Wirral Heritage Open Days September 2016

Transcription

1 Wirral Heritage Open Days 3-11 September 2016

2 Wirral Heritage Open Days 2016 Welcome Heritage Open Days celebrate our outstanding architecture and culture by allowing free access to properties many of which are normally closed to the public or charge an admission fee. Throughout the country, thousands of historic buildings and sites will open their doors and local people will organise countless events and activities to promote their community s heritage. Information about Heritage Open Days regionally and nationally is available on Wirral s Heritage Open Days is Wirral s biggest heritage event and draws in several thousand visitors. It is organised by the volunteers of the Wirral History and Heritage Association in partnership with numerous voluntary groups and individuals. Wirral s nine day programme lasts from September Our heritage is second to none and Heritage Open Days give both visitors and residents the chance to explore and enjoy its wealth of history and architecture. and Heritage Association website: Downloadable copies of this programme are available on Whilst most events take place within Wirral Borough, we are delighted to publicise activities in south Wirral. For further information about Heritage Open Days in West Cheshire contact Chester History and Heritage on or chh@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this brochure, which has been supplied by individual events organisers. However, Wirral History and Heritage Association cannot be responsible for any discrepancies or last minute changes to the programme. Any updates will be shown on our website. As Wirral s Heritage Champion, I am delighted once again to welcome you to Wirral Heritage Open Days. The 2016 programme gives visitors the chance to explore a wide range of historic buildings and landscapes as well as providing an interesting series of tours, events and activities, organised by voluntary groups and individuals, and all aimed at giving both local residents and visitors alike a unique opportunity to discover more of Wirral s remarkable history and heritage. As always, I have been impressed by the energy, commitment and enthusiasm of those who have given their time to put the programme together and I have no hesitation in assuring visitors to Wirral Heritage Open Days that there will be something of interest for everyone. Many of Wirral s heritage attractions are open to the public throughout the year, so do please come back again and experience the wealth of heritage that Wirral has to offer. Councillor Jerry Williams, Wirral Heritage Champion Heritage Open Days is a national event to which Wirral is proud to contribute. Over the years visitor numbers have increased and our local open days now draw in people from well outside Wirral as well as from the peninsula itself. Admission to all events is free. This year s programme has been organised by the partnership of the Wirral History and Heritage Association and numerous dedicated people who open up buildings, put on displays and organise heritage walks and talks especially for the event. I should like to thank all those who have contributed to the programme and the many individuals who give of their time so freely to make Heritage Open Days a success. Do please use the nine days to see and do as much as you can. history... it belongs to us all! Elizabeth Davey, Chairman, Wirral History & Heritage Association

3 Events Calendar: Buildings Open to View LOCATION SITE NAME PAGE Sat 3rd Sun 4th Mon 5th Tue 6th Wed 7th Thu 8th Fri 9th Sat 10th Sun 11th HOUSE SITE NAME PAGE Sat 3rd Sun 4th Mon 5th Tue 6th Wed 7th Thu 8th Fri 9th Sat 10th Sun 11th Bebington St Andrew schurch 9 New Brighton St James Church 18 Bidston Bidston Lighthouse 9 New Brighton St Andrew s United 18 Bidston Bidston Windmill 10 New Brighton The Dome of Home 19 Bidston St Oswald s Church 10 Oxton Christ Church 19 Park Grand Entrance Priory & St Mary s Tower HMS Conway 11 Central Library Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Quaker Meeting House 13 High School Academy WW2 Shelters St James Church Parkgate St Thomas s Church 20 Port Sunlight Christ Church URC 21 Port Sunlight Port Sunlight Museum 20 Prenton Prenton United Reformed Church Rock Ferry St Anne s RC Church 21 Thornton Hough 21 St George s 22 Thurstaston Shore Cottage 22 Wallasey Holy Apostles & Martyrs Church Wallasey Rake Lane Chapel Wirral Transport Museum 15 Wallasey St Hilary s Church 23 Wilfred Owen Story 13 Bromborough Pool Bromborough Pool Buildings 15 Wallasey St Mary s Church, Liscard 17 Wallasey Wallasey Town Hall 23 Bromborough St Barnabas Church 15 Wallasey Wallaseyans Club 24 Eastham St Mary s Church 16 West Kirby St Bridget s Church 25 Leasowe Leasowe Castle 16 West Kirby West Kirby Methodist Church 24 Leasowe Leasowe Lighthouse 17 West Kirby West Kirby Museum 24 Neston St Mary & St Helen Church 18 Woodchurch Holy Cross

4 Events Calendar: Walks, Talks and Activities LOCATION SITE NAME PAGE Sat 3rd Sun 4th Mon 5th Tue 6th Wed 7th Thu 8th Fri 9th Sat 10th Sun 11th LOCATION SITE NAME PAGE Sat 3rd Sun 4th Mon 5th Tue 6th Wed 7th Thu 8th Fri 9th Sat 10th Sun 11th Bidston Bidston Community Archaeology 27 Hooton 610 (County of Chester)Squadron 31 Bidston Bidston Hill Walk 27 Hooton Hooton Park Tour 31 Bidston Flaybrick Past, Present and Future 27 Little Neston Little Neston Colliery Walk 32 Bidston Flaybrick Maintenance & Partnership 28 Ness Ness Botanic Gardens 32 Bidston Flaybrick Friends Walk 28 Neston Neston Town Trail 32 Bidston Flaybrick What Happens Next 28 New Brighton All Around the Vale 32 American Civil War Tour 28 New Ferry New Ferry Butterfly Park Walk 33 Park Friends Heritage Walk 29 New Ferry New Ferry Historic Walk 33 Park Ranger s Walk 29 Oxton Oxton Guided History Walk 33 Wilfred Owen Trail 29 Port Sunlight Open Village Walk 34 Williamson Art Gallery Tour 30 Port Sunlight River Park Walk 34 Wirral Archives 29 Rock Park Rock Park Walk 34 Bromborough Pool Bromborough Pool Buildings Walk 30 Wallasey Rake Lane Cemetery Walk 35 Burton RSPB Burton Mere Wetlands 30 West Kirby Ashton Park Walk 35 Eastham Eastham Ferry and Country Park Walk 31 West Kirby Old Village Walk

