Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.5.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.

# Ferring Conservation Group

Ferring, West Sussex

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Sussex Wildlife Trust](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-wildlife-trust-15/) - April 2026 - Goshawk: Phantom of the Forest By Kerry Williams: Communications Officer - Conservation, Sussex Wildlife Trust For many of us, film and literature may be the closest we get to experiencing the sharp detail of certain charismatic wildlife goliaths; the breath of a Bengal Tiger, the splashing breach of a Humpback Whale or
- [Sussex Wildlife Trust](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-wildlife-trust-14/) - March 2026 - A Badger’s Brave New World By Kerry Williams: Communications Officer - Conservation, Sussex Wildlife Trust The Badger is a UK icon. Our largest predator, this monochrome mustelid is a star of the classics; Wind in the Willows, Beatrix Potter, and a certain well-known charity’s logo. Often misunderstood, they are also loved by
- [The Story of a Ferring Wildlife Garden - our January 2026 meeting](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-story-of-a-ferring-wildlife-garden-our-january-2026-meeting/) - Dr Tim Freed, a dedicated entomologist of many years and a Group member, gave an enlightening presentation on how he has transformed his private garden in Ferring into a carefully managed refuge for wildlife. What began as a conventional garden has been steadily reshaped into one designed purely as a sanctuary for the widest range
- ["Elizabethan Sussex" at our April meeting](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/elizabethan-sussex-at-our-april-meeting/) - We had a last-minute change of speaker at our April meeting when Helen Poole substituted for Ella Garrud who had fallen ill. Helen’s subject was Sussex in the reign of Elizabeth I. She presented the story through the magnificent buildings which survive from that era and the leading personalities with Sussex connections. Elizabeth was queen
- [Sea Water Quality - November 2025 meeting](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sea-water-quality-november-2025-meeting/) - At our November meeting, Ferring Conservation Group was pleased to welcome Cllr Vicki Wells, Worthing Council’s Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, who provided an informative update on the latest sea water quality findings along the Worthing coastline. Drawing on her background as a science producer for the BBC, Vicki is committed to strengthening community involvement
- [Sussex Wildlife Trust](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-wildlife-trust-13/) - February 2026 - A Bundle of Winter Wrens By Kerry Williams: Communications Officer - Conservation, Sussex Wildlife Trust Someone once told me if you think you’ve seen a mouse it’s probably a Wren. These diminutive brown birds make a habit of hopping about the undergrowth in stop-motion fashion, feeding on insects, spiders, and occasionally berries
- [Sussex Wildlife Trust](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-wildlife-trust-12/) - January 2026 – The ‘No’ Year Resolution By Kerry Williams: Communications Officer - Conservation, Sussex Wildlife Trust Happy New Year! However you choose to celebrate, I hope your festive season was full of peace, joy, and mega loads of cheese. I always have a new year’s resolution and try to make them positive. Apologise less.
- [Emergency beach clean](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/emergency-beach-clean/) - Many thanks to our team of volunteers who turned out this week to help clear our beach at Ferring of all the rubbish that has washed up here recently. There was a significant amount of polystyrene from the ship incident in the Channel plus more items such as fishing gear, nylon rope and others bits
- [Swift nest boxes in Ferring](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/swift-nest-boxes-in-ferring/) - This week, the first two Swift nest boxes in Ferring were installed at Greystoke Manor Residential Care Home in Church Lane by one of our local Swift Champions, Paul Stevens. The owner of the home, Mr Bradley, kindly funded these and we are very grateful to him. We have also got agreement from four other
- [Sussex Wildlife Trust](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-wildlife-trust-11/) - An Ocean Oversight December 2025 By Kerry Williams: Communications Officer – Conservation, Sussex Wildlife Trust December has a real indoors vibe. Short days, finishing work in the dark and inconsistent weather doesn’t exactly motivate us to get out, even if we know it’s good for us. This poses a challenge for connecting with wildlife, which
- [Sussex Wildlife Trust](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-wildlife-trust-10/) - False Accusations November, 2025 By Kerry Williams: Communications Officer – Conservation, Sussex Wildlife Trust From
- [Sussex Wildlife Trust](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-wildlife-trust-9/) - A Red Kite Tale October 2025 By Kerry Williams: Communications Officer
- [Moth Trapping Exercise at St Oscar Romero school](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/moth-trapping-exercise-at-st-oscar-romero-school/) - Students from St Oscar Romero School in Goring-by-Sea, along with their teachers, were recently treated to a fascinating overnight moth-trapping experience, thanks to the expertise of Dr Tim Freed – a leading entomologist and member of the Ferring Conservation Group. This event is part of a growing partnership between Ferring Conservation Group and the school’s
- [Sussex Wildlife Trust](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-wildlife-trust-8/) - Woodlice and Dead Wood September 2025 By Kerry Williams: Communications Officer – Conservation, Sussex Wildlife Trust A minibeast staple of childhood bug hunts, and comprising of 30 UK species,
- [Big Butterfly Count report](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/big-butterfly-count-report/) - On Tuesday 29 July, 9 members (plus a dog) met up in the Bluebird cafe car park for a second Big Butterfly Count near the Ferring Rife. This followed on from our previous one at Cissbury Ring. Although the weather started very dull, it gradually warmed up, and we managed to count a total of
- [Sussex Wildlife Trust](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-wildlife-trust-7/) - Our Elusive Water Voles August 2025 By Kerry Williams: Communications Officer – Conservation If you’re on a reedbed ramble and hear a ‘plop’, you might have just
- [Protecting the Goring/ Ferring Gap](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/protecting-the-goring-ferring-gap/) - (Photo by John Vaughan) Please see the following statement that gives an update on the situation regarding the Gap: The open space between Goring and Ferring — known as the Goring/Ferring Gap — is a designated “Local Green Gap” and deeply valued by our community. In recent months, planning applications to develop part of this
- [Sussex Wildlife Trust](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-wildlife-trust-6/) - Of Owls, Larks and Hedgehogs By Kerry Williams, Communications Officer – Conservation, Sussex Wildlife Trust I’ve always been a night owl. I’m writing this as my creativity kicks in; unhelpfully that's usually around 9pm. I spent my childhood howling in resistance at those who dared tell me it was bedtime. I would read until 3am
- ["No Development on Goring Gap"](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/no-development-on-goring-gap/) - Please see the below update from our Chairman, Pete Coe: There has been some conjecture and rumours circulating about the planned development of a plot of land owned by Chris Dixon. The following is the facts, as we know them. On Thursday last week it was announced by James and James (Estate agents in Goring
- [Sussex Wildlife Trust                             ](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-wildlife-trust-5/) - SWARD WARDENS: the incredible role of dung beetles June 2025 By Kerry Williams: Communications Officer - Conservation There’s a subject we’re not great at talking about in the UK; poo. However, there’s a group of creatures that are far more
- [Patching Orchid walk](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/patching-orchid-walk/) - On Saturday May 3rd (the 3rd anniversary of Tricia Hall’s passing) a group of members gathered on France Lane for a walk through Patching Woods, led by Graham Tuppen. The main purpose was to look at the Bluebells and Early Purple Orchids, both of which were putting on a great show. There were still some
- [Sussex Wildlife Trust](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-wildlife-trust-4/) - Cuckoo: sound of spring May 2025 By Kerry Williams – Communications
- ["What have Insects ever done for us?" presentation at our March meeting](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/what-have-insects-ever-done-for-us-presentation-at-our-march-meeting/) - As a well-respected and passionate conservationist, academic, author, television presenter and explorer, George McGavin’s interest in the natural world and especially insects began at a young age, conducting his own rock pool surveys along the beaches on the east coast of Edinburgh where he grew up. This fascination drove George to overcome a severe stammer
- [Chatsmore Farm appeal dismissed](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/chatsmore-farm-appeal-dismissed/) - Yesterday, we delighted to learn that the Planning Inspector had dismissed the appeal by Persimmon Homes against the decision to refuse them planning permission to build a total of 475 new houses at Chatsmore Farm. This is a excellent decision for the local communities of Ferring and Goring on what would have been a very
- [Sussex Wildlife Trust](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-wildlife-trust-3/) - Bluebell Hues April 2025 By Kerry Williams: Communications Officer – Conservation Like many people, Bluebells are a blast of nostalgia for me. I remember woodland days out as a kid; clambering up trees and scrawling thrilling finds like ‘Woodpigeon’ in biro in soggy exercise books. Bluebell season always required a visit. There’s not much like
- [Culberry Nursery at our February meeting](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/culberry-nursery-at-our-february-meeting/) - Members and visitors welcomed Martin Jarvis, the owner of Culberry Nursery in Angmering which has been in existence for over 75 years. Martin explained that in the beginning it was run by his parents as a market garden with a 99-year lease where they lived in a caravan on the site; this is where Martin’s
- [Sussex Wildlife Trust                                        ](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-wildlife-trust-2/) - Flying Colours By Kerry Williams: Communications Officer - Conservation March 2025 Let’s get the smug bit out of the way. This January I visited an incredible bird watching and conservation organisation in the Western Ghats, India, run by highly skilled and welcoming environmentalists, spotting 75 remarkable
- [Hawking About - January 2025](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/hawking-about-january-2025/) - Kevin, the head falconer from ‘Hawking About’ based in Arundel, gave over 100 members and visitors a wonderful opportunity to enjoy getting close and personal to several of his beautiful Birds of Prey, including a Barn Owl, Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon and and two Harris Hawks. Not only were the audience enthralled by the precision indoor
- [Sussex Wildlife Trust.](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-wildlife-trust/) - THE LITTLE KING
- [Ten Bees and the Stories they Tell - last meeting of 2024](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/ten-bees-and-the-stories-they-tell-last-meeting-of-2024/) - James Power, the author of a recently published book named ‘The Bees of Sussex’, was welcomed to Ferring Conservation Group’s last meeting of the year to present an illustrated talk entitled ‘Ten Bees and the Stories they Tell’. James told the Group that he spent much of his childhood exploring the wide-open spaces of Salisbury
- [SUSSEX WILDLIFE TRUST   Newsletter](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-wildlife-trust-newsletter/) - January 2025 - A case of the January News By Kerry Williams: Communications Officer - Conservation Happy New Year! I hope you all celebrated the festive period with cheer and are still basking in the twinkly afterglow, hoovering up remaining treats and reminiscing over time spent with loved ones. As that sparkle fades
- [Footprints - Parish magazine article by Sussex Wildlife Trust](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/footprints-parish-magazine-article-by-sussex-wildlife-trust/) - December 2024 I’m scrambling through the woodland undergrowth, anxious, sweating and clutching a 2kg pouch of white powder and a spoon. I may look like some Colombian cocaine smuggler, but I’ve got the perfect excuse for the police: “I’m researching my parish magazine article”. I've been writing articles Sussex parish magazines for many years and
- [Shoreham Fort presentation - October 2024](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/shoreham-fort-presentation-october-2024/) - At their October meeting, members of Ferring Conservation Group were treated to an excellent presentation by Gary Baines from the Friends of Shoreham Fort, entitled “Shoreham Fort – Past, Present and Future”. The aims of the Friends group are to conserve, maintain and restore the fort (which is designated as an Ancient Scheduled Monument) back
- [Parish Magazine Article November 2024](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/parish-magazine-article-november-2024/) - Jays by Michael Blencowe for Sussex Wildlife Trust Each autumn a lot of my conversations go like this: “This morning I saw a weird pink and blue bird on my lawn.” Me: “It’s a Jay.” “There’s a parrot on my bird table!” Me: “It’s a Jay.” “I’ve just seen…” Me: “It’s a Jay”. Spotting such
- [Our Rivers - the work of the Environment Agency](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/our-rivers-the-work-of-the-environment-agency/) - Ferring Conservation Group had an interesting talk on Friday [27 September] from local resident Damon Block, a senior officer in the Environment Agency, about the organisation’s work managing the state of our rivers and coastal waters. Damon had begun there as a Water Bailiff, supervising fishing on our local rivers - still an important task
- [Sussex Wildlife Trust parish magazine article      October 2024](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/october-parish-magazine-article/) - Shakespeare’s Starlings Three Act Tragedy Hey y’all, I’m mailing in this month’s article from my vacation at Bodega Bay on the foggy Pacific coast of California. It may be all organic coffee, art galleries, surfer dudes and flip-flops but this quaint coastal community is notorious for being the location for a most sinister film: ‘The
- [Parish Magazine Article September 2024](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/parish-magazine-article-september-2024/) - Wasp Spider by Michael Blencowe for Sussex Wildlife Trust I never thought I’d say this, but I’ve fallen in love with a spider. And coming from a lifelong arachnophobe that’s quite a claim. Whereas every other spider species sends me screaming in utter terror, the Wasp Spider has melted my heart. They are gorgeous. I
- [Our Big Butterfly Count](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/our-big-butterfly-count/) - Finally our third attempt at doing our bit towards the Big Butterfly Count went ahead on Wednesday 31st July, albeit around the Rife rather than Cissbury. 14 members met at the footbridge, and under the nominal lead of Graham Tuppen, enjoyed a warm wander around the field, lagoons and Rife path, counting butterflies. Overall we
- [The Long Walk Home - 26 July](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-long-walk-home-26-july/) - After a gap of several years Michael Blencowe returned to Ferring Conservation Group to regale members and visitors alike with tales of his epic walk of 348 miles from his current home in Sussex back to his childhood roots in Devon. Now a freelance naturalist, author and wildlife guide, Michael felt compelled to complete this
- [Horse Chestnut by Michael Blencowe for Sussex Wildlife Trust](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/horse-chestnut-by-michael-blencowe-for-sussex-wildlife-trust/) - Far, far away in the south-east corner of Europe, the Balkan Mountains tower over the landscape. Their valleys were once home to the fearsome Thracian tribes, who made empires tremble when they rode screaming into battle on their wild horses. But even more ancient battles were being fought deep in these majestic mountains. Here in
- [Knepp Wildland Estate presentation - 28 June](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/knepp-wildland-estate-presentation-28-june/) - Leaving behind a career in IT and Telecommunications, Mark McManus decided to venture down a very different path and indulge his passion for wildlife as he became an Assistant Warden for the RSPB’s Pulborough Brooks Reserve and then a Ranger for the South Downs National Park Authority. Mark now happily imparts his vast knowledge to
- [Coppicing presentation - 31 May](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/coppicing-presentation-31-may/) - The ancient skill of coppicing was the fascinating subject that Clive Cobie covered at the Group’s May meeting to enlighten members and visitors. Clive is the Centre Manager for Shadow Wood near Billingshurst – a 63-acre bluebell wood in the heart of the Weald Downlands. Clive explained why this traditional form of woodland management serves
- [Broadwater and Worthing Cemetery presentation - 26 April](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/broadwater-and-worthing-cemetery-presentation-26-april/) - Ferring Conservation Group’s April meeting had a very interesting, and well-presented talk on the History and Wildlife of Broadwater Cemetery – one of Worthing’s oldest burial grounds, now a nature reserve but still visited by family members of those who were buried there in its latter years. ‘Friends of Broadwater Cemetery’ document its history (which
- [July events](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/july-events/) - Sunday 14 July - litter clean up of central part of Ferring Village. Please meet on Village Green at 11am, and equipment and high vis jackets will be provided. We plan to clean up the Green and Glebelands Rec (and surrounds), and by coincidence this is the day after the Ferring Festival so a good
- [Ferring Rife water quality testing with St Oscar Romero school](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/ferring-rife-water-quality-testing-with-st-oscar-romero-school/) - With clipboards at the ready around 30 students recently joined Ferring Conservation Group, in a morning and afternoon session, on their monthly water quality testing of the Ferring Rife. The Group’s new Chairman Pete Coe gave an introductory talk advising the students of why the river is tested regularly and ways in which rivers can
- [Purple Emperor by Michael Blencowe for Sussex Wildlife Trust](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/purple-emperor-by-michael-blencowe-for-sussex-wildlife-trust/) - In any book on British butterflies, you’ll find our 58 species segregated into social ranks: the common browns, the blue-collar blues, the working-class whites. But turn the page, past the lepidopteral lower-classes, and you’ll find a butterfly so unique, so magnificently majestic, so breathtakingly beautiful that for centuries British naturalists have bowed before it. Draped
- [Village Green Community Project morning](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/village-green-community-project-morning/) - We recently held our monthly Community Project activity, and this time we returned to the Village Green. Thank you to those members who helped out but we could always do with a few more if you're able to help. It's only for an hour or so, and always on the first Thursday of the month,
- [The Sea Lane boat](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-sea-lane-boat/) - At our most recent Community Project morning in May, the boat at the foot of Sea Lane received some much needed refurbishment due to it being overwhelmed by weeds and some inappropriate plants. The project was originally initiated some years ago by our late member, Tricia Hall, and it was always the intention to focus
- [Swifts by Michael Blencowe](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/swifts-by-michael-blencowe/) - Parish Magazine Article June 2024 Swifts by Michael Blencowe for Sussex Wildlife Trust These are uncertain times. Who knows where this planet is heading? But since the start of May I’ve been looking to the sky for a sign of reassurance: the return of the Sussex Swifts from Africa. Ted Hughes expressed it perfectly: “They’ve
- [Bluebell Walks](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/bluebell-walks/) - On a warm Saturday 13th April, 12 members of the group met in Clapham Church car park. Led by Graham Tuppen, we walked through the woods, admiring the bluebells, wood anemones, celandines, greater stitchwort and primroses. Despite searching, no early purple orchids were spotted. A diversion from the main path took us to a magnificent
- [Late April and May events](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/late-april-and-may-events/) - In addition to the main meeting this coming Friday (26th) at Ferring Village Hall at 2.30pm on the Broadwater and Worthing Cemetery, we have the following events coming up: 1. An extra Bluebell Walk - this time in Patching Woods next Monday 29th April, meeting at the usual place in France Lane just south of
- [2024 Clean Up dates](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/2024-clean-up-dates-and-community-project-day-on-thursday-1-feb/) - The four Clean Up dates for 2024 have been arranged and details are included on the Beach Clean Dates section of this website. This year, there will be the Rife Clean in March, 2 Beach Cleans in May and September, and for the first time a Village Centre Clean in July.
