Winnie the Pooh weekend success

MORE than 600 people took a rare opportunity at the weekend to visit the gardens bordering Ashdown Forest that inspired the Winnie-the-Pooh stories.

Cotchford Farm, near the village of Hartfield, is the former Sussex home of A.A. Milne, who wrote the world-famous children's stories.

The farm’s owners kindly opened their spectacular gardens to the public in support of Ashdown Forest. The Ashdown Forest Foundation, who raise money for the Forest, organised the volunteers, catering and facilities to create a special event.

Ashdown Forest CEO James Adler said: "It was an amazing weekend and I want to thank everyone who came along to support us.

"There were smiles on peoples’ faces as they walked in the footsteps of Christopher Robin and his famous bear. Everyone who visited was helping secure the long-term future of Ashdown Forest.

"Events like this help to raise funds as well as bringing enjoyment to so many Forest supporters and the wider community. It also gives us a wonderful opportunity to speak to people about their love of the Forest.”

"The owners have been incredibly generous in kindly allowing us to use their gardens for the weekend."

There were talks throughout the weekend from two expert speakers.

The morning sessions were led by Annemarie Bilclough, Curator of Illustration at the Victoria and Albert Museum, who wrote “Winnie-the-Pooh: Exploring a Classic”.

The afternoon speaker was Kathryn Aalto, author of “The Natural World of Winnie-the-Pooh” who lectures throughout Europe and North America on the Winnie-the-Pooh stories.

CEO James Adler spoke at the sessions about the Forest’s vital importance today and into the future in the fight against climate change, biodiversity loss whilst supporting public wellbeing.

He said: "The Winnie-the-Pooh stories, and therefore Cotchford Farm, hold a special place in so many peoples’ hearts.

"The gardens and the nearby Ashdown Forest embody the magic of the stories."

“Thank you to everyone who bought a ticket, generously donated, took part in the auction and raffle and who signed up to volunteer for the Forest. Do please get in touch if you would like to support Ashdown Forest.”