5 Buildings Open to View Though somewhat overshadowed by its neighbours, Liverpool and Chester, the Borough of Wirral can nevertheless boast that it has a wealth of historic buildings. There are 9 Scheduled Monuments, one of which, Priory is included in Heritage Open Days. We have almost 2,000 Listed Buildings, the most outstanding of which have been awarded Grade I or Grade II* listed status. A selection of these, as well as sites in south Wirral, will be open to view during Heritage Open Days. Bebington St Andrew s Church Church Road, Bebington, CH63 3EX Tues 6 Sep, 10am to 3.30pm Guided tours: 10.30am, 12.30pm & 2.30pm The church is a Grade I Listed Building, with parts of the structure dating from the Norman period. The architectural historian, Raymond Richards, considered it to be the finest church in Wirral. It is an active Anglican parish church, with historical records dating from There is disabled access to the church but no wheelchair access to toilets. Light refreshments available. Bidston Bidston Lighthouse Wilding Way, Bidston, CH43 7RA Sat 3, Mon 5, Tue 6 & Sat 10 Sep Doors open 12.45pm to 4pm Guided tours: 1pm, 2pm, 3pm The world s most inland lighthouse was established at the Bidston signals station in 1771, starting a revolution in lighthouse optics. The site later became a station in the Liverpool-Holyhead telegraph. Rebuilt in 1873 by George F. Lyster, the new building combined the telegraph (now electric) and lighthouse functions. For further information see: Soft drinks and snacks available for purchase. Souvenirs & second-hand books for sale. Fantastic views from lamp room. Height restriction applies (minimum 106 cms /42 ins). Limited parking available. If coming by car the only access is via Wilding Way. Pre-booking required. Book online at Mrs Karen Davies office@standrewsbebington.org.uk Amanda: The lighthouse is open to the public on selected weekends during the warmer months. Admission to ground floor and bookshop free. Guided tours to signals and lamp rooms 2.50 (adult), 1 (child). Private tours by arrangement. Further information about the Lighthouse, its history and opening times can be found at: 9

6 St Oswald s Church Bidston Village Road, Bidston, CH43 7QT Thu 8 Sep 10am to 4pm St. Oswald s Church has been part of a tradition of worship on this site that stretches back at least to the eighth century. The existing church was rebuilt in 1856 and the Tower dates from There are numerous beautiful stained glass windows within the church some of which attract great attention from specialists. One was crafted by Morris to a Burne-Jones design. Light refreshments available. Disabled access to the church. Ron Iveson roniveson@hotmail.com Facebook: stoswaldschurchbidston Bidston Windmill Access via footpath from Tam O Shanter Farm Car Park, CH43 7PD Sat 3 Sep, 10am to 12 noon, last entry 11.45am A brick built tower mill, erected to replace a wooden peg mill, destroyed by fire in Used to grind corn until Restored by Wirral Borough Council. Height restriction applies for upper floors (minimum 110cms). Children under 11 years must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Dogs can be minded. No pre-booking required. First come first served. Disabled access to ground floor only. Upper floors only accessible via steep ladders. The windmill is approached over uneven ground not suitable for wheelchairs. Refreshments available at Tam O Shanter Farm Café. info@bidstonhill.org.uk The windmill is open to the public from 10am until 12 noon on the first Saturday of each month from April to September, but closed during the colder months when bats resume their winter residence. Admission free. Donations to the Friends of Bidston Hill welcome. For more information, see: High School Academy WW2 Shelters 86 Devonshire Place,, CH43 1TY Sat 10 & Sun 11 Sep, 9am to 2pm Newly renovated WW2 Air Raid Shelters, built in 1940 from funds raised by staff and families, so that pupils could return safely to, following their evacuation. Sound system brings the shelters to life. Information sheets, interpretation boards and photographs add to the experience. Activity sheets available. Pre booking required. No disabled access. Steep steps and low ceiling. Films and photographs can be viewed in fully accessible conference facilities. Open to the public by appointment throughout the year. Emma Owen e.owen@birkhs.gst.net Facebook: BHSA Shelters Grand Entrance, Park Park Drive,, CH41 4HD Sat 3 & Sun 4 Sep, 10am to 3pm Sat 10 & Sun 11 Sep 1pm to 3pm The impressive Grand Entrance, with its North and South Lodges, dated 1847, was designed by local architect, Lewis Hornblower, who, together with John Robinson, also designed the Park s boathouse and bridges. No disabled access, steps lead up to the front door. Inside there are 2 ground floor rooms and steep stairs to the upper floors. Limited space, so unsuitable for pushchairs or large back packs admin@fbp.org.uk Conway Chapel, Scriptorium, Priory Priory Street,, CH41 5JH Sat 3 & Sun 4 Sep & Wed 7 to Sun 11 Sep, 12 noon to 5pm The museum is dedicated to the memory of HMS Conway, a training ship anchored off Rock Ferry from 1859 to 1941, before moving to the Menai Straits. Many Conway artefacts, painted and stained glass. Parking available in the Priory car park. Accessible via walking chair up external staircase. David Holbert or davidandsue09@talktalk.net

