THE FLOODS OF 2007

Hurst was fortunate to escape the worst effects of the widespread floods, which hit Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire in July. However, our area did not go unscathed.

Dinton Pastures closed to the public

The park became inaccessible beyond the main car park when the Emmbrook burst its banks. The bird feeding area was turned into a waterfall as water from the Emmbrook cascaded into Black Swan Lake. The River Loddon flowed into White Swan Lake, causing the lake to overflow into the surrounding ditches and meadows.

In order to prevent the valuable course fish from escaping, nets were erected and members of the night fishing syndicate helped rangers to return the fish to the lake. The cattle used for conservation grazing were stranded on small areas of higher ground. Rangers used canoes to take bales of hay to them. They worked above and beyond the call of duty, staying throughout the night to watch over them.

Whistley Green

The ford at Whistley Green remained impassable for over two weeks. Horses at the nearby riding stable had to be moved to another field, as the gateway to the stables was under six feet of water. Islandstone Lane and Nelson Lane were both closed. The village itself was not as badly affected as in 2002.