Save Lea Marshes (SLM), is organising a walk following the ancient tradition of “Beating the Bounds”. Revived in the 1990s, by the New Lammas Lands Defence Committee, “Beating the Bounds” involves blessing the boundaries of the area following pagan and Christian rites, and more recent traditions. If you don’t know about this part of our history, come along, find out and enjoy the fun.
WHEN: SUNDAY 26th MAY. We will be doing the traditional “stripping of the willows” (cutting the bark off willow branches), from 1.30 pm and the walk will be departing at 2.00 p.m.
WHERE: Gathering on the tow path by the Princess of Wales pub, E5 9RB
We will be walking around the perimeter of Leyton and Walthamstow Marshes, pointing out the places where walking rights have been eroded and sites which are threatened by development.
Bring your friends and family, learn about local history, and enjoy a good walk with some musical accompaniment, a song or two and good company. There will be stopping- off points for those who do not wish to go the whole route. Wear sensible shoes. Bring water. Dress colourfully if you like (fancy dress particularly for children is encouraged). Parts of the walk may pose difficulties for those with buggies and wheelchairs – we will try and assist with alternatives on those sections. Dogs welcome.
We will meet on the tow path outside of the Princess of Wales and recommend you eat lunch beforehand or bring a picnic. We will end up for more refreshments at the Hare & Hounds pub E10 7LD
SLM is reviving the tradition of this walk following in the footsteps of local historian and activist Katy Andrews. She sadly passed away nearly four years ago but we know she will be with us in spirit and very much present in the history of the area that she studied for many years and in the hearts and minds of all who knew her.
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