I really do look forward to loads of things but the fact is that the older we become, the more we have to look back on. We return to people and places and it is impossible not to be conscious of the changes which have arisen over time. Sometimes though, places have changed very little and this is apparent if you visit Raby Mere, just 20 minutes from where I live. This is an area of 'Special Landscape Value' something which has been put in place to preserve the character and appearance. The mere's original purpose was to drive a watermill for grinding corn but it is now owned (leased?) by Port Sunlight Angling Club. The club was originally formed by employees of Levers (part of Leverhulme Estates) in 1947.
In the days when I was taken there with my family, you could row on the mere which was great fun. Other pleasures there were just as simple - going on the swings, buying ice cream and feeding the many ducks! It would seem that the only thing you can still do is feed the ducks. The house in the above photo is quite beautiful but not in the best condition. I do hope the plan isn't to leave it to fall into disrepair and then knock it down. Does anyone know???
I look at this vast expanse of water and think what a shame there doesn't appear to be any public access or boating on it now, even occasionally. So many children will never get the opportunity to have the fun as we had, especially when we got stuck in the trees! An added bonus today was that I met a lovely girl, who was feeding the ducks with her son. She clearly loves the Wirral too and has promised to send me a list of walks around the Raby area. Thank you!
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