- [Hawthorn](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/hawthorn/) - Hawthorn, by Michael Blencowe You could set your calendar by it. Around the first day of May, our ancestors would step outside to find foamy white clouds erupting across the Sussex countryside; the Hawthorn was blooming, spring was turning to summer. The sight was so visually stunning and so linked with the arrival of May that
- [Sussex Underwater Presentation 22 March](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-underwater-presentation-22-march/) - Ferring Conservation Group were privileged to welcome Sussex Underwater (Eric Smith accompanied by his daughter Catrine Priestley) to their March meeting to enthral members with their enlightening presentation together with beautiful film footage of the results of the successful campaign to rejuvenate the local underwater kelp forest. It was apparent right from the start what
- [More good work at Warren Pond](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/more-good-work-at-warren-pond/) - Following on from our Community project morning at Warren Pond in November, on a frosty and cold January morning we carried out some more useful practical improvements there to benefit the habitat. Firstly a Hibernaculum was constructed on the north side of the pond near to the fence line of Florida Road. This is basically
- [Wey and Arun Canal Trust Presentation 23 February](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/wey-and-arun-canal-trust-presentation-23-february/) - The February meeting had over 80 members and visitors present to hear an excellent presentation from Tony Pratt, a representative from The Wey and Arun Canal Trust. Tony explained that the canal formed the final part of a vital route from London to Portsmouth without going to sea. This became of great military importance, particularly
- [A Presentation by The Marine Conservation Society 26th January](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/a-presentation-by-the-marine-conservation-society-26th-january/) - Chiara Agnarelli, a local volunteer with the Marine Conservation Society, gave a talk to our 26 January meeting, highlighting the many threats to the sea’s wildlife, the world’s food supply, its function as a ‘carbon sink’ and its value for recreation. The main threat, she said was the increasing pollution from litter and sewage, but
- [Warren Pond update](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/warren-pond-update/) - We held a very well attended Community Project morning at the pond at the start of November, and carried out a good amount of bramble and vegetation clearance on The Warren side of the pond. Thank you to all those who helped out and we managed to fill up the skip as usual. To follow
- [Worthing Buildings Lost and Saved](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/worthing-buildings-lost-and-saved/) - Ferring Conservation Group welcomed the Worthing Society to its November meeting, for a talk given by its Chairman, Sue Belton and Committee member David Clark. The Society much in common with our Conservation Group, is striving to preserve and conserve all that is best in our environment, and is a valuable member of the Protect
- [FCG 2023 Charity Christmas Cards](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-2023-charity-christmas-cards/) - Our 2023 charity Christmas cards are now on sale. The image on the card this year is an excellent and atmospheric photograph of a Winter Sunset on Ferring Beach, taken by Mary Coe. The cards come in a pack of 10, and once again cost £5 per pack, with all proceeds going direct to Chestnut
- [Our October Meeting](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/our-october-meeting/) - Wilder Landscapes Fran Southgate from the Sussex Wildlife Trust gave the Group’s October meeting an interesting presentation on Sussex landscapes and the efforts of the Trust to ‘re-wild’ them. Much work had been done on the Trust’s own reserves (1,900 hectares/4,700 acres) but this was only 0.5 per cent of the areas of the two
- [Holly](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/holly/) - Holly, by Michael Blencowe for Sussex Wildlife Trust I’m sure you’ll agree that these are crazy times, folks. Back in Ancient Rome they had a festival – Saturnalia – which saw their society turn upside down for a week each December. It seems Saturnalia’s traditions of chaos and mayhem are now the daily norm for
- [Slugs](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/slugs/) - Slugs by Michael Blencowe for Sussex Wildlife Trust I've had a strange fascination with slugs since I was a little boy. Back then I believed that they were homeless snails that had lost their shells. It turns out I was right. Sort of. The whole eviction process had started as far back as the murky
- [Dolphins and Porpoises off our shores](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/2519-2/) - This was the subject at Ferring Conservation Group’s September meeting, very well presented by James Milton of the Sussex Dolphin Project, based at Shoreham seafront. Their mission is to protect local dolphin species through research, awareness and education to restore and increase the population of these fascinating marine mammals. He began with some excellent video
- [Presentation on Ferring's WWII defences including the Pill Box](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/presentation-on-ferrings-wwii-defences-including-the-pill-box/) - Some pictures of the recent excellent presentation by committee member Pete Coe on Ferring's WWII defences, and particularly the Pill Box on Patterson's Walk. This included an update on its current joint restoration project with Ferring History Group, which is progressing well. For information, Pete has also written a book on the subject which should
- [Hoverflies](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/hoverflies/) - Hoverflies by Michael Blencowe for Sussex Wildlife Trust Everyone loves bees, don’t they? Knowing that our bees are in decline has prompted protests and petitions and highlighted the important service these buzzing pollinators provide to our planet. Without them our crops and ecosystems would collapse. Yet many other pollinators that provide the same service don’t
- [Work parties from September](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/work-parties-from-september/) - In order to assist members with planning ahead and hopefully to come along to some of our monthly work parties, we have returned to the previous system of holding them on the same day each month. From September, they will normally be held on the first Thursday of the month at 10am (and most of
- [Ferring History Group and Ferring Conservation Group - (A  Joint Project to clear and make safe the Pill Box on Patterson's Walk)](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/ferring-history-group-and-ferring-conservation-group-a-joint-project-to-clear-and-make-safe-the-pill-box-on-pattersons-walk/) - As one of the few remaining Pill Box beach defences along the West Sussex coastline, this strategic structure was erected by the Royal Engineers in 1941 as part of the beach defences known as the coastal crust. Ferring lies in the middle of the West Sussex section of the German invasion plans, code named Operation
- [The Changing Chalk Partnership - Part 2 (History and Heritage in the South Downs)](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-changing-chalk-partnership-part-2/) - Gary Webster, a Heritage Officer with the National Trust, on his second visit to the Group delivered part 2 of The Changing Chalk Partnership. This time around Gary focused on the human history and archaeology of the downland of East Sussex. He recalled the geology of the Downs, the remnants of the huge chalk dome
- [Butterfly Count at Cissbury Ring](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/butterfly-count-at-cissbury-ring/) - On Tuesday 18th July members of Ferring Conservation Group, led by Clive Hope,Graham Tuppen and Jackie Hall, met at Cissbury Ring to take part in the Butterfly Conservation's Big Butterfly Count. It was a lovely sunny day, with only a gentle breeze, so the conditions were favourable and in all 19 varieties of butterflies, 3
- [The Water Shrew](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-water-shrew/) - Water Shrew by Michael Blencowe for Sussex Wildlife Trust I love Jaws, the 1975 movie which sent three men out into the Atlantic on a fishing boat in search of a marauding Great White Shark. There’s another aquatic monster hunting in the ponds and shallow streams of Sussex. But to find a Water Shrew…you’re gonna
- [A Sussex Scrapbook 2](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/a-sussex-scrapbook-2/) - On 30 June Ferring Conservation Group had another talk by Sussex historian Chris Horlock – on some of the curious things to be seen in the county’s churches and graveyards, on village signs, in records of its folklore, old recipes and health cures. He began with St Bartholomew’s Church in Brighton, an enormous building, in
- [Summer Social](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/summer-social-2/) - We're holding our annual Summer social on the evening of Saturday 19 August, and this year it will be at the St. Andrew's Church Centre, starting at 6.30pm. There will be a choice of hot buffet main meals, with salads and bread etc, then a choice of desserts and cream to follow, plus one free
- [Barn Owls and the Sussex Barn Owl Study Group](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/2470-2/) - On a return visit to Ferring Conservation Group Stuart Card gave an interesting and informative presentation, this time on Barn Owls and the vital work that is being carried out by the Sussex Barn Owl Study Group under the umbrella of the Sussex Ornithology Society. Stuart shared his enthusiasm for this attractive little owl and
- [Visit to Warnham Nature Reserve 25th May](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/visit-to-warnham-nature-reserve-25th-may/) - In fond memory of their good friend and knowledgeable Committee member Tricia Hall, members of Ferring Conservation Group met up at Warnham Nature Reserve in Horsham. The Reserve was a special place for Tricia and her late husband Mike, and it was good to have their two daughters, Jackie and Amanda join the Group -
- [Stinging Nettles](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/stinging-nettles/) - Stinging Nettles, by Michael Blencowe of the Sussex Wildlife Trust In the shadows under the Oak trees my enemy awaits. There are hundreds of them, huddled together in a silent, ferocious mob. With their drab green leaves and insignificant flowers, the Stinging Nettle is a joyless plant infamous only for its ability to inflict pain.
- [A Walk in Patching Woods to view the Bluebells](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/a-walk-in-patching-woods-to-view-the-bluebells/) - On Thursday 4th May 9 members of Ferring Conservation Group, with their trusted guide Graham Tuppen, set off from France Lane into Patching woods to view particularly the bluebells and other springtime flowers. They were delighted to find the native bluebells at their best, forming a delightfully scented blue carpet. There were also Wood Anemones,
- [Highdown Gardens](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/highdown-gardens/) - Alex New the Plant Heritage Curator at Highdown Gardens came along to the Group’s April meeting not only to educate members regarding the wonderful collection of rare plants adorning the Gardens, but also to bring to life the fascinating history of this valued and unique chalk garden. To an audience of 90 members and visitors
- [A Presentation by Students from St Oscar Romero School](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/a-presentation-by-students-from-st-oscar-romero-school/) - Ferring Conservation Group were treated to an accomplished presentation by three very able students from St Oscar Romero School in Goring-by-Sea at the Group’s March meeting, accompanied by their teacher Mr Phil Dean. This event marked the beginning of a joint venture where FCG and the school will work together on projects, learning from each
- [Sussex Bird Migration](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-bird-migration/) - Members of Ferring Conservation Group welcomed Matt Eade to their February meeting to talk about his observations regarding bird migration here in Sussex. Matt has had a lifelong interest in birds and in his professional life he works in operations at Naturetrek HQ and has the responsibility to design and lead wildlife tours. Matt strongly
- [Nature Walk around Burpham 20th February](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/nature-walk-around-burpham-20th-february/) - An excellent turnout of 22 members from Ferring Conservation Group set out from the beautiful village of Burpham led by their knowledgeable guide, Clive Hope. Their aim was to observe the diverse and plentiful wildlife this relatively remote area of south-east England has on its doorstep. This village is built on the side of Perry
- [Shepherds of the South Downs - by Ian Everest](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/shepherds-of-the-south-downs-by-ian-everest/) - The members and guests of Ferring Conservation Group welcomed Ian Everest for a return visit, this time to give a talk about the lives and times of shepherds of the South Downs. Ian’s father was a farm worker in the village of Bishopstone where Ian was raised and this kindled a keen interest in farming,
- [2023 Beach Clean (and Rife Clean) dates](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/2023-beach-clean-and-rife-clean-dates/) - Please note that our four clean up dates for this year (2023) have been arranged, and details are available in the Beach Clean Dates section of this website. These will now be held on Sundays, and not Saturdays as previously. The first one will be the Rife clean up on Sunday 26 March at 11am.