7 Central Library Borough Road,, CH41 2XB Mon 5 Sep Talk and tour at 2.15pm, meet in the foyer Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church Cavendish Street,, CH41 8AQ Sat 3 Sep 11am to 4pm Sat 10 Sep 11am to 4pm This Grade II listed church, designed by EW Pugin in 1857, was completed by Pugin & Pugin in After bomb damage in 1941, it was sympathetically restored with all original features remaining. Photographs of Holy Cross RC Church, designed by FX Velarde will be on display. The Wilfred Owen Story 34 Argyle Street,, CH41 6AE Tue to Sat 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10 Sep, 11am to 2pm The Wilfred Owen Story and Gallery is the first permanent exhibition to commemorate Wilfred Owen, one of the most celebrated war poets of all time. He spent his formative years in. The gallery follows his life and honours the genius of the town s famous adopted son. There will be different activities throughout the week, including poetry readings. Quaker Meeting House 83 Park Road South,, CH43 4UU Fri 9 Sep 10.30am to 4pm Sat 10 Sep 10.30am to 4pm No pre-booking required. Disabled access through side entrance to church. No booking required except for groups (8 to 15 max). Disabled access to the exhibition, but no disabled toilets. Central Library, opened by George V in 1934, replaced the 1909 Carnegie Library in Market Street South, demolished to make way for the tunnel approach. Its architects, Gray, Evans & Crossley, created a Neo-Georgian palace with an imposing pillared portico and balcony. Inside are Carrara marble and English oak details, Della Robbia plaques and the Wilfred Owen memorial window. There will be a behind the scenes tour. the Parish Priest, Church Office ol.hc.sp@btinternet.com Church open to the public during Mass times daily and on Sundays. No charge info@wilfredowenstory.com For normal opening times see website Victorian Quaker Meeting House in red brick. Wood panelled meeting room with original central heating controls (not functioning). Victorian WCs. Small garden. Limited disabled access. Tour unsuitable for those with mobility issues. Disabled access to ground floor (ask for Reference Library) sheenagaskell@wirral.gov.uk Mary Green cox.green@btinternet

8 St James Church St James Road/Laird Street,, CH41 7AL Sat 10 Sep 11am to 3pm Sun 11 Sep 10am for reunion service St James Church is a Grade II listed building designed by C. E Lang in the centre of s North End and established to serve the Dock Cottages. Building began in 1845, but was not completed until Since then the church has been a pillar of the community, both physically and spiritually. Open day for all the family. Collections of old photos of the area, not usually seen will be on display, along with stories and memories of the church and life around it. There will be music and craft activities for children. Small guided tours, to help people appreciate the heritage of the church and its location. Eve Barrett eve.barrett@corganisers.org.uk Priory and St Mary s Tower Priory Street,, CH41 5JH Wed to Fri 1pm to 5pm Sat & Sun 10am to 5pm Priory is the oldest standing building on Merseyside and an Ancient Monument. Founded in the mid 12th century as a Benedictine monastery, it was granted the right to ferry travellers across the Mersey in the 14th century. It was dissolved by Henry VIII and the Priory Church demolished. Adjacent is the tower of St Mary s, s first parish church, consecrated in 1821 and now dedicated as a memorial to those who died in the submarine Thetis disaster. The former Chapter House is consecrated as a place of worship. The Scriptorium is the home of the Friends of HMS Conway. Partial accessibility. Refreshments available for purchase. Site Enquiries Wirral Transport Museum 1 Taylor Street,, CH41 1BG Sat 3, Sun 4, Sat 10 & Sun 11 Sep, 1pm to 4.30pm One of the most comprehensive working transport museums in the country. Collection includes trams, buses, motorcycles and cycles, many in working order. 1930s garage scene. The large model railway layout is a draw for visitors of all ages. Admission free. Half hourly tram rides, 2 adults/ 1 children & concessions. Museum open weekends and Bank Holidays 1pm to 4.30pm throughout year. Closed Christmas and New Year Limited disabled access. No disabled toilets. Refreshments available at nearby Woodside. Tony Cooper tony-coop@hotmail.com Bromborough St Barnabas Church Church Square, Bromborough, CH62 2AA Tue 6 Sep 11am to 2pm Sun 11 Sep 12 noon to 4pm St Barnabas is a Grade II Listed Building, built , to a design of Sir George Gilbert Scott. Outside are three fragments of Anglo-Norse sculptured stones, reassembled to form a cross. The churchyard contains an 18th century sundial and a war memorial. There will be short tours of the church and its immediate environs. No pre-booking required. Disabled access. Parish Office ros.wood@stbarnabasbromborough.org. uk Bromborough Pool Bromborough Pool School, St Matthew s Church and Giles Shirley Hall York Street, Bromborough Pool, CH62 4TZ Meet outside School Sat 10 Sep, Visits start at 10am, 11am, 12 noon & 1pm No booking required if group less than 10 people. Refreshments available at Garden Centre - for lunches, order in advance on Anne Litherland anne.litherland@autismtogether.co.uk bromborough-pool

