New support: Campaign to save beloved beauty spot intensifies

Dedicated young people from across Ripon are among the latest to join the campaign to restore our city's Fairy Steps.
Rotarians John McGettrick and David Stubley. Photo: Rotary Club of Ripon.Rotarians John McGettrick and David Stubley. Photo: Rotary Club of Ripon.
Rotarians John McGettrick and David Stubley. Photo: Rotary Club of Ripon.

The Ripon East Girlguides are planning a day of fairy-themed activities in June to raise money for the popular beauty spot and continue to raise the profile of the work needed to protect the steps.

April Martin said: "It is great that the girls are getting involved and doing something like this. We will be running ten different activities at the grassy area near the steps, all linked to a fairy theme. We will be making fairy buns, gathering stones from the river to make fairy wings, and the senior section members will be dressed as fairies.

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"Ever since I was a little girl I've walked along the Fairy Steps, and schools use it for cross country. For me it's the historical value of the steps that makes them special, their historical significance for Ripon."

With 200 guides and a 50p entry, the day will help to secure vital funds to go towards the restoration. Since featuring in the Gazette, the campaign to protect the deteriorating steps has continued to gain momentum and attract support from local groups across the city.

The Rotary Club of Ripon's Environment Committee has worked hard to maintain the steps over the years, and recently returned to clean them up and honour their pledge to support local causes.

Peter Race said: "A lot of people in Ripon use the steps, and they're special because of the links to the First World War. Ripon being as it is with its historical references, we are very happy as a club to do anything we can to support local causes like this.

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"It's a lovely setting, I have been walking along the Fairy Steps a few times. We will continue to work on the steps when needed and help clean them up."

Ripon City Councillor Stuart Martin is inviting anyone who knows anything about the history of the Fairy Steps to get in touch, to help prepare a fundraising bid for their restoration. Coun Martin is also looking into setting up a 'Friends of the Fairy Steps' group to explore ways of preserving them, in conjunction with Harrogate Borough Council's ranger and officers.

To express an interest in joining a 'Friends of' group, get involved in fundraising, or share what you know about the steps, call Stuart Martin on 07811 390448 or email: [email protected]

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