Saturday 12th September marked the start of this year’s Wandle Fortnight – a celebration of the Wandle Valley which is run by the community and connects Merton with neighbouring boroughs Sutton, Wandsworth, and Croydon.
Events in Merton that have already taken place to celebrate this have included Mitcham Heritage Day and the annual Abundance Wimbledon Fruit Day, but there are still many activities to get involved in as we continue to explore Merton’s Heritage.
Sat 26th Sept, 10:00 – 16:30 – Merton Heritage Day across Merton
This Saturday sees the return of Merton Heritage Discovery Day. Normally the largest event in the Merton Heritage Calendar, the annual Discovery Day is a showcase for the borough’s rich and colourful past. Last year’s event featured 30 different organisations and attracted well over 2000 people in four hours.
This year’s event has to adopt a slightly different format but heritage staff are determined to raise awareness of Merton’s diverse heritage and the amazing work of local museums, historical societies, community and environmental groups. Click here for more information on what’s on offer throughout the day.
Sat 26th Sept, 11:00 – 14:00 & Sun 27th Sept, 14:00 – 17:00 – Launch of Friends of Colliers Wood Parks & Green Spaces in Wandle Park, Merton
This weekend will mark the launch of the above community environment and conservation group. As part of their launch, they will be providing further information on their plans for Colliers Wood, and doing a litter pick which you are invited to join as part of the #GBSeptemberClean. It’s advised that you bring your own gloves and litter sticks, but you can purchase litter sticks from them if you wish. To get involved in this Friends group or find out more, email collierswoodra@gmail.com
Sat 26th & 27th Sept – Launch of Friends of Garfield & Wandle Meadows Nature Park
The launch of another community and conservation group takes place in Garfield Park this weekend. At their stand, you can collect a treasure trail map for the kids, and get involved in their litter pick at 11am on Sunday as part of the #GBSeptemberClean. You can contact them on Twitter @GarfieldWandle for more information.
At any time, you can take on the Walkin’ in a Womble Wonderland Self Guided Walk (approximately 50-60mins long, 4.5 miles distance.) The walk starts at St Mary’s Church, Wimbledon Road, SW17 taking you through the rich history of Wimbledon Football Club. It can be enjoyed by many generations, much like the club itself, and is a great way to stay active whilst preparing for the club’s return to Wimbledon and Plough Lane next month. The free self-guided walk information pack can be downloaded here from Summerstown182 website.
And if exploring Merton isn’t enough, feel free to visit the Wandle Valley Forum website for more information on some of the events above, and other events happening in our neighbouring boroughs this Wandle Fortnight.
Happy exploring, and let us know how you get along.