9 Eastham St Mary s Parish Church Stanley Lane, Eastham, CH62 0AQ Fri 9 & Sat 10, 10am to 4pm Sun 11 Sep, 12 noon to 4pm Grade II listed church in the centre of Eastham village. There has been a church in Eastham since 852 AD. The current building is medieval, built about Find out more about its story; the key conflicts it has seen; learn about the everyday life of today s church; discover the stories behind the memorial plaques on the walls. Daily guided tours of the graveyard at 2pm, Amorini Antiques valuations Organ, voice and trumpet recital Sunday 11 Sep, 3pm to 4pm Tea and coffee in church every day and on Saturday light refreshments provided by the Scouts, opposite the church. Disabled access to church but not to graveyard. Sue Abraham s.r.abraham@btinternet.com St Mary s Church is open every Wednesday & Thursday, 2pm to 4pm from mid May to early September. Leasowe Leasowe Castle Leasowe Road, Moreton, Wirral, CH46 3RF Mon 5, Tue 6, Wed 7, Thu 8 Sep, 10am Morning Tours Built by the Earls of Derby in the late 16th century, Grade II* Leasowe Castle has been altered and enlarged over the centuries, serving among other things as a sporting lodge, a castellated mansion, an hotel, a nobleman s residence and a railwayman s convalescent home. Today it is once again an hotel. Find out about the castle s history, explore its exterior, glimpse some of its historic rooms. Leasowe Lighthouse Lingham Lane, Moreton, CH46 4TA (Nearest station Moreton) Sun 4 Sep 1pm 5pm Oldest brick lighthouse in Britain. Built 1763 by Liverpool Docks Committee. In use until One of four lights erected on Wirral s north coast, two at Hoylake and one, a lower light, at Leasowe. Lower Light destroyed by the sea and replaced, 1771, by a lighthouse on Bidston Hill, itself rebuilt, Managed by volunteers. Grade II listed. Entry to ground floor display area and gift shop free. Charges apply for guided tours to upper floors - 2 adults, 1 children, who must be at least 1.06 metres to take the tour. No pre-booking required. Disabled access to ground floor. Refreshments and souvenirs available for purchase. Rose Campion (Leave message if no answer) info@leasowelighthouse.co.uk The Lighthouse is open for guided tours, 1pm 5pm, on the FIRST and THIRD Sunday of each month. Liscard St Mary s Church Withins Lane, Liscard, Wallasey, CH45 7LU Sat 10 & Sun 11 Sep, 12 noon to 4pm Built in 1876 by E.W.Nobbs, the Church is a fine example of mid-victorian architecture with perpendicular tracery and west tower. Broad interior without aisles, good arts and crafts and stained glass windows in Whall style. Ring of 8 bells in use. Church registers dating from 1925 will be available for inspection for the last time before being deposited in Cheshire Archives. No booking required Refreshments available David Harvey davidharvey2@hotmail.com Pre Booking required. Limited disabled access. Refreshments available for purchase. Linda Cook lindacook@leasowecastle.com

10 Neston St Mary and St Helen Parish Church High Street, Neston, CH64 9TZ Thu 8, Fri 9, Sat 10 Sep, 10am to 3.30pm Sun 11 Sep 12 noon to 3.30pm The church has many attractions, including stained glass windows by Kempe, Hardman, Norris and Burne-Jones. The Falklands Chapel was rescued from HMS Plymouth. The font was used for the christening of Lady Hamilton and there is a display of rare Viking Stones. Guides will be available to show visitors around during opening times. Art and Craft exhibition by parishioners and a unique display of church vestments. Pre-booking required for tours. Refreshments available for pre-booked tours. Peter Rossiter peter@rossiterjan.freeserve.co.uk New Brighton St Andrew s United Church Rowson Street, New Brighton, CH45 5AR Sun 11 Sep, 2pm to 4.30pm The building was built in a Greek Cross shape and the roof is interesting. There are lots of war memorials as well as relics from 5 other churches in Wallasey. Guided tours can be arranged. Light refreshments available. Peter Purland petepurland@btopenworld.com St James Church Albion Street, New Brighton, Wallasey, Wirral, CH45 9LF Sat 3 Sep, 10am to 4pm Sat 10 Sep, 9am to 11am A mid Victorian gothic revival building, designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott, currently undergoing major restoration works. As part of these works, the spire, the tallest in Wirral, has recently been rebuilt (completed in April). On Saturday 3 September we hope to have our beautiful 1833 Bewsher and Fleetwood organ available for willing and capable volunteers to play. People should bring their own music. The building will also be open on other days as it now houses the New Brighton Heritage Centre. Coffee will be available both Saturdays. Ss Peter, Paul & Philomena Church / ICKSP 7 Atherton Street, New Brighton, CH45 9LT Sun 4 Sep, Church open all day 10.30am Sung Mass with Gregorian Chant 3pm to 5pm Guided Heritage Tours, with cream tea refreshments 4pm Mayor of Wirral 5.30pm Sunday Vespers with Benediction Church open daily throughout the week, 8am to 8pm Sat 10 Sep 11am to 1pm Guided Heritage Tour/Refreshments Sun 11 Sep 4pm to 5pm Guided Heritage Tour/Refreshments 5.30pm Sunday Vespers with Benediction Welcome to the Dome of Home, architecturally ambitious, little altered Catholic Church of 1935; monumental in scale, baroque in its spatial conception, its dome can be seen from afar. Established as a Shrine Church in This well loved landmark has undergone two HLF restoration projects. Pre booking required, outside scheduled tours times. Light refreshments. Oxton Christ Church, Oxton Bessborough Road, Oxton, CH43 5RW Sun 11 Sep, 1pm 5pm Grade 2 listed Anglican Church, housing a splendid Father Willis organ. It has two First World War memorials, one wall mounted and the other an elaborately carved pulpit. Wilfred Owen and his family attended here whilst living in. History displays. Free Organ recital in afternoon. Refreshments. Rev Karen Freeman (church office) Churchwarden, Mr J.Timms john.timms@grahamwoolnough.com contactus@domeofhome.org

