The Monday Group - Rights of Way Volunteers

I'm sure there are many who wander along the public rights of way, footpaths and bridleways across East & West Sussex and South Downs National Park who see small green & yellow signs and wonder what they represent!

Those small signs show the work of the volunteer Monday Group who meet every week, fair weather or foul to ensure the public rights of way is Sunny Sussex are maintained and accessible for all who us them.

Harold Rowling MBE, founder of the Monday Group with a stile bearing his mark

- 93 is Harold's age! One of two stiles build as a result of a kind donation from South Bank Ramblers.

Harold founded the Monday Group in 1961 and is still the driving force behind the group in 2015. Stiles, directional signs and footbridges are all installed under Harold's engineers eye. During WW2 Harold served with the RAF and moved back to the area after the war with his wife Pam. In 1961 many rights of way were closed and overgrown as a result of the South Downs being used as a military training area during the war - it was Pam who spurred Harold to do something about it; things began with getting Westmeston Bostal reopened. A bridleway connecting Westmeston Village to Ditchling Beacon.

The work of the Monday Group continues thanks to the hard work of the many skilled volunteers and those who donate funds in order that materials may be purchased. One recent donation is from South Bank Ramblers who have funded five stiles, two near Novington Lane, Plumpton.

Harold and volunteer Kate with a stile designed by Harold and built by Jim Edwards from green oak.

All the stiles, signs and footbridges are built away from the point of installation and assembled in-situ. The group have a workshop behind St. George's Park in Ditchling where much work is carried out.

Jim Edwards with a freshly installed directional sign.

All the outdoor work is done without the aid of mechanical devices. Mainly as they are too heavy or cumbersome to carry to most locations.

To donate to the Monday Group or volunteer on a regular or even irregular basis contact them direct via their website http://www.mondaygroup.org/contact/ 

Donations may be sent direct to Harold:

Harold Rowling MBE

Home Brow House,
Underhill Lane,
Westmeston,
East Sussex,
BN6 8XG