This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Hampstead Heath Act, when the Heath was protected from development and commercialisation by an Act of Parliament. Just one year ago we formed a protective circle around the Ladies’ Pond and protested against the enforcement and inflation of charges to swim. After a year of further lockdowns, restricted access to the bathing ponds and more increases in the charges to swim, it is time to reclaim our space at our pond.
On 1 August 2021 the KLPA invites members to a picnic on the upper meadow between 10 am and midday, to make use of the capped free flow period at the pond. The upper meadow is now free to access by women and girls. An open air event, where there is plenty of space will allow us to gather safely at our pond. Please bring a picnic brunch, as we are not yet in a position to arrange a shared feast (we hope that will be possible before too long).
KLPA merchandise will be for sale including a new design of mug, featuring another of Sue Hellard’s cartoons depicting autumn at the pond. Mugs are £10 each or £35 for a seasonal set of four. Please bring correct money if possible, or pay by cheque.
We look forward to seeing many old friends and meeting newer KLPA members.
| “Just say no” does not work Open water swimmers are fighting back against attempts to blame them for recent drowning deaths. This article explains that water safety education is a more effective approach than prohibition. Outdoor Swimming Society founder Kate Rew urges a more realistic approach and adds, “What England and Wales need are inland beaches like those on the coast. We do not want to queue up and pay for a swim, we want to swim as people walk: at 5am, for three minutes, at midnight, for hours, before or after a picnic. Alone, with friends, with our families.“ (Scotland already has an aquatic right to roam). |