Duke of Gloucester celebrates 50 Years as Epping Forest Ranger скачать в хорошем качестве

Duke of Gloucester celebrates 50 Years as Epping Forest Ranger

Scenes from His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester's ‘golden jubilee’ celebration as Ranger of Epping Forest - Friday 14 February 2025. The role of Ranger of Epping Forest was established under the Epping Forest Act of 1878, ensuring the continuation of the centuries-old Royal association with the Forest. Appointed by the Crown, the Ranger plays a key role, working alongside the City of London Corporation as Conservator, and the elected Verderers who present the views of local residents. Since its creation under the Epping Forest Act of 1878, only three individuals have held the position of Ranger: Upon arrival, His Royal Highness was presented with the key to Queen Elizabeth I’s Hunting Lodge before officially opening a new exhibition at the Epping Forest Visitor Centre at Chingford which explores the royal connections that have shaped the Forest through the centuries. The ‘Gloucester Ride’ path, named in honour of The Duke of Gloucester, will connect the Epping Forest Visitor Centre with Connaught Water, making the Forest more accessible for a range of users. And the first sculptures of a new Brambly Hedge trail, inspired by Jill Barklem’s illustrated children’s books, were also unveiled. Epping Forest’s connection with the Royal Family dates back to Henry II in the 12th century, but following the City of London Corporation's purchase of the land, it was Queen Victoria, who officially opened the Forest on 6 May 1882, declaring it would be 'for the use and enjoyment of my people for all time.' In 2017, Prince Harry dedicated Epping Forest as part of the Commonwealth Canopy, and in 2022, Queen Elizabeth II recognised it as one of just 70 ancient woodlands for her Platinum Jubilee. Most recently, in 2023, His Majesty King Charles III marked his Coronation by donating a tree to the Forest. The City of London Corporation manages a network of 11,000 acres of internationally important open space across London and southeast England, investing millions of pounds every year. Its largest site, Epping Forest, has been awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award for 22 consecutive years, recognising it as one of the very best managed green sites in the world. The Forest has also received Green Heritage Site Accreditation in recognition of its publicly accessible historic features, high standard of conservation, and for being one of the few remaining extensive ancient forests in western Europe.