11 Parkgate St Thomas Church Mostyn Square, Parkgate, Neston, CH64 6SL Sat 10 Sep, 2pm to 5pm Sun 11 Sep, 2pm to 5pm This early Victorian church, originally built as a Port Sunlight Port Sunlight Museum 23 King George s Drive, Port Sunlight, CH62 5DX Sat 3 Sep, 10am to 5pm Visit Port Sunlight Museum to explore the story of Port Sunlight, the vision of its founder for his soap workers, and the work to protect this garden village for future generations to study and enjoy. New for 2016 Port Sunlight in Focus , a special photography exhibition. Free entry to the museum, Saturday 3 September 10am to 5pm. Booking not required Port Sunlight Museum has its own Tea Room, serving hot and cold drinks, handbaked cakes and light lunches. Port Sunlight Museum is open daily, throughout the year, see website for times and admission charges Christ Church United Reformed Church Church Drive, Port Sunlight Village, CH62 5EF Mon 5 to Fri 9 Sep, 11am to 4pm Built by William Lever, 1st Viscount Leverhulme, as a church in whose worship all Christian people, except those of extreme views, could share. English Gothic Style from Helsby red sandstone. The interior has an open and lofty spaciousness, the red walls contrasting with the marble pavement, oak pews and screens. Booking not required. Arnold Waters aw@bahico.com Christ Church is open on weekdays during the summer months Rock Ferry St Anne s R C Church, Rock Ferry Highfield Road, Rock Ferry, CH42 2BY Sat 10 Sep, 1pm to 3.30pm Designed by E. W. Pugin in Early Decorated style, completed, after his death, by the Pugin practice, Built of Storeton stone with Welsh Pierrepoint of a bluish hue. Outstanding Rose Window and other devotional features. Main entrance at front. Car park at rear (access from Ruskin Avenue). There is a ramp. 100 yards from Rock Ferry Station. No pre-booking required. Tea/coffee, biscuits and cakes available. Parish Secretary (mornings only) st.annes@hotmail.co.uk chapel, was closed for 16 years but reopened in 2010, after refurbishment. Local community projects, in support of The Bishop s Trust raised the funds for the renovation and the Fisherman s Church, as it is known locally, is a testament to their sterling efforts. Financial assistance was also given by English Heritage. Photographs and documents relating to the history of Parkgate will be on display. Members of the church will be available to welcome visitors and talk about the building. Refreshments available at cafes nearby. stthomasparkgate@hotmail.com Port Sunlight Museum info@portsunlightvillage.com Prenton Prenton United Reformed Church 1 Prenton Road West, Prenton, CH42 9PX (By traffic lights at junction of Prenton Road West and Storeton Road.) Wed 7 Sep, 9am to 12 noon The original congregation met first in the Prenton Bowling Pavillion in It then moved into the chapel, now the Hall, opened, Foundation Stone of church laid by Mrs W.H. Lever, (Near stone is a place of quiet remembrance). Amalgamated with St Paul s Presbyterian Church, A brass plaque commemorates members of the congregation killed in WW1. Mrs Marian Davies marian.davies154@btinternet.com

12 Thornton Hough St George s United Reformed Church St George s Way, Thornton Hough, CH63 1JA Sat 3 & Sun 4 Sep, Sat 10 & Sun 11 Sep, 10am to 4pm St George s was built at the start of the twentieth century when the first Lord Leverhulme commissioned architect Lomax Simpson to build a church in the Norman style. A grade II* listed building, the church has outstanding Romanesque-style carvings and impressive stained glass windows and of course there is a carving of St George and the Dragon! stgeorgesurcth@gmail.com The church can be opened to groups by prior arrangement Thurstaston Shore Cottage Thurstaston Beach (Off) Station Road, Thurstaston, CH61 0HN Sat 10 Sep, 1pm to 4pm See at close hand the exterior of Shore Cottage, once known as Sally s Cottage, built on its small quay on Thurstaston shore. Visit the working artists studio next door, with its unrivalled views across the Dee estuary to North Wales. Examine images and documents linked to the history of the site. Bring along any photographs you may have to be scanned for our collection. Record your own stories. A unique part of Wirral s past. No disabled access 71 steps down to beach. Refreshments available for purchase. studio@shorecottagestudio.com Wallasey Holy Apostles and Martyrs Parish Church St George s Road, Wallasey, CH45 6TU Sat 10 Sep 10.30am to 7pm Sun 11 Sep 9am to 5pm The church was designed by the architect F X Velarde during the mid-20th century. Today it is the parish church of the vibrant Catholic parish community of Holy Apostles & Martyrs in the Diocese of Shrewsbury. Around the outside you will see sculptures of the English Martyrs and inside, Velarde s exquisite design. Disabled access and facilities. Fr Michael Coughlan ham.parish@gmail.com The Chapel, Rake Lane Cemetery Rake Lane, Wallasey, CH45 5DE Wed 7 & Sun 11 Sep, 2pm to 4pm The Chapel was originally opened in 1882 and, in recent years fell into disrepair. In 2009 it became the church of St Elisabeth the New Martyr. It has been beautifully renovated and is now a Russian Orthodox Church. It is available for interdenominational burials and is also licensed for weddings. There will be guided walks around the cemetery - see Walks Section John & Diane Robinson Jonandi1@btinternet.com St Hilary s Church Claremont Road, Wallasey, CH45 3NH Sat 3 Sep, 10am to 4pm, Sun 4 Sep, 2pm to 4pm Supervised visits to the Bell Tower of the main church will be conducted on the hour whilst the church is open There has been Christian worship on the site of St Hilary s for over 1000 years. The present church, built 1859 replaced a church burned down in It contains a Willis organ and the recently restored west window. Visit the Tudor tower of the earlier church and view the original Norman font. Refreshments available in the main church on both days. Bacon rolls on sale in the Old Tower 12 noon to 2pm, Sat only. Disabled access except to Bell Tower Wallasey Town Hall Brighton Street, Wallasey, CH44 8ED Wed 7 Sep, 2pm to 4pm Monumental listed building, designed for the Borough of Wallasey by Briggs, Wolstenholme & Thornley. Foundation stone laid by George V in Served as a Military Hospital during WWI. Officially opened as Town Hall, Now main centre for Wirral Borough Council. Tour includes Mayor s Parlour, Council Chamber, Reception Room & Civic Hall. Meet in Town Hall reception area by 1.55pm. Afternoon includes tea with the Mayor in his Parlour and a talk on history of the building by the Wallasey Historical Society Pre booking required. Disabled access Refreshments provided by the Mayor. Chris Morris

