From: 146 Autumn 2017
Author: Howard Crapper
Perfect weather for inspecting the Meadow. A good group of Freemen awaited the arrival of the Sheriff. My first encounter was with Leslie Hathaway. A freemen of many years standing and when I say he is approaching his ninetieth birthday you will get my meaning. Leslie can still recall the occasion in 1934 when the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII), landed on Port Meadow and was met by the Duke of Marlbrough in order to open the then Wingfield Hospital. What a great story.
For some reason the Sheriff’s arrival was delayed by some twenty five minutes but with his two daughters, we immediately commenced with a walk through the Bathing Place picnic area. So pleased to have the Meadow Ranger with us. Julian Cooper was able to explain the day to day management of the Meadow but also how and where the WW1 Airfield Memorial would be set and how the interpretation boards would be seen.
The major change in the view of the Meadow was the absence of so many cattle. Around a hundred less head of cattle than usual. The reason apparently is entirely commercial. With the fluctuation in European currencies in recent months, graziers have seen the auction price of British Beef rise to such an extent that they have taken advantage of market conditions and sold their cattle early.
The meadow grass was in excellent condition and needs grazing. One advantage of this is that there has been a marked drop in some cattle crossing the river to perceived greener grass on the Binsey river bank. Just two incidents so far this year.
Julian Cooper announced that the river will be dredged. Agreed with Thames Water but the catch is that there is no starting date. It is often cited that the shallow river depth encourages the cattle to cross the river so dredging would be very welcome.
After agreeing that perhaps it is best to wear brown shoes when walking the meadow, we then agreed to repair to the Plough Inn for refreshment and the annual Aunt Sally match where the Sheriff puts a team up against the Freemen. Grateful thanks to Green King plc for supplying free beer. Delighted to report that the Freemen won the match and the Sheriff presented me with the Annual trophy. My personal thanks to Chris Cox for organising the smooth running of the exciting match which drew quite a crowd in super weather.