We as a community are fortunate to have the Rushcliffe Country Park literally on our doorstep. This area provides a setting for walking, exercise and recreational activities. It is appreciated by young and old alike and is also a popular venue for dog owners to exercise their dogs.
Within the park there are various “fun” activities for humans including the play areas, outdoor gym, skate park and BMX Track. Now plans are under way for a “fun” area for the canine visitors.
A local resident, Mike Chadwick , suggested the idea of a Dog Activity Trail . There is a similar one at Coatham Community Woodland in Teeside.
The Park then asked dog owners what they thought and the outcome was a unanimous agreement that it would be a good addition. An area was chosen and
a plan was drawn up. Work has begun with the planting of a boundary hedgerow for the proposed area courtesy of the Woodland Trust and a dog bin has been donated by Glasdon UK.
Now the drive is on to raise the £3000 needed to install the features for the dogs, with their owners, to enjoy. These will include jump over hurdles, table tops, woody weaves, tunnels and a log walk. When completed it will be named Copper’s Dog Activity Trail in memory of Copper who belonged to Zoe, one of the Rangers.
Sue Wilding and Chris Prokaza (regular dog walkers at the park) are leading the fundraising for the project. Planned events include a Tea/ coffee, cakes and Tombola event on Sunday May 24th 9am till 3pm.
at the Visitor Centre. A raffle is planned for the summer and donations are welcomed. Mike, who suggested the idea, will be helping to build and maintain the Trail. Any other offers of help will be gratefully received. If you would like to support this new initiative contact the Ranger’s office.
Barbara Breakwell