- [Charity Christmas Cards](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/charity-christmas-cards/) - Our Group Charity Christmas cards are available again at £5 per pack of 10 cards. There is a choice of 2 views - St Andrew's Church, and the Ferring Rife. All proceeds from the sale of these cards will be going to St Barnabas House Hospice who cared for the artist Tricia Hall (our committee
- [The Changing Chalk Partnership](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-changing-chalk-partnership/) - Chalk grassland, a globally important habitat, has sadly been in decline since WWII. Led by the National Trust and funded by a £2.23 million grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and People’s Postcode Lottery, this 10 core partnership aims to connect landowners, farmers and communities around Brighton and Hove, Eastbourne and Lewes with pockets
- [Dates for your Diary](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/dates-for-your-diary-2/) - *Update as of Mon 14 Nov - due to the poor weather forecast for this Weds of rain and strong winds, and the exposed location of the walk on the Downs, we have postponed this walk. We hope to re-schedule it soon* Birdwatching visit to the Burgh, near Burpham village on Weds 16 November, and
- [Sussex Landscapes](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/sussex-landscapes/) - With an attendance of around 70 members Ferring Conservation Group welcomed Dr Geoffrey Mead to their October meeting (his second visit to the Group), this time to give a talk entitled ‘Sussex Landscapes’. Dr Mead is an Associate Tutor with the Geography team at the University of Sussex. He specialises in the landscapes of SE
- [Weald to Waves](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/weald-to-waves/) - A good audience heard a very encouraging presentation on the ‘Weald to the Waves’ project, given by one of its leading lights James Baird. The project is to create a series of green wildlife corridors from the borders of Kent and Surrey to the sea. The main corridor is to run from the Ashdown Forest,
- [September Beach Clean 2022](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/september-beach-clean-2022/) - On the last beach clean of the year a beautiful sunny morning greeted thirty members of Ferring Conservation Group when they met up near the beach huts. As in previous years, the results of this particular beach clean were sent to the Marine Conservation Society (MCS), where thousands of people across the UK take part
- [ProGaps -Protecting our Gaps and Green spaces](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/progaps-protecting-our-gaps-and-green-spaces/) - We have teamed up with conservation and amenity groups and residents' associations all along the coast from Rustington to Worthing to resist, together, all attacks on our Gaps and other green spaces by housing developers and commercial enterprises. Every planning application in these areas will be opposed, and objection e mails and letters sent, to
- [The Planning Process](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-planning-process/) - Planning Applications - who does what? Ferring Conservation Group spends a lot of time monitoring the applications for new housing, commercial development and large extensions or rebuilding where they impinge unfairly on neighbours, the streetscape or countryside. We often ask our members to submit individual objections but we rarely explain how the system works. Typically
- [Great Tits](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/great-tits/) - Parish Magazine Article September 2022 Great Tit by Michael Blencowe of the Sussex Wildlife Trust Just for the record; I’ve never trusted them. Unlike all the other familiar, friendly faces on my back garden bird table there’s just something about the Great Tit that’s always made me suspicious. Perhaps it’s my mistrust of uniforms. The
- [Butterfly Count on Highdown Hill - 25th July](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/butterfly-count-on-highdown-hill-25th-july-2022/) - Ferring Conservation Group regularly takes part in the annual nationwide Butterfly Conservation’s ‘Big Butterfly Count’, and 2022 was no exception. This important survey is aimed at helping conservationists establish the health of our environment by counting the amount and type of butterflies (and some day-flying moths) sighted throughout the UK. Unfortunately the balmy, sunny day
- [Living Seas along the Sussex Coast](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/living-seas-along-the-sussex-coast/) - On a warm, sunny evening Sarah Ward, Sussex Wildlife Trust’s (SWT) Living Seas Officer, opened the Group’s July meeting with an informative and interesting, illustrated talk on Living Seas along the Sussex Coast. This happened to coincide with National Marine Week (spanning 15 days to allow for the variation of tide times) the Nationwide Wildlife
- [Shoreham Beach Vegetation Walk and June Group Meeting](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/shoreham-beach-vegetation-walk-and-june-group-meeting/) - On a very sunny Friday 17th June, some 20 members of Ferring Conservation Group met at Shoreham Fort mainly to look at plants growing on the vegetated shingle, one of the few places in the country where this eco-system is found. Led by Graham Tuppen members were able to find 16 of the 18 plants
- [A Sussex Scrapbook - a talk by Christopher Horlock](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/a-sussex-scrapbook-a-talk-by-christopher-horlock/) - Ferring Conservation Group was delighted when Chris Horlock stepped in at very short notice to speak at their monthly Group meeting on 27th May. With an illustrated talk entitled ‘A Sussex Scrapbook’ Chris regaled members with an enchanting mix of anecdotes regarding famous people with a connection to Sussex, details of local historic buildings and
- [A Walk to see the Bluebells in Patching Woods](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/2259-2/) - A group of enthusiastic members from Ferring Conservation Group enjoyed a recent walk through Patching woods, principally to see the bluebells, which were wonderful. The wood anemones were slightly past their best, but still good, and there was a very good show of early purple orchids. Patches of wild garlic and yellow archangel, plus native
- [The White Stork Project](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-white-stork-project/) - We welcomed Lucy Groves, a conservation biologist with a special interest in movement ecology to our March meeting. Lucy is currently employed by the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust as the project officer for the White Stork Project, and is based at the Knepp Castle Estate. Lucy began by sharing her enthusiasm for the Stork Project
- [Come and Support our Work and Help to Keep Ferring Beautiful!](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/come-and-support-our-work-and-help-to-keep-ferring-beautiful/) - We welcome new members so please join us and help in our campaigns to conserve the open spaces in and around Ferring, hear interesting talks on local and regional wild life as well as joining us on our regular nature walks. Take part in practical conservation work - planting trees and wild flowers, and keeping
- [FCG visit to Pagham Harbour](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-visit-to-pagham-harbour-2/) - A dozen Ferring Conservation Group members recently made their way to Pagham Harbour for their annual Spring birdwatching visit. The party, which included a couple of members making their first such visit to the harbour, was led by one of the Group’s bird experts, Clive Hope. Weather wise, on what was forecast to be a
- [The Goring Gap - our Member of Parliament speaks out:](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-goring-gap-our-member-of-parliament-speaks-out/) - Sir Peter Bottomley has made the following statement on his Facebook page:At the recent Public Inquiry, the Council made a very clear case against the development, Ferring Conservation Group made a very clear case against the development. I would like to think that I, too, made a very clear case against the development.However, in spite
- [Bad News on the Northern Gap](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/bad-news-on-the-northern-gap/) - We were shocked to discover today that the Inspector who conducted the Planning Inquiry into Persimmon's Appeal on the Chatsmore Farm site has upheld that appeal and so, unless something extraordinary happens, the 475-house estate will be built. It is a bitter blow to all of us - Ed Miller
- [Good News for the Birds of Ferring](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/good-news-for-the-birds-of-ferring/) - Warren Pond in the southern part of Ferring is a better place for birds thanks to Ferring Parish Council and the Conservation Group. The pond, near the junction of Florida Road and The Warren, is owned by the Council and is managed in partnership with the Group as a nature reserve, being one of the
- [For the Love of Birdsong](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/for-the-love-of-birdsong/) - As an RSPB Project Manager by day and Wildlife Gardener in his spare time, Adrian Thomas has always been aware of Birdsong as the natural soundtrack to our lives. It can evoke an emotional and powerful sense of time, place and season and it is not just a highly accurate way to identify and find
- [Visit to Warnham Nature Reserve 18th January](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/visit-to-warnham-nature-reserve-18th-january/) - Despite sub-zero temperatures 21 keen members of Ferring Conservation Group met at Warnham Nature Reserve for a guided tour of this beautiful and precious resource on the outskirts of Horsham. Their guide for the morning was Clive Hall, a knowledgeable local bird expert and longstanding member of the Group. He was assisted by the Group’s
- [FCG provide new benches for Ferring Rife](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-provide-new-benches-for-ferring-rife/) - Ferring Conservation Group has completed the construction and installation of two rustic wooden benches on the Ferring side of the local Rife River. It’s hoped that these will provide a welcome stopping point for walkers to take a short break to appreciate this much loved and protected Local Wildlife Site. The benches are made of
- [Last 'Beach Clean' of the year and the ‘Great Big Green Week’](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/last-beach-clean-of-the-year-and-the-great-big-green-week/) - On a glorious late September morning around 35 members of Ferring Conservation Group met at the beach huts in Ferring to carry out the last scheduled beach clean of 2021. As in previous years this September’s beach clean was conducted as part of the Great British Beach Clean. This national initiative is a week-long citizen
- [Annual Tidy Up Around Warren Pond](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/annual-tidy-up-around-warren-pond/) - Ferring Conservation Group members were joined recently by a number of Councillors from Ferring Parish Council, including the Chairman Pete Coe, to carry out the annual tidy up of the surrounds of the Warren Pond in South Ferring. It was an unsettled morning and the work party was caught out by one rain shower, but
- ['The Great British Rake Off'](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-great-british-rake-off/) - After a fallow year in 2020 due to Covid restrictions, volunteers from Ferring Conservation Group came together again with those from The Good Gym Worthing to rake up the cut vegetation at the foot of Sea Lane Ferring at the start of the month. The Good Gym is a charity with branches across the country
- [Rife Memorial Bench](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/rife-memorial-bench/) - Roy Westwater, one of FCG's long-standing members, has donated the cost of one of our new 'perch benches' on the banks of the Rife in memory of his late wife Barbara. We were pleased to have a suitable plaque engraved and mounted on the bench, and to take this photograph of Roy and members of
- [2 Upcoming Guided Walks](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/2-upcoming-guided-walks/) - We are organising two guided walks in December and January - details are as follows: (Do bring binoculars and wear suitable clothing for the time of year) 1. Winter Weeds and Waders - Thursday 11 December - meet at bottom of Sea Lane, Ferring at 10am for a walk along the beach to see the
- [Winter Waders and Weeds Walk (Thursday 11th December 2014)](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/winter-waders-and-weeds-walk-thursday-11th-december-2014/) - Approximately 25 members of Ferring Conservation Group braved a bright but chilly December morning to take a walk along the beach from Sea Lane, Ferring, towards Goring. To keep us on our toes Tricia Hall set us a 5 star challenge with a list of wading birds and seaweed to find and identify. Jane Hayman,
- [Bulb Planting on the Village Green](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/bulb-planting-on-the-village-green/) - As part of our commitment to help improve the Ferring Village Green, we are joining up with Arun District Council for a bulb planting session there at 2pm on Tuesday 21st October. It would be good to see a decent turnout of local people, and the fruits of our labours will be seen next Spring
- [News from the recent Warren Pond work day](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/news-from-the-recent-warren-pond-work-day/) - It was great to see 26 members/ volunteer workers turn up for the first clear up of the surrounds of the Warren Pond last Saturday (11th October). The Group carried out the work in partnership with Ferring Parish Council which now owns the pond. Refreshments were kindly provided by members Sue and Tony Palmer who
- [Summer Social 2014](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/summer-social-2014/) - Our annual Summer Social event takes place at Ferring Village Hall on Saturday 23rd August starting at 6.30pm. We have only a handful of tickets left for this enjoyable event priced at £10 per person. This includes a hot buffet style meal and a free first drink - further drinks will be available. There will
- [Summer Bug Hunt 29th August](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/summer-bug-hunt/) - FCG Summer Bug Hunt Poster See the attached poster for details of our upcoming Summer Bug Hunt on August 29th. Children and grandchildren (must be accompanied by adults) are particularly welcome.
- [2022 Beach Clean and Rife Clean dates](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/2022-beach-clean-and-rife-clean-dates/) - The dates for the above are now on the Beach Clean Dates page on this website. If you'd like to help, please put them in your diaries.
- [A Tree Walk around Ferring 30th November](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/a-tree-walk-around-ferring-30th-november/) - On a relatively mild, but damp morning nine members of Ferring Conservation Group met up on the Village Green to admire and learn more about the many beautiful trees in the village. The walk not only coincided with the wonderful display of autumnal colours at this time of year but also with National Tree Week.
