To Explore, Enjoy and Enhance

Friends of Studham Common

The Friends of Studham Common (FOSC) have been awarded a Green Pennant, the highest national accolade for sites managed by voluntary and community groups.

Work by FOSC is undertaken by agreement with the owners South Beds DC and their professional advisers , The Greensand Trust.

Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Baroness Andrews said:

"I would like to congratulate all those whose hard work has resulted in this year’s green flag winners. In our busy modern lives, parks and green spaces are invaluable as areas where young and old can come together to relax, exercise and play. “

Geoff Shute, Vice Chairman of The Friends of Studham Common said :

“Our reward has been to see the difference we have made to the Common but we are delighted to receive this national recognition which is the result of the hard work of an active group of dedicated volunteers “

Paul Todd, Green Flag Award scheme Application Manager, said: “The increasing number of Green Pennant Award winners highlight the important role they play in bringing people together and improving their quality of life. Congratulations to all those volunteers whose hard work and dedication has brought this award of excellence.”

The Friends of Studham Common were represented by Geoff Shute and Don Grozier when they collected the pennant at a major ceremony in Liverpool on Thursday 24th July.

For information on all winners please visit: www.greenflagaward.org.uk

The Friends of Studham Common gain national recognition

Studham Lower School's Nature Club had a special treat in store in October, when they enjoyed a visit from Veronica Main, Curator of Costume and Textiles at the Luton Museums.
She introduced the children to the unique skills of plaiting with locally grown straw and grass. Wth a bit of parental help, the children produced impressive results. Veronica also explained how this craft was once an important part of rural livelihoods in Studham and surrounding villages, contributing to the Luton hat industry. Thanks to Jane Bedlington of the School's Nature Club and to volunteers from the Friends of Studham Common for helping the children to pick and prepare grasses from the Common. We now look forward to the Nature Club demonstrating their new skill at the next May Fair.

Ancient Craft of Grass Plaiting at Studham Lower School

Annual Outing April 2013

Announcing our annual No-work Work Party!

Each year we down tools and instead of having the monthly Work Party on the Common we visit a place of wildlife interest. We have visited College Lake and Stotfold Mill in the past, and this year we have arranged a trip to

Waddesdon Manor

There, we will be given a private Guided Tour of the grounds by the Aviary Keeper who will point out the many habitats and features of wildlife interest to be found in the extensive estate. And of course he will tell us about the exotic birds he looks after. As it is a National Trust property NT members will have free admission to the House and Grounds/Gardens with only a £4 charge for the guided walk. Non NT members can benefit from a special group admission rate - to the Grounds/Gardens only - of £6 plus £4 for the tour.** So why not make a diary date for a good day out on:

Wednesday 17 April

starting from Studham at 9.15am. To get there we will share cars. The walk will not be strenuous – more of an amble - but strong shoes and suitable clothing are advisable. After the walk you will find lunch venues at the restaurant at the House, the self-service cafeteria at the Stables or at the Five Arrows restaurant in the village. You can also visit the House and Gardens, the Plant Centre and Shop!

**Non NT members who wish to include the House in their visit will pay £13 plus £4 for the walk. Group numbers are: 15 minimum and 20 max. You are very welcome to bring your friends so long as we keep within these figures.

Please contact Denis Davison on: 01582 872650, email:denis@den-jen.co.uk