13 The Wallaseyans Club 140/142 Grove Road, Wallasey, CH45 0JF Sat 3 Sep, 2pm to 5pm Originally owned by the Billington family and, later a private school, the buildings housed service personnel during the Second World War and are now The Wallaseyans Club. The Wallasey Grammar School Archives are stored here and will be on display during the event which will also include tours of the building. Disabled access (ramp at side of building) Parking behind building. Honorary Secretary wallaseyansmail@gmail.com West Kirby West Kirby Methodist Church 29a Westbourne Road, West Kirby, CH48 4DQ Fri 9, & Sat 10 Sep, 10am to 4pm Opened in 1904, the church has stained glass of unusual quality. These windows are complemented by a Willis organ and a chancel refurbished in Art Deco style in the 1930s by the Bibby family. Other famous local people (e.g. Selwyn Lloyd s family and Cyril Gourley) are commemorated in the church. Displays and leaflet available to guide visitors. Children s activities. Graham Gladden gladdengp@talktalk.net West Kirby Museum St Bridget s Centre, St Bridget s Lane, West Kirby, Wirral, CH48 3JT Sat 3 & 10 Sep, 10am to 4pm Begun in 1892, restored and refurbished in 2013, the Museum tells the history of West Kirby, its Church, School and village. Exhibits and explanatory panels enhance the story, as well as temporary displays concentrating on certain relevant themes. Enthusiastic volunteers will ensure you have an interesting visit. St Bridget s Church St Bridget s Lane, West Kirby, CH48 3JT Sat 3 & Sat 10 Sep, 10am to 4pm An Anglican church with a history of worship dating back 1000 years. Substantially rebuilt but some medieval masonry survives, particularly in chancel. Home to a rare Norse Hogback stone. Stained glass windows, painting over the chancel arch and iron chancel screen all by C.E.Kempe No pre-booking required. Refreshments in church centre. 10 minutes walk from West Kirby station. Malcolm Taylor Malcolm.j.taylor@hotmail.co.uk Woodchurch Holy Cross Church Church Lane, Woodchurch, CH49 7LS Sat 3 Sep. 12 noon to 3pm, Fri 9 Sep, 11am to 3pm Sat 10 Sep, 10am to 4pm Sun 11 Sep, 3pm to 5pm (ending with Songs of Praise) Grade II* listed building, C12th nave; C14th south aisle, chancel and tower, all much altered; a C16th porch and a C20th north aisle. Items of interest are wood carvings, 1741 charity board, Kempe window, part of pre-norman wheel cross. Peal of eight bells, possibly one of the lightest in Britain. Self guided leaflets & Church Tours available. Lots of activities - see website for details Saturday 10 September : Have a go at ringing bells - Booking Required. Climb to the top of the tower for views - Booking Required. Bring your Teddy and watch it parachute down the tower. Registration required on day. Children s activities. Light a candle for a loved one. Restrictions for Tower visits / Bell Ringing - No children under 8. All children under 16 to be accompanied by an adult. The tower is reached via 100+ steep steps. Unsuitable for those with mobility problems, pregnant or with health issue, which make it unsafe to climb steep steps. NO dogs allowed in tower. Booking essential. Disabled access to church but not tower. Carol Hunter Parish Office (mornings Mon to Thurs only) holycrosswoodchurch@gmail.com For details of opening at other times see wix.com/holy-cross

14 Walks, Talks and Activities The Wirral peninsula embraces a wealth of man-made landscapes of both historical interest and beauty. Within the Borough of Wirral alone there are 26 Conservation Areas, including Port Sunlight and Hamilton Square, both deemed of national importance. In addition, the borough has several landscapes listed on the National Register of Historic Parks and Gardens. These include Park, Flaybrick Memorial Gardens and Port Sunlight which all feature in our Heritage Open Days programme. Bidston Bidston Community Archaeology Tam O Shanter Urban Farm Boundary Road, Bidston, CH43 7PD Excavation site 50 metres from Tam O Shanter Farm Sat 3 Sep, 11am to 3.30pm Sun 11 Sep, 11am to 3.30pm Excavation of Pig Field Site, Tam O Shanter Urban Farm, Bidston. Aim to investigate evidence of earliest date of occupancy. The earliest dating evidence recovered so far is in the form of pottery shards dating to the 17th century. There is also potential prehistoric use indicated by pieces of worked flint. We are happy to escort visitors around the site. The surface is uneven and at times slippery. Visitors must wear appropriate footwear. Booking not required. Uneven ground, unsuitable for wheelchairs. Refreshments available at Tam O Shanter Farm cafe. bidston-communityarchaeology@hotmail.co.uk Bidston Hill Walk Meet at Tam O Shanter Farm, Boundary Road, CH43 7PD Tue 6 Sep, 11am to 1pm Walk explores King George s Way, Thermopolyae Pass, the original site of Bidston Court (later moved to Royden Park), Bidston Windmill, Observatory and Lighthouse, taking in some of the Rock Carvings before returning to the Farm. Not suitable for people with limited mobility bsinton01@hotmail.com Flaybrick, Past, Present and Future Flaybrick Memorial Gardens, Tollemache Road, Bidston. Meet at Tam O Shanter Urban Farm, CH43 7PD Wed 7 Sep starts at 2pm, Flaybrick, is one of Britain s most important Victorian cemeteries, listed Grade II*, designed by Edward Kemp and preserving all the key features of his original lay-out and planting. The unusual linked chapels (Anglican and Non - Conformist), designed by Liverpool architects Lucy and Littler, have been disused and derelict for many years. Recently, Wirral Council and Historic England have made significant investment in stabilizing the historic fabric of the chapels. This walk, led by Wirral s Heritage Officer, Eileen Willshaw, will describe these works and explore opportunities for the future development of the whole site. There is excavation work on the site, weather permitting, Saturdays and Sundays from May to mid-september. At these times access to the site is subject to prior arrangement. Pre-booking not required. Refreshments available at the Farm. Eileen Willshaw