- [Rewilding 'A Personal View'](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/rewilding-a-personal-view/) - Neil Hulme MBE, a member of the Knepp Wildland Advisory Board, opened the last meeting of the year with a fascinating presentation on his personal view of Rewilding. This independent role gives Neil an insight into how existing and future opportunities can benefit nature to help preserve precious countryside and wildlife. Neil’s vision is to
- [British Alstroemeria and the UK Cut Flower Industry](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/british-alstroemeria-and-the-uk-cut-flower-industry/) - To open their October meeting Ben Cross, from Crosslands Flower Nursery in Walberton near Arundel, came along to tell members and visitors about his mission to challenge the UK’s dependence on imported flowers and to promote British grown Alstroemeria. Ben began by explaining that more than 90% of the UK’s cut flowers are shipped in
- [2021 Christmas Cards are now on Sale](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/2021-christmas-cards-are-now-on-sale/) - Please note that our next Group monthly meeting commences at 2.30pm (not 7.30 pm as stated on the poster) Friday 29th October in Ferring Village Hall
- [Fungi Foray 2021](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fungi-foray-2021/) - A dozen Ferring Conservation Group members met up recently at the RSPB Pulborough Brooks reserve for a fungi foray, led by Group committee member Tricia Hall. The wooded area of the reserve is one of the best locally to view a wide variety of fungi at this time of year. The RSPB have marked out
- [The White-tailed Sea Eagle Project on the Isle of Wight](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-white-tailed-sea-eagle-project-on-the-isle-of-white/) - After a gap of nineteen months Ferring Conservation Group were at last able to hold their monthly Group meeting. To open the meeting project manager Steve Egerton-Read from Forestry England had journeyed over from the beautiful Isle of Wight to give a brief history of the White-tailed Sea Eagles and the latest news regarding the
- [Persimmon tries again](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/persimmon-tries-again/) - Persimmon's Persistence We learned this morning that Persimmon have lodged an appeal against Worthing Borough Council's refusal of their 475-home estate on the North Goring Gap. This was quite a surprise because they told the planning officers that they would not appeal but try to get the land designated for housing in the Planning Inspector's review of the
- [FCG Butterfly Count 2021](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/2085-2/) - Ferring Conservation Group carried out three surveys this year as part of The Big Butterfly Count. This is the world's biggest survey of butterflies and last year, during lock-down, 111,628 participants submitted results with a staggering total of 1.4 million individuals counted. Sadly, 2020 was not a good year for many species and because of
- [FCG and SDOS Nature Walk on Highdown Hill](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-and-sdos-nature-walk-on-highdown-hill/) - Thirty two people met in the car park at Highdown Hill on Thursday 15th July - this was the combination of members from both Ferring Conservation Group (FCG) and Shoreham and District Ornithological Society (SDOS). With such a large attendance it was decided to split into groups of 8 with Tricia Hall, Clive Hope, Graham
- [Walk along Ferring Rife to look at Birds, Flowers and Trees 29th April](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/walk-along-ferring-rife-to-look-at-birds-flowers-and-trees-29th-april/) - Twenty four enthusiastic members of Ferring Conservation Group, in 4 socially distanced teams of 6, strolled leisurely along the west bank of the Rife heading north. The early start soon paid dividends as the keen ears of the group’s leaders identified a Reed Warbler which was also briefly seen by a few members. Also Whitethroats,
- [Online Talk 'Pressing the Pause Button' by Dr Tony Whitbread](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/online-talk-pressing-the-pause-button-by-dr-tony-whitbread/) - Due to Government restrictions Ferring Conservation Group had to move their usual April monthly Group meeting online. Chairman, David Bettiss opened the meeting and welcomed Dr Tony Whitbread, President of the Sussex Wildlife Trust (SWT) who gave a thought provoking and informative talk challenging the issues faced by nature in the 21st century. Dr Whitbread
- [Woodland Walk at Patching 22nd April](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/woodland-walk-at-patching-22nd-april-2021/) - On a beautiful sunny, but chilly, morning 18 members of Ferring Conservation Group met in France Lane at Patching for a woodland walk. With social distancing rules paramount 3 teams of six people with their knowledgeable guides Tricia Hall, Peter Dale and Graham Tuppen strode out across a newly ploughed field following the public footpath
- [Highdown Vineyard  - the latest](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/grapes-or-houses-what-is-going-on-at-highdown-vineyard/) - The owners of Highdown Vineyard on Littlehampton Road say on their web site, 'the Vineyard has not been sold despite some newspaper headlines suggesting otherwise. We have allowed a property company to prepare a planning application for housing but this is at a very, very early stage'.and that' all bookings 'will go ahead without any
- [Greetings Cards of Ferring Now Available to Buy](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/greetings-cards-of-ferring-now-available-to-buy/) - We have been sending Tricia Hall's excellent Christmas Cards for some years now and raised several thousand pounds for the Chestnut Tree Children's Hospice. Now Tricia has produced a new range of cards that can be sent any time of the year:
- [Tree Planting in Ferring](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/planting-trees-in-ferring/) - As part of a ten point plan for a green industrial revolution for the UK to become carbon-neutral a new government initiative was announced at the end of 2020 to plant more trees up and down the country. A cash boost of almost £4 million will see hundreds of thousands of new trees planted in
- [Ferring Beach and Goring Gap Information Boards](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/ferring-beach-and-greensward/) - Those of you who walk along Patterson's walk may have noticed that the information board has been updated with a new insert and clear covering of polycarbonate on September 23rd, and the one on Goring Gap on December 10th. Both are much better for it, and will hopefully stay looking good for some years. The
- [Nestbox Survey](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/nestbox-survey/) - Recently, committee member Graham Tuppen and Chairman, David Bettiss carried out our annual survey and cleaning of the various bird nest boxes around the public places in the village. These are situated at Little Twitten, the Village Green and Glebelands, as well as the Ferring Country Centre. It was really pleasing to report that all
- [FCG Recent Group Work Parties](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-recent-group-work-parties/) - In recent weeks, small groups of FCG volunteers have been carrying out practical work around the village in a socially distanced fashion before the second lockdown took effect. Firstly, the annual clear up of the Warren Pond was held, in partnership with the Parish Council who of course own the pond. Bramble, some ivy and
- [Christmas Cards](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/christmas-cards/) - We sold out our stock of cards in October and we have just had a new stock from the printers. The cards are sold by FCG in aid of the Chestnut Tree House children's hospice and are the same views as before at £5 per pack of ten. They are available from Tricia Hall and can
- [FCG Walk on the Gallops above Findon 22nd October](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-walk-on-the-gallops-above-findon-22nd-october/) - This outing was led by Ferring Conservation Group’s bird expert, Clive Hope. Ten members met at Nepcote Green and divided into two groups and proceeded at a leisurely pace up the Gallops and onto the path which runs between Cissbury and Chanctonbury. They later returned along a short section of the Monarch's Way. It was
- [FCG Woodland Walk to Pulborough RSPB Reserve 15th October](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-woodland-walk-to-pulborough-rspb-reserve-15th-october/) - On a beautiful sunny day, 11 members met in the car park and divided into two socially distancing bubbles. Our aim was to look at various trees and fungi as we went on our circular walk through the woods. Our first stop was to admire the outstanding views across the heath to the South Downs.
- [FCG Outing to Patching Hill on Thursday, 27th August led by Clive Hope.](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-outing-to-patching-hill-on-thursday-27th-august-led-by-clive-hope/) - Seventeen members in three bubbles assembled at the small parking area at the north end of Patching at 10am and made their way up the footpath onto the Hill. The weather remained dry but grey and cool. We took our time checking the bushes and grassland for any interesting birds, insects and plants and slowly
- [A Walk along the Ferring Rife to look at Wildlife -  20th August 2020](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/a-walk-along-the-ferring-rife-to-look-at-wildlife-20th-august-2020/) - Despite a gloomy start to the morning, members of Ferring Conservation Group met at the Bluebird Café car park to take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Rife. Tricia Hall, their guide for the morning, set a challenge to find ten listed butterflies along the way, as well as looking for wild flowers,
- [The Rife Trees – March 2018](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-rife-trees-march-2018/) - If you’ve walked along either of the banks of the Ferring Rife recently, in an area that was previously largely devoid of trees, you’ll have noticed the emergence of some young native trees which are providing a very valuable and varied wildlife corridor in the stretch from the road bridge leading into the Ferring Country
- [Waste cooking oil, greener energy and blocked drains?](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/waste-cooking-oil-greener-energy-and-blocked-drains/) - How many of us would make a connection between used cooking oil as a source for cleaner energy and fewer pounds spent on cleaning and repairing drains and sewage treatment plants? The connection might not be that obvious but there is a connection and a very costly one. It is estimated that each year in
- [Houses in Gardens](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/houses-in-gardens/) - We have a long-running campaign against houses being built in residents’ gardens. Even worse, they threaten to destroy the open character of Ferring, they reduce wildlife habitat and natural drainage, and add to the number of cars in the village when congestion and parking problems have already reached record levels. ‘Backland’ development is even worse
- [Nature Notes – 16th June](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/nature-notes-16th-june/) - A few Small Tortoiseshell butterflies have been seen on the Rife. Once exceedingly common, they are now only seen in very small numbers. Their eggs are laid on nettles and there are plenty of these on the Rife so it is unclear why they are in steep decline. If you see any in your garden
- [Nature Notes – 5th June](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/nature-notes-5th-june/) - Yesterday, a Spoonbill was spotted by Ron and Jan Tutheridge flying over Goring Gap. A Cuckoo was also seen and many people have reported hearing a Cuckoo in the second half of May, especially over the Rife and further west. Yesterday, also, Clive Hope saw 4 Bottlenose Dolphins following a trawler off Ferring beach and David Campbell
- [Salsify on Sea Lane – Monday 11th May](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/salsify-on-sea-lane-monday-11th-may/) - Good news! Salsify is flourishing again on Sea Lane. The flowers are purple/pink and the plant is tall with greyish, long, thin leaves. It belongs to the daisy family, the Salsify Compositae, and is closely related to Goatsbeard which has yellow flowers. Goatsbeard is also known as ‘Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon’ because the flowers usually only open in the morning.
- [Nature Notes – 3rd May](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/nature-notes-3rd-may/) - Now that the weather is not so good, you could try these ideas from the comfort of your house: If you are still feeding birds, open your windows and try taking photos of birds on your feeders. You can even try through the glass. Even better if you can get a picture of a bird in
- [Local Wildlife Sightings – 20th April](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/local-wildlife-sightings-20th-april/) - Butterflies: the early blues are Holly Blue and there are now Comma, Peacock and Red Admiral, Green-veined Whites as well as Small White, Brimstones and lots of Orange Tips. Look out for Bee Flies – they have a characteristic long pointed proboscis which is not only used for gathering nectar but also as an ovipositor
- [Woodland Spring Flowers – 13th April](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/woodland-spring-flowers-13th-april/) - If you are lucky enough to be near woodland or can walk along hedgerows, April is the perfect time to identify woodland flowers. Most flower early before they are shaded by the tree canopy above. The following is a list of 20 found in Patching Woods. See how many you can find, some may even
- [Butterfly Observations – 7th April](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/butterfly-observations-7th-april/) - The warm weather is beginning to bring out the butterflies. Look out for the following in your garden or on your daily walk. These are common April butterflies: Peacock, often a pair doing a dance, spiralling into the air. Small Tortoiseshell, often sunning itself on the ground. Orange Tip, small, the female has grey rather
- [The 10 Wild Flower Challenge – 3rd April](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-10-wild-flower-challenge-3rd-april/) - Being confined to Ferring, this is the perfect opportunity to get to know your local wild flowers. Your challenge is to go and identify the 10 flowers I have listed below. Many are what you may call weeds but some can look lovely in a wild place in your garden. I have suggested where you may
- [Observations and Suggestions 28th March](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/observations-and-suggestions-28th-march/) - If you have a nest box or any nest in your garden, this might be a good time to keep a regular watch and record dates of bringing in nesting materials, food, and removal of faecal sacs and later fledgling. When baby birds are being fed it is amazing to see how frequently the adults
- [January Bird Sightings](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/january-bird-sightings/) - On the 21/01/2020, on a lovely sunny morning, Clive and I took a walk up the Rife and on to the East Preston/Ferring Gap. Highlight was a Water Rail just north of the road bridge. On the gap were at least 8 Skylark and 12 plus Pied Wagtail’ There were a few small groups of
- [Bird Sightings](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/bird-sightings/) - There was a good passage of Swallows, House Martins and Meadow Pipits totalling well over a thousand birds moving west along the coast and over the fields at Goring Gap on Monday September 30th on what was one of the calmer mornings of the period. A group of four Wheatears appeared later on the beach
- [Wasp Spider](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/wasp-spider-2/) - Whilst counting butterflies in the lagoons west of the Rife, a Wasp Spider was spotted. This uncommon, introduced species mimics wasps with its black and yellow striped abdomen thus avoiding predators. It builds an orb web with a decoration called the stabilimentum in the centre which may attract its prey. The female is large, 15mm,
- [Making your garden Hedgehog friendly](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/making-your-garden-hedgehog-friendly/) - Avoid using slug pellets. Make it easy for them to come in by making holes in/gaps under fences. If you have hedges, avoid having chicken wire barriers in them. They need holes of approx 15cm/6in diameter. They can climb, but are unlikely to scale a 6 foot fence. Have water available in your garden for
- [Winter Storms - December 2015](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/winter-storms-december-2015/) - Recent storms have pushed the shingle into a steep bank high up on our beach. At low tide it appears that even more sand has disappeared. This is a good time, however, for a beach comb. A lobster was found today together with a good variety of seaweeds and also shells and egg cases. Take
- [Group Meeting – 26th October 2018](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-26th-october-2018/) - At our October meeting Ralph Todd, with technical assistance from his wife Brenda, imparted his knowledge and enthusiasm for Ospreys in an illustrated talk entitled ‘Operation Osprey’. In the 1970’s Ralph and Brenda would at weekends regularly drive from the South East to Loch Garten in Scotland to act as volunteers to help protect and
- [Group Meeting – 28th February 2020](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-28th-february-2020/) - At their February meeting, members of Ferring Conservation Group turned out in good numbers to hear an excellent presentation by their own committee member and wildlife expert, Tricia Hall, on a recent organised trip to the wildlife rich country of Costa Rica in Central America. They learnt that this country makes up just 0.1% of
- [Group Meeting – 31st January 2020](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-31st-january-2020/) - For the first meeting of 2020 Ferring Conservation Group, with a near record attendance, welcomed back Lee Morgan from Lutra Wildlife, a British Columbia based travel and Ecotourism Company offering guided natural history and wildlife holidays. On Lee’s second visit to the Group he gave a fascinating presentation entitled ‘The Natural History of the Canadian
- [Group Meeting – 29th November 2019](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-29th-november-2019/) - For the last monthly meeting of the Group in 2019 Ian Everest came along to enlighten us and also create some nostalgia with a fascinating film and narration of life on a Sussex downland farm. Ian’s interest in the history of Sussex farming dates back to his childhood, which was spent living on a 1,000
- [Group Meeting – 25th October 2019](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-25th-october-2019/) - Kate Bradbury, an award winning author and journalist was warmly welcomed to Ferring Conservation Group’s October meeting. Kate is the author of several books including ‘The Wildlife Gardener’ and is the editor of the wildlife pages of BBC Gardener’s World Magazine. She regularly writes articles for newspapers and often appears on BBC Spring and Autumn
- [Group Meeting – 27th September 2019](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-27th-september-2019/) - Charlotte Owen from the Sussex Wildlife Trust (SWT) was welcomed to Ferring Conservation Group’s September meeting to tell members and visitors about her role as a Wild Call Officer, which she described as ‘the best job in the world’. Charlotte illustrated her talk with many delightful photographs. Based at Wood Mills, the headquarters of the
- [Group Meeting – 26th July 2019](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-26th-july-2019/) - Bernie Forbes, the current President of the Shoreham and District Ornithological Society, was welcomed to Ferring Conservation Group’s July meeting to impart his vast knowledge of birds and his favourite locations in the county to view them. Bernie explained that lesser known bird spotting areas such as Shoreham Napoleonic Fort, the Downs around Lancing College,
- [Group Meeting – 28th June 2019](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-28th-june-2019/) - At Ferring Conservation Group’s June meeting they welcomed David Bathurst the author of many books about walking, including the Sussex Hospice Trail. David’s talk covered six walks in West Sussex out of the series of 19 named long distance walks that link the areas that are served by Hospices throughout East and West Sussex. The
- [Group Meeting – 31st May 2019](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-31st-may-2019/) - Sussex ecologist Laurie Jackson gave a talk to Ferring Conservation Group on 31 May on ‘Looking after our Wild Pollinators’. She said most fruit and vegetable crops depended on insects to carry their pollen to the ovaries of another plant of the same species and that insect populations are falling rapidly, raising real fears of
- [Group Meeting – 26th April 2019](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-26th-april-2019/) - Tricia Hall, the Group’s wildlife expert, delivered a fascinating reflection on a recent holiday in Bulgaria in an illustrated talk entitled ‘Birds, Butterflies and Bears’. Accompanied by her good friends Charles and Eileen Cuthbert, they flew from Gatwick to Sofia, the nation’s capital, for the start of a wildlife holiday that did not go exactly
