BEATING THE BOUNDS!
As part of their 25th Anniversary celebrations, Newbury Town Council is hosting three opportunities to take part in events to learn more about Newbury’s history by walking or cycling the town boundaries.
Beating the Bounds is an historic method of formally recognising parish boundaries before maps were in existence. The town boundaries would be walked, and boundary markers would be placed.
There will be two opportunities to walk the town boundaries, which will both be approximately 6 miles. The South boundary walk will take place on Sunday 26th June, led by Dave Stubbs; and the North boundary walk will take place on Saturday 2nd July, led by Gillian Durrant.
Both walks will commence at 2pm, meeting outside the Town Hall in the Market Place. Both walks are anticipated to take between 3 – 4 hours, going at a leisurely pace, with light refreshments available in the Council Chamber at the end of each walk.
The Council will also be hosting ‘Beating the Bounds by Bike’ where you can cycle the full town boundary. This will be around 23km long and will be taken at a relaxed pace – suitable for all ages and abilities.
Beating the Bounds by Bike will take place on Sunday 24th July, meeting in the Market Place at 2pm with refreshments upon return in the Council Chamber. This route will be led by the Leader of the Council, Martin Colston.
The Mayor of Newbury, Cllr Gary Norman, who is also the Chairman of the Council’s 25th Anniversary Working Group said, “Come and join me Beating the Bounds. Fresh air, a good walk, good company, and a personal chat with the Mayor, all whilst taking part in a tradition that dates back to Anglo-Saxon times. What’s not to like?”
All events are free to attend and are suitable for families to take part in. No sign up is required, if you would like to take part you are welcome to arrive at the meeting point on the day. Comfortable and appropriate clothing and footwear should be worn. Facilities on all routes will be limited, but all attendees are encouraged to bring a bottle of water.
Cllr Martin Colston, Leader of the Council martin.colston@newbury.gov.uk 01635 36591
Mayor of Newbury, Cllr Gary Norman gary.norman@newbury.gov.uk 07801 046115
Elisa Mullen, Civic Manager Newbury Town Council elisa.mullen@newbury.gov.uk 07538 334106