15 Flaybrick, Maintenance and Partnerships Flaybrick Memorial Gardens, Tollemache Road, Bidston Meet at Tam O Shanter Urban Farm, CH43 7PD Thu 8 Sep 2pm Flaybrick Cemetery (now Memorial Gardens) is a superb heritage asset for Wirral. There are thousands of memorials, 7 Listed Buildings and over 100 species of trees and shrubs. But managing this vulnerable site, which is on the National Heritage at Risk Register, is a massive undertaking. Luke Agnew, Sexton of Flaybrick, will describe the key issues involved, including maintenance planning, tackling anti-social behaviour and how partnerships and community involvement will be vital in safeguarding the future of this outstanding Cemetery. Booking not required. Refreshments available at the Farm Luke Agnew Flaybrick Memorial Gardens Walk Flaybrick Memorial Gardens, Tollemache Road, Bidston Meet at Tam O Shanter Urban Farm, Boundary Road, Bidston, CH43 7PD Sat 10 Sep, 11am A guided walk round the Gardens, taking approximately two hours, led by the Friends of the Memorial Gardens. Disabled access, but note that paths are uneven in parts. Stout footwear needed, also possibly rainwear. Booking not required. Refreshments available at Tam O Shanter Farm Flaybrick- What Happens Next? Flaybrick Memorial Gardens, Tollemache Road, Bidston Meet at Tam O Shanter Urban Farm, CH43 7PD Sat 10 Sep 2pm Led by Eileen Willshaw, Wirral s Heritage Officer and Luke Agnew, Sexton for Flaybrick Memorial Gardens, this walk will explore the national and international significance of the Cemetery; recent conservation works, and the issues confronting the future of one of Wirral s most important heritage sites. After the walk, there will be an opportunity for everyone to express their views about the future development of the Cemetery, in an informal conversation session. Pre-booking not required Refreshments available at the Farm. Eileen Willshaw American Civil War Tour Meet at the gates of Priory, Priory Street,, CH41 5JH Sat 10 Sep 2pm This guided walk explores the sites and amazing stories of the local impact of the American Civil War ( ), when a Le Carre style espionage battle of epic proportions took place on the streets of and Liverpool. This would have international repercussions. The tour takes about 1.5 hours and includes climbing to the top of St. Mary s Church tower. Pre-booking essential. No disabled access to tower. Jerry Williams Wirral Archives Cheshire Lines Building, Canning Street,, CH41 1ND Meet in the Lower Ground Floor Conference Room Thu 8 Sep, 2pm & 3pm Two talks about Wirral Archives Service, with an opportunity to see behind the scenes, including the Strong Room, where the historical records of Wirral are protected and preserved. Booking essential. William Meredith, Archivist, Wirral Archives Service archives@wirral.gov.uk Wirral Archives is open for family history, local history and Cammell Laird research, Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4.30pm. We do not close for lunch. Please contact us in advance to make an appointment. Park Heritage Walk Park Drive, Park, CH41 4HY Start and finish at Park Visitor Centre, Park Drive Tue 6 Sep 11am Walk of approximately 1 mile lasts around 1½ hours led by the Friends of Park. Gentle walk round Lower Park passing key sites Grand Entrance, Jackson monument, Swiss Bridge, Boathouse etc. Suitable for wheelchair users. Refreshments available in the Visitor Centre. Booking required admin@fbp.org.uk Park Ranger s Walk Park Visitor Centre, Park Drive,, CH41 4HY Thu 8 Sep, Fri 9 Sep, Sat 10 Sep, Sun 11 Sep. 1pm to 3pm Start and finish at Visitor Centre. Walk takes about 1.5 to 2hrs. A heritage walk round the world s first publically funded park. No pre-booking required. All pathways tarmacked. Swiss Bridge and Roman Boathouse have steep steps so are not wheelchair accessible. Refreshments available for purchase in Café. Park Visitor Service Team birkenheadpark@wirral.gov.uk Wilfred Owen Trail Central Reference Library, Borough Road,, CH41 2XB Fri 9 Sep, 10.15am Walk takes approximately two hours. Meet at Central Reference Library, Wilfred Owen First World Poet who attended the Institute. Follow the trail with a short walk around his childhood homes near the Central Library. Free trail map and notes provided. Booking required. The walk is on public footpaths. Necessary outdoor wear recommended. Rob Wood rewoodassociates@btinternet.com Copies of the trail brochure available free of charge from Central Reference Library