- [Group Meeting – 29th March 2019](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-29th-march-2019/) - For their March meeting Ferring Conservation Group welcomed Mike Russell a former Sussex Wildlife Trust warden at Woodsmill, and although now retired Mike still helps out there on occasion. Mike gave an interesting and informative talk entitled ‘The Wonder of Migration’ illustrated with many excellent photographs. Mike began by explaining that bird migration is all
- [Group Meeting – 22nd February 2019](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-22nd-february-2019/) - Andrew Cleave MBE is a Hampshire based natural historian with a lifelong passion for wildlife and has written over 20 books on natural history and co-authored many more. Andrew was given a warm welcome to Ferring Conservation Group’s February meeting and gave a fascinating, illustrated lecture entitled ‘Life between the Tides’ to this well attended
- [Group Meeting – 25th January 2019](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-25th-january-2019/) - Transporting the audience nearly 5,000 miles across the Atlantic to British Columbia (BC) on the west coast of Canada, Lee Morgan from Lutra Wildlife and Wilderness gave a fascinating presentation on the diverse and exciting wildlife found along this remarkable coastline. Lee, together with his partner Lindsay Janes, run professionally guided wildlife, natural history and
- [Group Meeting – 30th November 2018](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-30th-november-2018/) - To a record audience of over 100 members and visitors Professor Fiona Matthews from the University of Sussex and Chairman of the Mammal Society, presented an illustrated talk entitled ‘Hedgehogs and their Conservation’. Professor Matthews explained that hedgehogs are one of our most appealing mammals but they seem to be in long-term decline in Great
- [Group Meeting – 28th September 2018](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-28th-september-2018/) - Professor Dave Goulson, a biologist and conservationist from Sussex University, who has spent 25 years studying bees and is the founder of the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, educated around 90 members and visitors with a talk entitled ‘Saving our Bumblebees’. Professor Goulson explained that due to large-scale changes to the way the countryside is managed there
- [Group Meeting – 27th July 2018](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-27th-july-2018/) - Fran Southgate, the Living Landscapes Officer from the Sussex Wildlife Trust (SWT), gave an enlightening presentation to Ferring Conservation Group at their recent monthly meeting entitled ‘The Shaping of Landscapes by Water’. Fran conveyed with passion SWT’s quest to greatly improve and protect the county’s wetland areas with a focus on water voles. Fran explained
- [Group Meeting – 29th June 2018](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-29th-june-2018/) - Ted Green captivated the audience at Ferring Conservation Group’s June meeting by speaking with passion and enthusiasm about his deep knowledge and love of trees. Ted’s professional life began when he was employed as a laboratory technician at Silwood Park, attached to Imperial College, where he had access to the Ancient Woodlands on the nearby
- [Group Meeting – 25th May 2018](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-25th-may-2018/) - Jenny Watkins from British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) gave a fascinating, illustrated presentation covering 30 years of Marine Mammal Rescue in the UK. BDMLR was founded in 1988 and is the only charity covering England, Wales and Scotland totally dedicated to the rescue of marine life such as whales, dolphins, porpoises and seals. They
- [Group Meeting – 27th April 2018](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-27th-april-2018/) - For our April meeting we welcomed Dan Oakley, Lead Ranger from the South Downs National Park International Dark Sky Reserve (IDSR), known as Moore’s Reserve, who gave a fascinating presentation on this important and valuable asset. In 2016 the South Downs National Park became the 2nd (IDSR) in England and 12th in the world. There
- [Group Meeting – 23rd March 2018](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-23rd-march-2018/) - We welcomed back Neil Hulme from Butterfly Conservation for a second visit, this time to take us on a seasonal journey through Sussex with a talk entitled ‘Sublime Sussex Wildlife’, highlighting the wonderful and diverse range of wildlife that we are blessed with in our county. Since his last visit to us Neil has deservedly
- [Group Meeting – 23rd February 2018](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-23rd-february-2018/) - At their end of February meeting at the Village Hall, members of Ferring Conservation Group were entertained by guest presenter, Graeme Lyons, who is the Senior Ecologist at the Sussex Wildlife Trust. He was intending to talk about the Invertebrates of the SWT Reserves, but a late change of plan led to him presenting his
- [Group Meeting – 26th January 2018](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-26th-january-2018/) - Glyn Jones gave a talk to Ferring Conservation Group [on 26 January] on the work of the South Downs Society, trying to protect the Downs from development while opening them up for recreation and quiet enjoyment of the landscape and other heritage assets. The Group was founded in 1923, as the Society of Sussex Downsmen,
- [Group Meeting – November 2017](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-november-2017/) - At our last meeting of the year we welcomed Anne Weinhold who educated us regarding a two-year Heritage Lottery funded project entitled ‘The Last Fisherman Standing’. This inspiring project is run by social enterprise ‘We are FoodPioneers CIC’ and aims to protect and celebrate the heritage of our oldest maritime trade in Worthing. Under this
- [Group Meeting – October 2017](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-october-2017/) - We welcomed David Johnston to open our October Meeting. With an audience of over 70 members and visitors David enchanted us with his fascinating collection of photographs from his delightful book entitled ‘A Sussex Wayfarer’s Nature Notes’. This collection of photographs commenced from 1987 when David and his wife Sue would walk in the Sussex
- [Group Meeting – September 2017](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-september-2017/) - At our September meeting James Sainsbury came along to give us an illustrated talk regarding the History of Cissbury Ring. James, an archaeologist from Worthing Museum and Art Gallery, began by explaining that Cissbury Ring, just north of Worthing, is the largest historic hill fort in Sussex dating back over 5,000 years. From the top
- [Group Meeting – 28th July 2017](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-28th-july-2017/) - At our July meeting, and due to popular demand, we welcomed back David Plummer, an expert international wildlife photographer. David continued to share with us his fascinating accounts of photographing animals and birds in their natural environment. David explained that many of his photographs are the result of many hours and sometimes days of patience,
- [Group Meeting – 30th June 2017](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-30th-june-2017/) - The Group heard from Yvonne Fenter, who is one of the charity’s volunteer speakers, but is also a trustee and wife of the founder of the hospital. It had been set up originally in the village of Eartham, but moved to its current site in 1985 where it continues to this day. There is work
- [Group Meeting – 26th May 2017](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-26th-may-2017/) - Jacob Everitt opened our May meeting with a talk on his search for as many different species of dragonfly that he could identify during 2015. Jacob is a Senior Countryside Warden at Horsham District Council and began by describing to us the difference between dragonflies and damselflies. Dragonflies have joined eyes with no split segment
- [Group Meeting – 28th April 2017](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-28th-april-2017/) - At our April meeting we welcomed Tim McPherson, a Director of the Angling Trust, publisher, angler, naturalist, ornithologist and conservationist. Tim came to talk to us about the work of the Angling Trust, and explained that the biggest threat to sea-angling is the lack of fish brought about by decades of over-fishing and failed management
- [Group Meeting – 31st March 2017](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-31st-march-2017/) - Penny Green, an Ecologist from the Knepp Estate near Horsham, opened our March meeting with a talk entitled ‘Knepp Wildland – A Naturalistic Grazing System’. Penny explained that the Knepp Castle Estate has been privately owned by the Burrell family for over 200 years. The current owner, Sir Charles Burrell, was devoted to traditional arable
- [Group Meeting – 24th February 2017](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-24th-february-2017/) - Neil Hulme, a Project Officer from Butterfly Conservation, gave an informative and interesting, illustrated talk regarding a three year conservation project launched in April 2015 by the wildlife charity, to halt the drastic decline in numbers of two of the rarest woodland butterflies in Sussex. In the 1970’s both the Pearl-bordered and small Pearl-bordered Fritillary
- [Group Meeting – 27th January 2017](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-27th-january-2017/) - At their first member’s meeting of 2017, Ferring Conservation Group had the pleasure of welcoming horticulturist and apple expert Peter May from the Brighton Permaculture Trust to talk to them on the subject of – The History of Apple Growing in Sussex, and Sussex Apples. This was particularly relevant to the Group as they were
- [Group Meeting – 25th November 2016](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-25th-november-2016/) - As November can often prove to be a gloomy month, what better tonic for our Group than to welcome Michael Blencowe into our midst. Michael, in his usual jovial and entertaining manner, introduced us to the world of the nocturnal wildlife of Sussex and beyond. Michael explained that we need to use our ears as
- [Group Meeting – 28th October 2016](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-28th-october-2016/) - Just a couple of weeks after the momentous occasion of the presentation of the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service by the Lord Lieutenant of West Sussex to Ferring Conservation Group, things returned to relative normality for them with the latest in their series of monthly meetings. This time around, they welcomed Ivan Lang as their
- [Group Meeting – 30th September 2016](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-30th-september-2016/) - For our September meeting we welcomed Clare Blencowe, who came to talk to us regarding the work of the Sussex Biodiversity Record Centre (SxBRC). Clare has recently taken up the post of Record Centre Manager and gave us an enthusiastic insight into the importance of the data collected and its diverse uses. One of many
- [Group Meeting – 29th July 2016](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-29th-july-2016/) - For our July Group meeting Dr Geoffrey Mead from the University of Sussex talked to us about the ‘Quiet Corners of the Sussex Coast’. Dr Mead explained that Sussex has a varied coastline and in West Sussex the coast is low lying but in East Sussex there are bold cliffs of chalk and sandstone separated
- [Group Meeting – 24th June 2016](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-24th-june-2016/) - Our Chairman, David Bettiss, opened the meeting with details of our Group winning ‘The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service’, the MBE for volunteer groups. David then went on to welcome Dr Dawn Scott, Assistant Head at Brighton University, and on her second visit to us, this time to talk, in her usual enthusiastic and informative
- [Group Meeting – 27th May 2016](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-27th-may-2016/) - Our Member’s Meeting commenced this year with a talk from Clive Hope on ‘Birds at Goring Gap’. Clive began by telling us that already this year skylarks had been seen hovering overhead and were hopefully nesting among the crops. The numbers of these birds are in decline due to modern farming practices so it is
- [Group Meeting – 29th April 2016](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-29th-april-2016/) - To an audience of over 90 members David Plummer, a professional wildlife photographer, gave us an insight into his work during 2015. David’s extensive knowledge of animals and birds and their environment give him the essential ingredients for his breath-taking images, many of which feature in leading wildlife publications. David only photographs wildlife in the
- [Group Meeting – 18th March 2016](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-18th-march-2016/) - At our March meeting an audience of around 75 keen members and visitors enjoyed an illustrated talk from Paul Stevens on Amphibians and Reptiles in Sussex. As chairman of the Sussex Amphibians and Reptiles Group and with his other role as Grounds Manager at Arundel WWT, Paul came well equipped to educate us in his
- [Group Meeting – 26th February 2016](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-26th-february-2016/) - Our meeting opened with Ed Miller informing us that David Bettiss and Tricia Hall presented a cheque for £600 to Caroline Roberts-Quigley, head of fund-raising at Chestnut Tree House Children’s Hospice. This money was raised from the sale of Christmas cards, calendars and painted pebbles designed and painted by Tricia. Ed went on to say
- [Group Meeting – 29th January 2016](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-29th-january-2016/) - Rachel Curruthers, Household Waste Prevention Officer from West Sussex County Council, gave an interesting and informative talk to around 70 members of Ferring Conservation Group regarding Waste Prevention in West Sussex. Rachel informed us that the UK generates 177 million tonnes of rubbish each year and that just one family uses 6 trees worth of
- [Group Meeting – 27th November 2015](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-27th-november-2015/) - Our Chairman David Bettiss opened the November meeting with news of a proposed Community Orchard at the Glebelands recreation ground. David asked members if they would like to donate Sussex Heritage Fruit Trees available from the Ferring Country Centre. Next on the agenda we were taken on ‘A Sussex Wildlife Safari’ by Michael Blencowe from
- [Group Meeting – 30th October 2015](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-30th-october-2015/) - Around 60 members of Ferring Conservation Group were taken ‘Through the Seasons in a Sussex Woodland’ with a talk and beautifully illustrated slide show by Reg Lanaway. Reg spent his working life at Plumpton Agricultural College, and is still assisting there with environmental issues. The Plumpton estate includes ancient semi-natural woodlands, and it is in
- [Group Meeting – 25th September 2015](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-25th-september-2015/) - Laurie Jackson from the Sussex Mammal Group opened our September meeting with her fascinating, illustrated ‘Introduction to Bats’ presentation. Laurie told us there are over 1,100 species of bats in the world and they are the only true flying mammal. They play an essential part in the natural world and their presence indicate a healthy
- [Group Meeting – 31st July 2015](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-31st-july-2015/) - Stuart Card a Conservationist and Qualified Bird Ringer from Warnham Local Nature Reserve (Warnham LNR) opened our July meeting with a fascinating and informative talk about the ‘Captive Breeding and Re-introduction Programme of Harvest Mice’ at Chesworth Farm, Horsham. To our delight and to give our members the perfect photo opportunity Stuart brought along a
- [Group Meeting – 26th June 2015](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-26th-june-2015/) - For this month only, Ferring Conservation Group held their June meeting at the pleasant St Andrews Church Centre in the village, and were treated to an excellent informative illustrated talk by Jacob Everitt on the topical subject for Ferring of Coastal and Estuarine Birds. Jacob is the Head Warden at the Warnham Local Nature Reserve
- [Group Meeting – 22nd May 2015](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-22nd-may-2015/) - Tom Simpson from the Sussex Wildlife Trust found himself among sympathetic and like-minded people when he gave an interesting and informative presentation to Ferring Conservation Group at their May meeting on the ‘Wild about Worthing’ project. This new project aims to reconnect people with nature and to encourage the joining up of habitats to help
- [Group Meeting – 24th April 2015](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-24th-april-2015/) - Our April meeting incorporated and commenced with the group AGM where the existing committee members were re-elected unopposed.The meeting then received an update of planning issues from Ed Miller. A proposal to improve Ferring Village Green and build a play area for older children was the subject of discussion between Arun District Council, Ferring Parish
- [Group Meeting – 27th March 2015](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-meeting-27th-march-2015/) - Dr Margaret Pilkington, Emeritus, University of Sussex and author, opened our March Group meeting with an illustrated talk on Wildflower Meadows. She began by taking us all back to by-gone days when meadows were plentiful but sadly the majority have been lost in recent decades with changes in agricultural practices and the spread of built
- [Meeting Report – 27th February 2015](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/meeting-report-27th-february-2015/) - Phillip Ellis gave us an informative talk on Water, Rivers, Fish and Trees. With over 40 years’ experience in managing the green estate within MOD, Phillip now specialises in Arboriculture and Angling. Phillip began by emphasising the importance of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) to maintain the integrity of the tree population and how home owners
- [Meeting Report – 30th January 2015](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/meeting-report-30th-january-2015/) - For our first meeting in 2015 we welcomed Dr Robert Hutchinson, a church archaeologist, who talked to us about the work of the Churches Conservation Trust in Sussex. He explained that the CCT is a registered charity established in 1969 by Parliament and the Church of England to look after the most important historic churches
- [Meeting Report – November 28th 2014](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/meeting-report-november-28th-2014/) - A packed hall greeted Michael Blencowe who gave an interesting and highly entertaining presentation on ‘Butterflies and Moths of Sussex’. Michael represents the Sussex branch of Butterfly Conservation which is a registered charity dedicated to the conservation of butterflies and moths. The branch holds regular outdoor events across the county and manages the Butterfly Conservation
- [Meeting Report – October 31st 2014](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/meeting-report-october-31st-2014/) - Our October meeting opened with an interesting and informative presentation by Sue Palmer and Paula Curran entitled Footpaths and Rights of Way (and how to maintain them). Both Sue and Paula are local Parish Path Inspectors that undertake periodic inspections on behalf of WSCC. Their duties include walking the footpaths etc and noting their condition
- [Meeting Report – September 26th 2014](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/meeting-report-september-26th-2014/) - At their latest meeting at Ferring Village Hall, over 50 members of Ferring Conservation Group heard from Fran Southgate of the Sussex Wildlife Trust. As well as working for the Trust, she is also the Ecological Advisor to the Arun and Rother Connections project, and this was the subject of her talk – “Building the
- [Meeting Report – July 25th 2014](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/meeting-report-july-25th-2014/) - Our July meeting was opened by Ed Miller confirming that there were no new planning applications and we do not expect any planning application from Persimmon until Worthing Borough Council consider their options for sites for development. Chairman, David Bettiss announced the launch of our Group’s new website, although there is still some work to
- [A Colourful Addition to Ferring](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/a-colourful-addition-to-ferring/) - We are extremely grateful to Ferring Nurseries who kindly donated all the plants to enable Ferring Conservation Group to brighten up the boat on the Village Green. Ferring Guide Group usually do a splendid job in maintaining this boat but due to Covid19 restrictions they have been unable to do so. We hope you agree
- [Covid and Lockdown](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/covid-and-lockdown/) - We seem to be moving out of lockdown into 'alertness', which means more freedom to go out - keeping the 2 metres 'social distance', or wearing masks where we cannot do that, and that more shops will be opening soon, beginning with Garden Centres. I know that many Conservation Group members have been helping their
- [A virtual visit to Highdown Gardens](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/a-second-touch-of-spring/) - We know that many of our members will miss their usual visit to Highdown Gardens this Spring so please click on the video below and enjoy a short virtual tour of these beautiful Gardens that we are so fortunate to have on our doorstep.
