at Wribbenhall Parish Rooms. There, people can find out more, speak to the group and pledge what they can.
Anyone unable to make it to the venue can call the Wagon and Horses on 01299 403170 and a lift there and back can be arranged during the event.
As well as donations, Friends of the Maypole need help in other ways – from people experienced in land purchasing to the community spreading word of the campaign in a bid to get as many people as possible to get involved and support the cause.
Natural beauty
Picture courtesy of Friends of Maypole Piece. s
Committee member Denise Eaton was born in Springhill Rise, is ‘Bewdley through and through’.
She said: “We need to hold onto Maypole Piece – it’s so calm and peaceful and arguably the best natural area in Bewdley.
“People go there to relax from the stresses and strains of everyday life and the views are incredible.
“From up there you can see right across Bewdley, Stourport, Kidderminster and Trimperley, along with the Safari Park.
“In the last 12 months there have been three estates either built or being constructed and they all look up to Maypole Piece.
“Building on there will completely destroy the skyline for thousands of residents and we will lose this much-loved asset.”
She added it was used by walkers, dog walkers and, as it is near two schools, would be ideal for forest schools for the children.
“Whatever you can do to help us protect Maypole Piece will be welcome – please come and join us.”
Visit: friendsofthemaypole.co.uk or the ‘Friends of the Maypole’ Facebook page for more information and the latest updates.
