Towns and Villages 5
Here is the list for 2017
| 1 | Jan 19th | Skittles – Six Bells Newdigate |
| 2 | Feb 16th | Chichester Cathedral |
| 3 | March 16th The Wings Museum Balcombe | |
| 4 | April 20th | The Hawth Theatre – behind the scenes |
| 5 | May 18th | Wakehurst Place |
| 6 | June 15th | St. Mary’s Bramber |
| 7 | July 20th | Police Cells Brighton |
| 8 | Aug 17th | Amex Stadium Falmer (cancelled) Pub lunch at 8 Bells Bolney |
| 9 | Sept 21st | Ewell Surrey |
| 10 | Oct 19th | Littlehampton |
| 11 | Nov 16th | Annual planning meeting – Rookwood Golf Club |
In October 2016, Group 5 celebrated its 9th Anniversary – our first visit took place on 18th October 2007. We visited Dorking and there were seven of us plus Jean Blades, who founded most of the existing Exploring Towns & Villages groups. Three of our existing members were present on that day in October 2007 but the fourth, Margaret Killick, unfortunately has since passed and is sorely missed. Our next visit in November 2007 was attended by 13 people, 9 of whom are still members. We currently have a membership of 30.
Since October 2007 we have visited many interesting places, mainly towns or villages but also some local attractions such as a Brewery, a Lavender Farm and Epsom Racecourse. We are soon due to have our meeting to plan our visits in 2017!
On the 20th October 2016 we went to Reigate Caves which was well organised by our member Colin Buckle. It was a very interesting visit and had been recommended by another one of our T&V groups. We met our guides Paul and Ross, who are volunteers and members of The Wealden Cave & Mine Society. This Organisation runs the caves, which are owned by Reigate Council.
There are two main caves, the first one being The East Tunnel. This cave was fairly well lit but did have a few steps and the odd low ceiling. The cave was mainly dug out in the 19th century and was used primarily for storage - particularly wine! Unfortunately, no mention was made of smugglers! The cave was used considerably during the Second World War both as an air raid shelter and for military staff. Apparently part of the Normandy Landings was planned here. There were even very old- fashioned Gents’ & Ladies’ toilets (separate!!) and an Anderson Shelter.
The second cave is The Barons Cave. This was particularly exciting as there is no lighting and we all had to take torches with us! This cave was mainly built in the Middle Ages to link up with Reigate Castle, some of which still remains to this day. The cave closes in November as it is used by hibernating bats. We did see one small bat clinging to a wall but not flying around! After the second cave exploration, we had a nice lunch!
This visit was well worth it and if any groups need information, please contact this group leader and he will pass on the details.