- [Future meetings and activities](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/future-meetings-and-activities/) - Due to the ongoing Coronavirus situation, we have had to cancel the planned beach clean on Saturday 16 May and the next members' meeting on Friday 29 May. We continue to keep our future meetings and activities under regular review, but will of course abide by Government regulations and advice. Any updates on our activities
- [A Taste of Spring](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/a-taste-of-spring/) - Please see below a wonderful video of Arundel Castle Gardens with the tulips in bloom: https://vimeo.com/409761078
- [Nature Notes:](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/please-see-our-nature-notes-page/) - During these unparalleled times it is reassuring to observe that nature continues to thrive all around us. Please see our Nature Notes page for up to date observations and suggestions from the Group's wildlife expert, Tricia Hall.
- [Members' Observations - 1st April 2020](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/nature-notes-1st-april-2020/) - A member writes from Hangleton Lane: 'Wild life revives: we have seen here apart from the resident blue and coal tits doves and pigeons, a fox, a moorhen, three ducks, a heron, a pheasant, and one small rabbit .What a difference it makes when Yeoman’s shuts down!' Another, writes from off Langbury Lane, 'We have the usual
- [A Member's Observations - 2nd April](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/nature-notes-2nd-april-2020/) - A member writes: It has been glorious the last few days on Highdown, with views from the Isle of Wight to the Windfarm and Brighton. On a very clear day it is possible to see Portsmouth's Spinnaker Tower but only at a height from horseback, The Cathedral is easier to pick out. The mass exercising
- [Two Cheerful Photographs of Ferring](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/two-cheerful-photographs-of-ferring/) - The Rife on a sunny spring day and a members front garden in Ferring
- [Cancellation of Members Meetings](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/cancellation-of-members-meetings/) - Due to the ongoing Coronavirus situation, we are cancelling the next two members meetings in March and April. We'll be reviewing the situation after that, and hope to be resuming the meetings once things have improved.
- [Presentation to Chestnut Tree House Children's Hospice](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/presentation-to-chestnut-tree-house-childrens-hospice/) - The Group's Chairman David Bettiss, accompanied by Tricia Hall, recently visited the local Chestnut Tree House Children's Hospice to present a cheque for £600 raised by the sale of Tricia's beautifully designed Christmas Cards. The cards have been sold on behalf of Ferring Conservation Group exclusively to raise funds for the Hospice. The Group are
- [Group Visit to Pagham Harbour](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-visit-to-pagham-harbour/) - A small group of members made their Spring visit to the North Wall at Pagham Harbour, ably led by our local birdwatching expert Clive Hope. It was a windy and pretty chilly day, but this didn't seem to put off the birds. Luckily we managed to avoid the threatened showers, but the wet winter meant
- [The Wadars planning application](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-wadars-planning-application/) - Please see below the information handout from Wadars relating to their recent planning application to develop their site to improve the animal wefare facilities there. It clearly outlines the benefits of the scheme and lays to rest the negative comments made by some. Ferring Conservation Group supports the application - the reference number is FG/6/20.
- [No March work party](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/no-march-work-party/) - Please note that there will be no work party this coming Tuesday - 3 March. But please don't forget the Rife Clean on Saturday 21 March starting at the far end of the Bluebird Cafe cafe cark by the toilets at 11am. Pickers, bags, high vis jackets and gloves are provided, and suggest that you
- [Goring Beach Walk 18th February 2020](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/goring-beach-walk-18th-february-2020/) - On a bright, chilly morning 17 members of Ferring Conservation Group met on the beach at the end of Sea Lane in Ferring. The challenge was to identify as many items as possible on the list that Tricia Hall, the Group’s guide for the morning, had provided. With a keen wind behind them the Group
- [Saddlescombe Farm Open Days](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/saddlescombe-farm-open-days/) - You may be interested in some upcoming events this year at the National Trust run historic farm at Saddlescombe, near Devil's Dyke just north of Brighton and Hove as follows: Farm Open Day on Sunday 28 June from 1030-1530, and a Heritage Open Day on Sunday 20 September also from 1030-1530. These are both free
- [The Rife in Ferring](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-rife-in-ferring/) - Please note that the Rife has burst its bank along the east bank and is impassable at one point. It is now passable, but paths on both banks are still very muddy and slippery (22/2/2020)
- [February/ March walks and visits](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/february-march-walks-and-visits/) - Tuesday 25 February 10am – guided visit to Warnham Nature Reserve (just off A24 at Horsham). Excellent place to view birds at close quarters from the various hides. This is a “get yourselves there” visit but lifts can be arranged. Small admission fee of £2 and light refreshments are available there. Thursday 12 March 10am
- [The 'Good Gym' give FCG a Helping Hand](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-good-gym-give-fcg-a-helping-hand/) - In addition to the scheduled September working party, members of Ferring Conservation Group were joined by a group of 15 enthusiastic members from ‘The Good Gym’. This Group of volunteers from the Worthing area like to keep fit by running together to help older people with one-off tasks; to visit isolated older people and also
- [Persimmon wants to build on the Northern Gap and we want to stop them](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/october-work-party/) - We heard on 30 September that leaflets were being delivered to a few roads in Ferring announcing that Persimmon Homes, the developers, are preparing a planning application for an estate of 465 houses on the farmland west of Goring Street, north of the railway between the railway and the Rife. This is right on the
- [Our Christmas Card](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/our-christmas-card/)
- [Wasp Spider](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/wasp-spider/) - This magnificent Wasp Spider was discovered near the Rife during the 'Big Butterfly Count' on 1st August. The photograph shows the female in her orb web which has a decoration called a stabilimentum which may attract insect prey. Please see 'Nature Notes' to find out more about this fascinating spider.
- ['Big Butterfly Count' 1st August 2019](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/big-butterfly-count-1st-august-2019/) - Meeting in the Bluebird Café car park at the southern end of the Rife, 11 enthusiastic members of Ferring Conservation Group split themselves into two groups and set off along the west bank to endeavour to count as many butterflies and moths as they could find. Tricia Hall gave out lists for members to cross
- [Summer Village Fair 2019](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/summer-village-fair-2019/) - On a sunny, but breezy day, the village of Ferring held their 2019 Summer Village Fair where this popular annual event provided a vibrant and friendly environment for villagers to come together and remind themselves of the many groups and organisations represented that the village has to offer. Ferring Conservation Group were fortunate enough to
- [A Boat Trip to see the Rampion Wind Farm](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/a-boat-trip-to-see-the-rampion-wind-farm/) - On a stormy looking morning a group of us made our way to Brighton Marina hoping that weather conditions would allow the planned boat trip to the Rampion Wind Farm to take place. Fortunately the wind remained low, with only a small sea swell, and the skipper welcomed us on-board Defiance. It took about an
- [A walk to discover the Flowers, Birds and Butterflies of Highdown](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/a-walk-to-discover-the-flowers-birds-and-butterflies-of-highdown/) - A perfect summer day greeted 16 enthusiastic members of Ferring Conservation Group when they met in the car park at Highdown Hill for a morning walk to enjoy the colourful blooms of summer and see birds and butterflies on the wing that frequent this stunning area of the South Downs. Even whilst waiting for the
- [FCG's First Beach Clean of 2019](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcgs-first-beach-clean-of-2019/) - Over forty willing volunteers met at the Bluebird Café car park to carry out Ferring Conservation Group’s first beach clean of the year with help from the youngest volunteer to date, Sophia, at almost three years old. The group spread along the beach as far as Sea Lane with some volunteers working along the shoreline
- [FCG's Bluebell Walk in Clapham Woods](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcgs-bluebell-walk-in-clapham-woods/) - On a morning that was bright and clear, but a bit chilly, members of Ferring Conservation Group recently travelled the short distance to Clapham Woods (just off the Long Furlong road) for a woodland bluebell walk ably led by Group committee member, Graham Tuppen. Setting off across the fields by the village church, the group
- [FCG's Clean Up of the Rife](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcgs-clean-up-of-the-rife/) - Ferring Conservation Group’s annual clean-up of the banks of the Rife took place on Saturday 23rd March. Around twenty five members, including two keen junior members, met in the Bluebird Café car park and as in previous years once the usual litter pickers, hi-vis jackets and black bags had been issued the group formed two
- [FCG Visit to Pagham Harbour](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-visit-to-pagham-harbour/) - At the end of March, a party of Ferring Conservation Group members made their way to the Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve for their annual spring time visit and in order to savour all that the area has to offer in terms of wildlife and tranquility. The day was led as normal by member and local
- [FCG's Latest Activities](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcgs-latest-activities/) - Beach Walk On February 26th, a glorious sunny day, twelve members of the Conservation Group met at the south end of Sea lane in Ferring for a walk to Goring. An initial excitement was the spotting of a Merlin, our smallest raptor. David Cambell, a local expert, pointed out the bird which was sitting in
- [Worthing Conservation Volunteers](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/worthing-conservation-volunteers/) - The above group which carries out excellent practical conservation work around the Worthing area are looking for more volunteers to help them. Their regular work parties start at 10am and end by 3.30pm on the designated day, but they welcome any help at all for however long. The next work party is on Sunday 17
- [A Walk to identify Ferring Village trees in winter on 4th December](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/walk-to-identify-ferring-village-trees-in-winter-on-4th-december/) - A cloudless blue sky greeted 14 members of Ferring Conservation Group when they met up with Tricia Hall, their guide for the morning, on the Village Green. Tricia set a challenge and distributed a list of eleven trees which she asked the group to identify during the walk. On the Village Green itself an impressive
- [Goring Gap Bird Walk - 28th October 2018](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/goring-gap-bird-walk-28th-october-2018/) - On a cold and breezy October Sunday morning, a healthy turn out of Ferring Conservation Group members met at the sea end of Sea Lane, Ferring for a guided birdwatching walk around Goring Gap with new member and local bird expert, David Campbell. The morning started with a scan of the beach at a number
- [Autumn Fruits Walk at Highdown Hill on 15th October](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/autumn-fruits-walk-at-highdown-hill-on-15th-october-2018/) - Taking advantage of a glorious sunny and warm afternoon 18 members of Ferring Conservation Group met at Highdown Hill car park. With Tricia Hall as their knowledgeable guide they were led along the upper path and asked to consider the different ways in which seeds disperse throughout the countryside. Tricia explained the various ways that
- [FCG Beach Clean September 2018](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-beach-clean-september-2018/) - Around 30 members of Ferring Conservation Group met by the beach huts to take part in the last beach clean of 2018. Jenny Gritxi, the event organiser, gathered the Group together and explained that the results would count towards, and be submitted to, the Marine Conservation Society’s annual nationwide beach clean. After the necessary health
- [FCG Visit to the Black Rocks at West Kingston](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-visit-to-the-black-rocks-at-west-kingston/) - On 13th August, a sunny but windy evening, around 30 members of Ferring Conservation Group met at the Bluebird Café car park for an early evening walk to the Black Rocks at West Kingston. These rocks lay several hundred metres out from the beach and consist of lumps of conglomerate and are only exposed at
- [FCG's Butterfly Count and Work Party Report](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcgs-butterfly-count-and-work-party-report/) - Anybody driving or walking in Sea Lane, Ferring on the last day of July might have wondered why about 20 people were armed with rakes and working hard on the grass verge at the sea end of the road. Well – these were volunteers from Ferring Conservation Group on one of their monthly work parties
- [FCG Bluebell Walk 22nd May](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-bluebell-and-wildlife-walk-22nd-may/) - Members of Ferring Conservation Group met in French Lane, Patching, to look for Bluebells and other wildlife on the beautiful Angmering Park Estate in the heart of the South Downs National Park. Led by Tricia Hall, the Group’s wildlife expert, we headed off across a public footpath in the direction of the woods. As our
- [Latest News From FCG](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/latest-news-from-fcg/) - Members of Ferring Conservation Group have been busy recently with more practical work carried out in the village, as well as taking part in a local guided bird walk. A group of volunteers descended on the Village Green, as part of their series of regular monthly work parties, to re-plant the existing herb bed near
- [FCG Beach Clean](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-beach-clean/) - Clear skies and warm sunshine greeted over forty members of Ferring Conservation Group when they met at Ferring Beach for the second beach clean of the year. Once kitted out with hi-vis jackets, black sacks and litter pickers the group was addressed by Thomas Kearns, at nine years old one of the youngest members of
- [FCG's Visit to Warnham Nature Reserve](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcgs-visit-to-warnham-nature-reserve/) - With a fine day on our side members of Ferring Conservation Group met at Warnham Nature Reserve to take advantage of the chance to explore this gem of a wildlife haven tucked away near the town of Horsham. This 92 acres of land was designated as a nature reserve in 1988 and includes a 17
- [FCG's March Working Party](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcgs-march-working-party/) - Ferring Conservation Group’s monthly Working Party met at the Village Green and was attended by 10 members. This month they concentrated on cutting back the Dogwood and Buddleia shrubs. Also the herb bed was dug over ready for planting more herbs later in the spring.
