Richard Dunning writes with an update on the approaching critical situation at the Lochnagar Crater Memorial.
All those with a passionate interest in the Great War can only feel gratified at the ever-increasing numbers of visitors to the battlefield sites. And with the centenaries of 1914-18 looming this interest is predicted to rise dramatically.
I can only speak for Lochnagar when I say that the downside to all this is the spiralling level of damage from sheer wear and tear as up to a quarter of a million pairs of feet walk round the site each year.
Many visitors still seem unaware that Lochnagar is privately owned and receives no official contribution from any government or large organisation. Its preservation relies solely on the generous dedication of the Friends of Lochnagar and the donations and support of kind visitors. (The Historial at Peronne does provide regular gardening help for which I am most grateful.)
However, I am not allowed by law to raise money at the Crater without a trading licence - the same as a ‘frites' van and costing 4,000 euros!
Imminent refurbishment of the wreath laying area
The situation at Lochnagar has now become critical. The new Cross was erected in time for the 1 July ceremony but the area around the base where the wreaths are laid will, for the second time in six years need complete refurbishment costing several thousand pounds, depending on the level of support that might be offered. The problem is the steep slope which requires some form of steps or terracing and with it the real danger of someone tripping and injuring themselves.
It is always been a difficult balance at Lochnagar, preserving its unique atmosphere as a sacred resting place for many unfound young men, as well as honouring its tranquil, ‘unspoilt' nature - all this and providing access for so many people in a very limited space.
Recent frost damage due to severe winters and its exposed position have now been exacerbated by countless rabbit warrens which endanger the south-east slope of the crater. This too, is being urgently addressed.
Creating a formal path around the Crater
The actual entrance is mellowing nicely but constant traffic around the rim path has meant that it has literally worn away almost six inches of chalk in four years. The surface when wet is becoming more and more treacherous, despite putting in four sets of steps in the worst areas. Limiting access would be a great shame but the cost of installing a new and appropriately landscaped 300m rim path could cost an estimated £12,000.
Just to maintain the site and repair the damage will require an investment during 2011-2012 well in excess of £20,000 - the aim being to prepare it for the forthcoming period of intense and ever-growing interest.
This is in no way a complaint - witnessing the effect Lochnagar has on the thousands of young people and sympathetic visitors from around the world is a wonderfully gratifying experience. But, having shared some of the challenges of the coming critical period with you all, any thoughts and funding suggestions would be gratefully received. Thank you.
Richard Dunning Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
For more information please see the Lochnagar Crater web site www.lochnagarcrater.org.
To see more of the images of the severe erosion, please open the slideshow below. Please use the expand icon to view the slideshow in full screen, press "Esc" on your keyboard to return.
