Introduction
Farmers Field is a 0.8 hectare/2 acre triangular former grazing field bequeathed by Ernie Pottenger to the people of Urchfont in 2000, a long time resident and farmer of the village. Ernie requested that the field be used as a semi-natural woodland for the benefit of the village residents.
The field is located on the right just past the cemetery and allotments wedged between the main Easterly road out of the village (the B3098), Bridlepath No. 32, and a footpath along the Southern boundary
The field was initially tree planted by Green Link Forestry, at the request of the Urchfont Parish Council, acting for the Forestry Commission under their woodland grant scheme. Since then a small band of villagers (the Friends) ably led by Phil Milanes have continued on with the further planting of trees, bushes and mixed flora. They also carry out the management function of trimming, clearing, thinning, and general maintenance as an ongoing community project for the betterment of the wildlife.
Overall Policy
Following on from Ernie’s wishes, the general policy and overall intent of Farmer’s Field is as a wildlife refuge and community project where humans come second. Diversity of flora and fauna is one of the most important aspects, and it is hoped that Farmer’s Field can be used by the village school, and others, for educational purposes.
Funding
Farmer’s Field has received generous funding over the last eight years: from the Urchfont Scarecrow Festival, Kennett District Council under their landscape conservation grant, the Woodland Trust, Wiltshire County Council, the Urchfont Paris Council Amenities Group, and the Wessex Watermark Award prize – and a special donation from Barbara and Audrey Brent in memory of their brother Clifford who regularly helped with the project. Valuable advice has also been received from the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust. Many thanks to them all.
The project has also received a few wildlife conservation awards – the Wiltshire Times Environmental Award in 2004 and 2006 (with thanks to Peter Newell for putting our name forward) and the Wessex Water Watermark Award.
Volunteers
The Friends working group meets up regularly, usually on the second Saturday of each month for an hour or two (with a well-earned refreshment break halfway through), depending on the time of year and the work needed. Volunteers or permanent additions to the Friends would be gratefully welcomed (please contact Phil Milanes at Breach Farm, Cuckoo Corner, tel: 01380-840402, email: phil@milanesfoils.co.uk).