- [FCG's visit to Chestnut Tree House Children's Hospice](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/chestnut-tree-house-childrens-hospice/) - Chairman of the Group, David Bettiss, and Tricia Hall visited the local Chestnut Tree House Children's Hospice to present their fund raiser Caroline Roberts-Quigley with a cheque for well over £700 – this being the proceeds for the seventh year running of the sale of Christmas cards produced by the Group. Over these years, thousands
- [FCG Southdowns Bird Walk 31st October 2017](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-southdowns-bird-walk-31st-october-2017/) - With ideal weather conditions on our side members of Ferring Conservation Group met at Michelgrove Lane on the Angmering Park Estate, in the hope of seeing a variety of bird life. We were not disappointed. This private estate extends to over 6,750 acres and is owned by the Trustees of the late Bernard, 16th Duke
- [New monthly work parties](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/new-monthly-work-parties/) - Starting in February, we will now be organising monthly work parties for anybody interested to help out at the various locations around the village where carry out practical activities to maintain and improve the local natural environment. These will always be held on the first Tuesday of the month between 10am and midday. Details of
- [Conservation Work continues in Ferring](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/conservation-work-continues-in-ferring/) - Members of Ferring Conservation Group have recently been carrying out more practical work in the village in order to improve our local environment and particularly to make it a more welcoming place for our wildlife. In the first of our regular monthly small work parties, a number of members met at the Glebelands Recreation Ground
- [A Walk around Horsham](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/a-walk-around-horsham/) - On a blustery October morning around 20 members of Ferring Conservation Group met at Horsham Museum for a guided tour to discover some of the hidden secrets of this historic town with our guide for the day, Patricia Hall. This walk followed the trail in the book written and beautifully illustrated by Patricia about Horsham,
- [Little Egrets spotted by the banks of the Rife](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/little-egrets-spotted-by-the-banks-of-the-rife/) - Kathryn Stillman kindly sent us a photograph she took of 24 Little Egrets in a tree on the west bank of the Rife opposite the footpath to Clover Lane.
- [FCG members do their bit for the village](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-members-do-their-bit-for-the-village/) - Members of the Group this week teamed up with volunteers organised by West Sussex County Council to improve the 3 footpaths leading from the village to the Ferring Rife – these are at the far ends of Brook Lane, Clover Lane and Ferringham Way. The paths had been overgrown by vegetation and the surfaces were
- [Latest Group news](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/christmas-wishes/) - Latest planning applications Ferring Conservation Group objected to two recent applications for flats in Ferring. The Beehive Lane flats were, in the end, allowed (with some reduction in scale). FG/198/16, for the demolition of the existing house and building eight 2-bedroom flats at 1 Sea Drive, was finally approved on 24 August. Such a development here, on
- [FCG Members and Beavers Group - Beach Walk June 2017](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-members-and-beavers-group-beach-walk-june-2017/) - In June, 3 members of the Ferring Conservation Group met up with the Beavers associated with the 2nd Worthing Scouts on the beach at Sea Lane. Beavers are the youngest members of the Scout movement, and are aged between 6 and 8 years. They are given the chance to take part in a wide range
- [Visit to Warnham Nature Reserve July 2017](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/visit-to-warnham-nature-reserve-july-2017/) - On 11th July, 10 members of Ferring Conservation Group met at Warnham Nature Reserve near Horsham. It was pouring with rain, but, undeterred, our guide Jacob Everitt, ecologist and reserve warden for Horsham D.C., netted a Common Blue Damselfly roosting by a pond and gave us a lively demonstration of its anatomy. He showed us
- [Highdown Nature Walk July 2017](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/highdown-nature-walk-july-2017/) - Around 15 members turned up on a rather hot day to look at birds, flowers and butterflies.We met at the Highdown car park and set off round the top of the gardens, with Tricia Hall in charge of identifying wildlife. The grass meadow was alive with grasshoppers and many meadow brown butterflies, plus a few burnet
- [Summer Social](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/summer-social/) - The Group's annual Summer Social takes place at Ferring Village Hall on Sat 26 August, starting at 6.30pm. As usual, this will include a hot buffet style meal and a dessert, as well as a your first drink. The menu this year will be as follows: Choice of Chicken breast in cream and mushroom sauce,
- [Information on helping hedgehogs](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/information-on-helping-hedgehogs/) - Our hedgehogs are really struggling. Have a look at a new short article in the Nature Notes section of this website, written by committee member, Graham Tuppen, to see what you might be able to do in your garden to help them. A number have been seen recently around the village in gardens, so there
- [Ferring Conservation Group Orchid and Bird Walk 13th June 2017](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/ferring-conservation-group-orchid-and-bird-walk-13th-june-2017/) - A group of 20 members from Ferring Conservation Group, and Shoreham District Ornithological Society turned out on Tues 13th June in glorious sunshine to walk along the Rife from the Bluebird Cafe up to the Ferring Country Centre with the aim of enjoying the varied wildlife, expertly led by Tricia Hall. Notable trees and shrubs, some
- [Bluebell Walk in Clapham Woods](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/bluebell-walk-in-clapham-woods/) - On a cold but sunny morning around 30 members of Ferring Conservation Group met at St Mary the Virgin Parish Church at Clapham in search of bluebells and other wild flowers. This flint stone church has stood firm since the 13th century and made a picturesque start as we set out towards the woods. Our
- [Pagham Harbour Visit and Rife Clean](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/pagham-harbour-visit-and-rife-clean/) - On a cloudy March morning a small group of enthusiastic members from Ferring Conservation Group met at the North Wall end of Pagham Harbour with hope of spotting as many species of wild bird as possible. In this peaceful nature reserve we were soon rewarded with a distant sighting of a solitary Spotted Redshank foraging
- [Tree Activities](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/tree-activities/) - In contrasting weather members of Ferring Conservation Group have been busy carrying out activities associated with trees in the village. On a beautiful, bright and spring like January morning around 20 members congregated at the Group’s Community Orchard situated on the Glebelands recreation ground. The task was to dig compost around the base of the
- [Ferring village news](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/ferring-village-news/) - To keep members updated on important Ferring village matters, please see the below: Proposed closure of both Ferring public toilets - Arun DC are proposing to close both of our village public toilets to save money and provide better facilities elsewhere in the district (not much use if you need them urgently!). I have written
- [Formal Presentation of the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/formal-presentation-of-the-queens-award-for-voluntary-service/) - Ferring Conservation Group has been honoured with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK. On Tuesday, 11th October around 70 people gathered in St Andrew’s Church Centre, Ferring, for the formal presentation. This prestigious award marks the respect in which the Queen holds all those
- [September Evening Bat Walk and Beach Clean](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/september-evening-bat-walk-and-beach-clean/) - In the latest of their busy schedule of activities, Ferring Conservation Group recently organised a well attended evening Bat Walk around the village, which was hosted by Laurie Jackson from the Sussex Bat Group. Before heading out on the walk, Laurie entertained members with a highly informative talk about bats, highlighting the fact that West
- [FCG Summer Bug Hunt 2016](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-summer-bug-hunt-2016/) - On a beautiful bright summer morning 10 keen eyed children accompanied by 20 enthusiastic adults met at the Bluebird Café car park and headed north along the west bank of the River Rife in search of as many insect species that we could find. Armed with bug nets, bug pots and magnifying glasses we soon
- [Arun DC proposal to close and demolish BOTH Ferring public toilets](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/arun-dc-proposal-to-close-and-demolish-both-ferring-public-toilets/) - Ferring Conservation Group in partnership with Ferring Parish Council and local District Councillors is fighting plans by Arun DC to close and demolish both of our village public toilets - at the Village Green and at the Rife near the Bluebird cafe. At a well attended public meeting earlier this week, there was total opposition
- [FCG Visit to the Steyning Downland Scheme](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-visit-to-the-steyning-downland-scheme/) - On Tuesday, 9th August, on a beautiful sunny day, members met in the car park at Steyning Grammar School for a walk up onto the Downs above Steyning. Our guide was David Buckett, an active volunteer for the Steyning Downland Scheme. The project manages 160 acres of woodland, wetland and, especially, species-rich chalk grassland in
- [Postcard photo competition](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/postcard-photo-competition/) - As was announced at the June members meeting, we are planning to produce a number of postcards of local views of Ferring with a view to selling them via local outlets and at meetings, events etc. to raise funds for the group. We are inviting members to submit their own photos of suitable scenes which
- [Ferring Conservation Group Visits Ford Materials Recycling Facility (MRF)](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/ferring-conservation-group-visits-ford-materials-recycling-facility-mrf/) - On Wednesday 25th May 13 members of Ferring Conservation Group visited Ford Materials Recycling Facility (MRF). After signing in we were shown to our seats in the Education Centre where we received an informative and interesting talk about what happens to all the recyclates we place in our household bins. The MRF is operated by
- [Goring Gap caravan and camping site planning application -  refused](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/goring-gap-caravan-and-camping-site-planning-application/) - The following planning application has just been refused by Adur and Worthing Borough Council: Land South East corner of Amberley Drive/ Marine Drive at Goring - Change of use of land to caravan and camping site with 46 pitches. Erection of amenity block building comprising toilets and showers, laundry room, store, office and reception. Construction of
- [The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service 2016](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-queens-award-for-voluntary-service-2016/) - I am delighted to inform you that it has just been officially announced that Ferring Conservation Group has been honoured with the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service. This is fantastic news for the Group as it is the highest award a voluntary group such as ourselves can receive in the UK and it is the
- [Beach Clean 7th May 2016](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/beach-clean-7th-may-2016/) - On Saturday 7th May 30 members of Ferring Conservation Group attended the second beach clean of 2016. The good weather made a welcome change as the last few beach clean events took place during torrential rain or very high winds. Around 15 bags of rubbish were collected including a Cossack hat amongst other litter which consisted
- [Update on Patching Woods Bluebell walk](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/update-on-patching-woods-bluebell-walk/) - In the latest of the series of local natural history visits, a group of members ventured into Patching Woods near to the village of Patching in a hunt for bluebells (and other wild plants) and to listen for seasonal birdsong. Straight away on entering the woods, they were greeted by an amazing vista of blue
- [Bluebird Cafe licence hearing](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/bluebird-cafe-licence-hearing/) - The recent application by the Bluebird Cafe in Ferring to extend its operating hours and make other changes will be heard by the Arun DC Licensing Committee this coming Monday 25 April at 9.30am at the Glebelands Centre in Greystoke Road. This is the only item on the agenda. Sadly, only the people informed by
- [Pagham Harbour visit - 5 April](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/pagham-harbour-visit-5-april/) - A party of Ferring Conservation Group members met up in Church Lane, Pagham in bright sunshine for a birdwatching visit led by Group member and bird expert, Clive Hope. The party made their way round to the North Wall of Pagham Harbour taking in all the birds en route, which started with a very obliging
- [Bluebird Cafe licence application](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/bluebird-cafe-licence-application/) - The Bluebird cafe on Ferring seafront has applied for a 'pub' - type licence enabling alcohol to be sold between 10am and midnight six days a week (10.30pm on Sundays). At present, there is a 'restaurant' - type licence where alcohol can only be served with a substantial meal, indoors only, between 10am and 11pm.
- [Presentation to Chestnut Tree House Children's Hospice](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/presentation-to-chestnut-tree-house/) - David Bettiss and Tricia Hall presenting a cheque for £600 to Caroline Roberts-Quigley Head of Fund Raising at Chestnut Tree House Children's Hospice. This money was raised from the sale of Christmas cards, calendars and painted pebbles designed and painted by Tricia.
- [Rife and Country Centre tree planting](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/rife-and-country-centre-tree-planting/) - On Tuesday 15th March, a band of volunteers from Ferring Conservation Group gathered on the banks of Ferring Rife for a tree planting morning. Over 100 native trees had been obtained by the Group from the Woodland Trust to add to those trees already planted in the area over the last five years. The long
- [Community Orchard Planting Project 11th February 2016](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/community-orchard-planting-project-11th-february-2016/) - On a beautiful sunny, but cold February morning 30 volunteers met at the Glebelands Recreation Ground in Ferring with spades at the ready to plant our first Community Orchard. The orchard consists of 19 trees including 13 apple trees (all Sussex heritage varieties such as Tinsley Quince, Egremont and Alfriston), plus 2 pears, 2 plums
- [Winter Beach Clean 7th February 2016](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/winter-beach-clean-7th-february-2016/) - 24 members met by the beach huts for an extra beach clean following stormy weather with high tides. A lot of wood had been deposited on the beach togather with plastic buoys and old lobster pots. It was extremely windy making it difficult to pick up tiny bits of paper and plastic so we concentrated
- [Bird Walk on 2nd February 2016](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/bird-walk-on-2nd-february-2016/) - At 0945 on Tuesday morning it was grey, damp and chilly and it didn't bode well for our planned walk to Michelgrove lane but by the time the seven of us had assembled under the trees near Michelgrove House and set off, the skies gradually cleared so by 1100 it was near cloudless and very
- [FCG response to Pattersons Walk Tamarisk trees consultation](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcg-response-to-pattersons-walk-tamarisk-trees-consultation/) - Please see below our formal response to the Arun DC consultation on the much loved Tamarisk trees on Pattersons Walk, which has been sent to Martyn Burkinshaw at Arun. If you feel strongly as we do that these trees should be preserved, then please send your own response to him in writing at the Parks
- [More practical work by Ferring Conservation Group in the village](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/more-practical-work-by-ferring-conservation-group-in-the-village/) - On the morning of Sat 7 November, 25 members of Ferring Conservation Group and councillors from Ferring Parish Council braved the rain to carry out their annual clearance of the surrounds of the much loved Warren Pond in the village. The pond is now under the ownership of the Parish Council and it is being
- [Tree Identification Walk 3rd November 2015](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/tree-walk-next-tuesday-3-november/) - Dressed appropriately for predicted showers 20 keen members of Ferring Conservation Group set out on a ‘Tree Identification Walk’ led by Tricia Hall our Group’s knowledgeable wildlife expert. Our route took us from the Bluebird Café car park in Ferring along the west bank of the River Rife and across to Kingston Village. Jane Hayman
- [Beach Clean 19th September 2015](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/beach-clean-19th-september-2015/) - Around 25 members of Ferring Conservation Group set out on Saturday 19th September on what was a glorious day in comparison to the two previous beach cleans in 2015. This beach clean was carried out as part of the ‘Great British Beach Clean’ championed by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS). This is an annual, national
- [Ferring Conservation Group Visit to the Black Rocks](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/ferring-conservation-group-visit-to-the-black-rocks/) - Crabs and Sharks 16 Conservation Group members met at 5.30pm in the Bluebird cafe car park for a warm and sunny early evening visit to the Black Rocks at West Kingston. We were taking advantage of the exceptional spring tide following the 'supermoon' of the day before. The moon was at its perigee, its shortest
- [Can you help on 2 Ferring work days?](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/can-you-help-on-2-ferring-work-days/) - We're holding 2 separate practical work days coming up soon in the village - can you help us? Firstly, we're working on cutting back the undergrowth around our planted trees on the Rife. This will be at 10am on Weds 14th Oct (please note this date has changed from the one announced at the last
- [The Beehive Application - news flash](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/the-beehive-application-news-flash/) - The above planning application for a block of 10 apartments in Beehive Lane has today been refused by the officers of Arun District Council, without needing to go to the Planning Committee. The developer still has of course a right to appeal this decision in due course. Many thanks to the well over 300 local
- [Over 300 letters of objection to the Beehive planning application](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/over-300-letters-of-objection-to-the-beehive-planning-application/) - The final figure for written objections to the plan to build a 10-apartment block on the site of the Beehive Cottage in Beehive Lane, Ferring was over 300. We now await the decision of Arun District Council!
