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General update
Despite the wet weather over the past few weeks, the parks continue to be busy, with regular visitors and dog walkers.
Following the recent storms that brought heavy rain and high winds, the parks suffered damage to trees. Our tree contractors, Leaf Tree Services attended the site over several days to carry out clearance work and make trees safe. Ground conditions mean that much of the timber and branches cut up are still not accessible and we can not gain access with heavy vehicles without causing unnecessary damage. Please bear with us and once the ground has firmed up we will continue to clear this.
Unfortunately, the lower pathway in Russell Gardens has had to be closed due to flooding. We will re-open it as soon as possible. The groundwater in the Alkham Valley is approaching its highest ever recorded level.
Kearsney Parks 2024 Calendar
The Kearsney Parks 2024 Calendar is available to buy online and from the Kearsney Cafe. It features 12 beautiful pictures taken in Kearsney Abbey, Russell Gardens and Bushy Ruff throughout the year by members of the public. You can buy it online at www.kearsneyparks.co.uk/order-calendar.
Wildlife
The kingfishers have been seen in all three parks and there have been some lovely opportunities to take photos. The heron has also been a regular visitor to Russell Gardens.
The beautiful picture of a kingfisher above was taken by Steve Elks.
Between November and April, the trout spawn in the river. Trout and trout eggs are very sensitive to disturbances at this time of year so please observe the river from the banks. Please continue to be aware of the wildlife when you visit and ensure dogs are on a lead in the designated areas.
Volunteering at Kearsney Parks
Volunteer tasks continue in the parks on a weekly basis. We continue to carry out general maintenance in the parks, including autumn/winter maintenance on the grand border in Russell Gardens and cutting back of shrubs on Coxhill Mount to encourage reptiles.
Tasks next year will include pruning the orchard, maintenance of the long border and continuing with creating wildlife habitats.
If you are interested in volunteering, and would like to be put on our database, please get in touch at kearsney.parks@dover.gov.uk