Presentation of cheque to English Heritage

Prior to our meeting and meal at the Full Moon in Rudge we had a talk by Ed McGregor.  Ed is the English Heritage Free Sites Partnership Manager, for the West of England.

Ed talked about the history of the White Horse, recent and historical cleaning efforts, the methodology of cleaning and maintaining the White Horse and how Rotary can help in the future.

He was questioned about the viability of the current cleaning regime and the expected longevity of the new whitened surface. The current surface is expected to last a long time with a preventative clean in 5 years.

 Ed did explain how the current surface of the horse had to adhere to stringent ecological constraints as the area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Following the most informative talk the President of Westbury Rotary, Elizabeth Webbe, presented Ed with a cheque for £5000.  This will go a long way in offsetting the cost of the restorative work which was estimated by Ed to be in the region of £70,000.  The cheque was presented with the Mayor of Westbury, Mike Sutton, in attendance.

Ed travelled from Bristol to give the talk and was accompanied by his two young children who were extremely well behaved!