- [Update on the Beehive planning application](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/update-on-the-beehive-planning-application/) - As of today (26 August) there are well over 160 objections to this application on the Arun DC website. This illustrates just how unpopular it is, but you still have time to lodge your objection if you wish to do so. You have until the closing date for comments on Thurs 3 September. If you're thinking about doing
- [Apartment block to replace thatched cottage in Ferring?](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/apartment-block-to-replace-thatched-cottage-in-ferring/) - Ferring residents have been stunned by the news that a developer has applied to replace an attractive thatched cottage in a key location with an apartment block. The cottage has been a landmark feature in south Ferring for three generations ‘There will be very strong resistance to this application’, said David Bettiss, Chairman of Ferring
- [Big Butterfly Count and Wildflower Walk](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/big-butterfly-count-and-wildflower-walk-2/) - Over 20 members of Ferring Conservation Group met up this week on the Ferring Rife to make their contribution to the national Big Butterfly Count organised by the Butterfly Conservation organisation. This was combined with a Summer flower challenge to see how many different plants could be seen. Members split up into a number of
- [July meeting - change of speaker](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/july-meeting-change-of-speaker/) - For our next members meeting on Friday July 31st (7.30pm back at Ferring Village Hall), we will now be having a visit from Stuart Card, who is a warden at Warnham Local Nature Reserve. He will be giving us a talk on - An Introduction to the Captive Breeding Programme of Harvest Mice at Warnham
- [Summer Social tickets now on sale](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/summer-social-tickets-now-on-sale-2/) - Summer Social tickets now on sale Takes place at 6.30pm Saturday 22 August at the Village Hall Priced at £10 each – to include a choice of hot main course and choice of dessert, plus free glass of wine or fruit juice An enjoyable evening of good food, good company, good conversation and good entertainment
- [June Meeting - change of speaker](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/june-meeting-change-of-speaker/) - We are sorry to let you know that there will be a change of speaker at our meeting on Friday June 26th at 7.30pm (for this meeting only at St Andrews Church Hall). The speaker on Thatching has unfortunately cancelled his booking, but we have been able to bring forward the July speaker to this
- [Group Visit to Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust at Arundel](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-visit-to-wildfowl-and-wetlands-trust-at-arundel/) - On a sunny but cold and windy day around 25 members of Ferring Conservation Group enjoyed a visit to Arundel Wetlands Centre. Originally built on an old watercress farm the Centre covers 65 acres and is nestled in the scenic South Downs with views of Arundel Castle. With steep woodlands stretching along its rear boundary
- [What's on in May](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/whats-on-in-may/) - We have 2 events planned for the first two weeks in May. They are as follows: 1. Tuesday 5 May (note change of date as this was going to be Sat 2/5) - a Spring Birdsong walk around Goring Gap. Meet at the bottom of Sea Lane, Ferring at the earlier time of 9am (to ensure that we
- [Change to this Friday's meeting](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/change-to-this-fridays-meeting/) - We're sorry to announce that our speaker for this week's meeting - Paul Millward (the Goring fisherman) - is no longer able to join us for personal reasons again. We are not able to find a replacement speaker at short notice but will be showing an interesting film about the local area instead. We will also
- [FCG's River Rife 'clear up' and walk to the Black Rocks ](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcgs-river-rife-clear-up-and-walk-to-the-black-rocks/) - On Saturday 21st March 20 members of Ferring Conservation Group braved a cold northerly wind to help clear up the banks of the River Rife. This coincided with the first ever national ‘Community Clear Up Day’. This ‘national spring clean’ event falls on the first official day of spring and aims to end the blight
- [FCG's Group Meeting 27th February 2015](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcgs-group-meeting-27th-february-2015/) - Water, Rivers, Fish and Trees Phillip Ellis gave us an informative talk on Water, Rivers, Fish and Trees. With over 40 years’ experience in managing the green estate within MOD, Phillip now specialises in Arboriculture and Angling. Phillip began by emphasising the importance of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) to maintain the integrity of the
- [Latest on Goring Gap](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/latest-on-goring-gap/) - See the latest update on the future of Goring Gap on our Planning News page on this website - it is very informative.
- [Dates for your Diary](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/dates-for-your-diary/) - Some events during March and April to note down in your diary as follows: Sat 21st March - we have 2 separate events on the Rife and the Beach at Ferring. At 11am, we will be holding our annual clean up of the banks of the Rife. Meet in the Bluebird Cafe car park. Pickers,
- [Raptors and Downland Birds Walk Tuesday 13th January](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/raptors-and-downland-birds-walk-tuesday-13th-january/) - Amid some dark and gloomy days an unexpected break in the weather provided an ideal opportunity for members of Ferring Conservation Group to enjoy a walk on the South Downs around Burpham. Under a clear blue sky and with only a light breeze around 14 members set out in search of raptors and downland birds.
- [Shoreham/Lancing Sea and Riverside Birds Guided Visit](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/shorehamlancing-sea-and-riverside-birds-guided-visit/) - The next Group guided visit - this time to the Shoreham and Lancing area - will take place on Thursday 5th February, and will be led by member and experienced birdwatcher, John Dixon who will help us to identify a variety of coastal and river birds. We'll meet at 10.30am at the Harbour Way free car park
- [Great Result for Ferring in Neighbourhood Plan Referendum](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/great-result-for-ferring-in-neighbourhood-plan-referendum/) - The Ferring Neighbourhood Plan Referendum which took place on 10 December returned an overwhelming 82.66% YES vote in favour of the plan, and the 3 Community Right to Build Orders (CRTBOs) were also passed with well over 70% in favour of these. We understand that the CRTBOs were the first in the country to be
- [FCG's Group Meeting 28th November 2014  ](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/fcgs-group-meeting-28th-november-2014/) - A packed hall welcomed Michael Blencowe who gave an interesting and highly entertaining presentation on ‘Butterflies and Moths of Sussex’. Michael represents the Sussex branch of Butterfly Conservation which is a registered charity dedicated to the conservation of butterflies and moths. The branch holds regular outdoor events across the county and manages the Butterfly Conservation
- [Why Conservationists support the Neighbourhood Plan](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/why-conservationists-support-the-neighbourhood-plan/) - Since 2001, Ferring Conservation Group has opposed every planning application for additional houses in Ferring. So why are we supporting a Neighbourhood Plan that promises more house building? It’s because Arun District Council’s new Local Plan calls for 50 additional dwellings in Ferring over the next 15 years and there is simply no way
- [New Tawny Owl box at Warren Pond](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/new-tawny-otawnywl-box-at-warren-pond/) - Following on from the recent practical clearance work at Warren Pond in South Ferring carried out by Ferring Conservation Group volunteers in partnership with Ferring Parish Council, the latest improvement was the installation of a Tawny Owl nestbox on a Lime tree adjacent to the pond. The box was donated by a local resident, and
- [Village Green bulb planting](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/village-green-bulb-planting/) - On 21st October, a working party of Ferring Conservation Group members met on the Village Green at Ferring to carry out some bulb planting in partnership with Arun District Council. Hundreds of bulbs including some native daffodils, various varieties of tulips, as well as crocus were planted in the bed on the north side of
- [News from the recent Neighbourhood Plan meeting](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/news-from-the-recent-neighbourhood-plan-meeting/) - The special meeting of the Group on the proposed Ferring Neighbourhood Plan which took place on 20th October at the Village Hall was a success with over 100 local people attending. There were many questions and points from the audience which were ably answered by the panel of Carole Robertson, Ed Miller and Paul Webster.
- [Ferring Neighbourhood Plan Public Meeting](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/ferring-neighbourhood-plan-public-meeting/) - The Group fully supports the implementation of the Plan, which will be going to a public referendum across the Village on December 10th. To help residents of the Village become better informed about its proposals, the Group will be holding a Public Meeting at Ferring Village Hall on Monday October 20th starting at 7.30pm. Speakers
- [Help required at Warren Pond](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/help-required-at-warren-pond/) - We are shortly to commence the restoration of this much loved pond in Ferring, which is now owned by Ferring Parish Council. Much work needs to be done in partnership with the Council over the coming months, but this will start with a work day on Saturday October 11th commencing at 10am. The work on
- [Autumn Walk to Highdown Tuesday October 7](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/autumn-walk-to-highdown-tuesday-october-7/) - Join us for a walk from North Ferring up on to the Downs at Highdown to see Autumn Fruits and Berries and some late wild flowers. Meet at 10am at the Ferring Worthing Garden Centre (ex Wyevale) car park on the A259 Littlehampton Road. Walk up Hangleton Lane skirting the quarry, and make a half
- [Great British Beach Clean](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/great-british-beach-clean/) - Please help us to carry out the last formal clean up of the year of Ferring Beach on Saturday September 20th - meeting at the east end of the Bluebird Cafe car park at 11am. This is part of the nationwide Great British Beach Clean co-ordinated by the Marine Conservation Society, and it will be
- [Summer Bug Hunt a great success](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/summer-bug-hunt-a-great-success/) - See the report of last week's Bug Hunt along the Rife on the Nature Notes page

## Pages

- [Forthcoming Meetings](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/forthcoming-meetings/) - All meetings are held at Ferring Village Hall (except June at St Andrew's Church Centre) on the last Friday of the month when happening. Admission is £2 for members and £3 for visitors, who are always very welcome. This includes tea and biscuits at half time. 2026 Jan 30 2.30pm The Story
- [Beach Clean Dates](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/beach-clean-dates/) - Beach Clean and Rife Clean dates 2026 *Please note that our four clean ups will be held on Sundays. Also, instead of the beach clean in July, we will be doing a Village Centre clean, starting on the Village Green* Rife clean - Sunday 8 March Beach cleans - Sunday 17 May, and Sunday 27
- [Cookie Policy](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/cookies/) - Website Cookie Policy How we use cookies We use cookies to provide the best experience on our website. We use cookies to make our website work properly. We use cookies to help protect our website's security and help fight spam. We also use cookies to capture anonymous information to help us understand how our website
- [Our Green Spaces](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/our-green-spaces/) - The Conservation Group's view of major issues for planning policy affecting Ferring
- [Group Contacts](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/group-contacts/) - Contacts for the Ferring Conservation Group in Ferring, West Sussex. A group that campaigns against planning, studies wildlife, meets regularly and organises trips and walks
- [ProGaps - Protecting our Gaps and Green Spaces](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/progaps-protecting-our-gas-and-green-spaces/) - We have teamed up with conservation and amenity groups and residents' associations all along the coast from Rustington to Worthing to resist, together, all attacks on our Gaps and other green spaces by housing developers and commercial enterprises. Every planning application in these areas will be opposed, and objection e mails and letters sent, to
- [History of the Group](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/history-of-the-group/) - Ferring Conservation Group is one of Ferring's largest organisations with nearly 900 members. We campaign against development, study local wildlife, carry out practical work, organise walks and trips and meet regularly.
- [Campaigns](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/campaigns/) - Protecting our Gaps Ferring Conservation Group has
- [Nature Notes](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/nature-notes/) - Nature Notes - 16th June A few Small Tortoiseshell butterflies have been seen on the Rife. Once exceedingly common, they are now only seen in very small numbers. Their eggs are laid on nettles and there are
- [Meeting Reports](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/meeting-reports/) - Group Meeting - 28th February 2020 At their February meeting, members of Ferring Conservation Group turned out in good numbers to hear an excellent presentation by their own committee member and wildlife expert, Tricia Hall, on a recent organised trip to the wildlife rich country of Costa Rica in Central America. They learnt that this
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/privacy/) - Privacy Policy Details This website privacy policy describes how Ferring Conservation Group protects and makes use of the information you give the company when you use this website. If you are asked to provide information when using this website, it will only be used in the ways described in this privacy policy. This policy is
- [Archives](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/archives/)
- [Terms and Conditions](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/terms/) - This agreement applies as between you, the User of this Web Site and Ferring Conservation Group, the owner of this Web Site. Your agreement to comply with and be bound by these terms and conditions is deemed to occur upon your first use of the Web Site. If you do not agree to be bound
- [Environmental Updates and News](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/environmental-updates-and-news/) - The Rife Trees - March 2018, by David Bettiss If you've walked along either of the banks of the Ferring Rife recently, in an area that was previously largely devoid of trees, you'll have noticed the emergence of some young native trees which are providing a very valuable and varied wildlife corridor in the stretch
- [Contact](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/contact/) - Contact the Ferring Conservation Group

## Categories

- [News](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/category/news/) - News
- [Conservation](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/category/conservation/)
- [Monthly Meeting Reports](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/category/monthly-mtg-reports/)
- [Nature notes](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/category/nature-notes/)
- [Campaigns](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/category/campaigns/)
- [Environmental Updates](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/category/environmental-updates/)
- [Visits](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/category/visits/)
- [The Planning Process](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/category/the-planning-process/)

## Tags

- [Events](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/tag/events/)
- [Outings](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/tag/outings/)
- [Practical Work](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/tag/practical-work/)
- [Campaigns](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/tag/campaigns/)
- [ProGaps](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/tag/progaps/)
- [SWT articles](https://www.ferringconservationgroup.co.uk/tag/swt-articles/)