16 Williamson Art Gallery & Museum Slatey Road,, Wirral, CH43 4UE Wed 7 & Fri 9 Sep at 11am Tours last approximately 1 hour A look at the building, history and collections of the Williamson with Colin Simpson, Wirral s Principal Museums Officer, including how and why collections are formed and a glimpse behind the scenes at the work of an active museum. Pre-booking required. Refreshments available at the Gallery Cafe. Gallery Reception The Williamson Art Gallery and Museum is open to the public throughout the year, Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm. Closed on Bank Holidays Bromborough Pool Bromborough Pool Village Walk Bromborough Pool Garden Centre, The Green, CH62 4TT Sat 10 Sep, 2pm to 3.30pm Meet at Bromborough Pool Garden Centre. The walk of 2 miles takes 1½ hours From Price s Candle Works to the present day, the walk will look at features of interest including the Old Court House site, which may be muddy. The role of Autism Together and Land Trust will also feature. Walkers are encouraged to visit Bromborough Pool Garden Centre, where parking is available. Booking not required. Disabled Access: walk is on pavements except the Old Courthouse which may be muddy and uneven and this section is not suitable for wheelchairs. Burton RSPB Burton Mere Wetlands Puddington Lane, Burton, CH64 5SF (Look out for brown sign on A540) Tue 6 Sep - admission free all day. Visitor reception open 9.30am to 5pm Self guided trails available Explore the historic landscape of the RSPB Burton Mere Wetlands. See the Mere, once part of the Burton Manor estate, home of Henry Neville Gladstone, son of William Gladstone, Prime Minister. Visit the remains of the Iron Age promontory fort on Burton Point. Hear about the Dee s past and the spread of the marshes, which followed its canalisation in Hot and cold drinks and snacks available for purchase. Mere and wetlands fully accessible. Route to Burton Point unsuitable for those with limited mobility. No dogs allowed, except registered assistance dogs. RSPB Burton Mere Visitor Centre deeestuary@rspb.org.uk Eastham Eastham Ferry and Country Park Ferry Road, Eastham, CH62 0BH Meet at Eastham Pier Sat 3, Mon 5, Wed 7, Fri 9 Sep Walks start 10am Walks will commemorate the 200th anniversary of the first steam powered passenger ferry across the Mersey that ran between Liverpool and Eastham. Commencing at Eastham Pier, with a talk on the history of the Ferry, the walk will continue along the shore line to Job s Ferry and the site of the old power station, returning via Eastham Woods to the Ferry Hotel. Length of walk about one hour. Pre-booking required. No disabled access. David Mottram, dr.mottram@btinternet.com or David Allan david.allan132@ntlworld.com Hooton Hooton Park Hangars The Hangars, Airfield Way, Hooton, Ellesmere Port, CH65 1BQ Access via Junction 6 M53, second exit off roundabout. Sat 10 & Sun 11 Sep Guided tours at 11am & 2pm each day Grade II* listed general purpose aircraft hangars. Built in 1917 for the Royal Flying Corps. In use by the RAF until Subsequently sold to Vauxhall Motors who built their motor assembly plant on the site. Freehold of hangars purchased in 2000 by the Hooton Park Trust. Tours last about 1 hour. Wheel chair access to most areas. Tours commence in Building 27, a Grade II listed ancillary building, housing a display of the site s 1000 years of history and exhibits relating to aircraft and the Vauxhall Viva, built at the plant in The Aeroplane Collection and The Griffin Trust, both registered charities, open to visitors after the tours. Robert Frost rfrost@hootonparktrust.co.uk 610 (County of Chester) Squadron Hooton Park Airfield, Hooton Park, Ellesmere Port, CH63 1BR Sat 3 & Sun 11 Sep, 12 noon The talk on 610 (County of Chester Squadron) covers the history of the Squadron from its inception in 1936 to its disbandment in 1957 and covers the work of the Squadron during WWII, when the Squadron was one of the most effective fighter units in the RAF. Pre-booking required. Anne Litherland anne.litherland@autismtogether.co.uk Michael Lewis michael-lewis@zen.co.uk

17 Little Neston Neston Collieries and Burton Marsh WW2 Decoy Walk Meet and finish at Harp Inn, Little Neston, CH64 0TB (off Marshlands Road) Thu 8 Sep, 10am to 4pm A walk round the former Neston Coalfield and locations, followed by a walk to WW2 Burton Marsh bombing decoy bunker, with an explanation of what it was for and how it fitted in to the Merseyside defences. Neston Neston Town Trail Meet outside Neston Parish Church, High Street, Neston, CH64 9TZ Sat 3 & Sun 11 Sep 2pm A walk round Neston town centre, exploring the town s historic buildings and some of its history Disabled Access. Pre booking required.. Refreshments available in local Cafés. New Ferry New Ferry Butterfly Park Howell Road, New Ferry (approach road to Bebington Station Car Park).The Park is signed from Bebington Road and access is between Aldi (CH62 5BG) and the railway overbridge. Meet at the Park entrance. Sun 11 Sep, 2pm to 3.30pm New Ferry Historic Walk Meet at Bebington Station, CH63 7LA Sat 3 Sep, 9.30am to 1pm A fascinating guided walk from Bebington Station to the River Mersey, showcasing the history of New Ferry and its historic waterfront. Find out about New Ferry s role as a Victorian tourist resort, its war time past and where the bombs fell, and what is so special about it today. The walk will finish at the summit of Port Sunlight River Park, so bring a picnic lunch to finish off the tour, plus stout walking shoes. Pre booking required. Disabled Access. Refreshments available at Nets Cafe. Phil Pritchard g10694@gmail.com Ness Ness Botanic Gardens Neston Road, Ness, Cheshire, CH64 4AY Mon 5 Sep, 10am to 5pm Ness Botanic Gardens was born of the Liverpool cotton merchant, Arthur Kilpin Bulley s passionate interest in plants and his desire to share that interest with others. He began the creation of the garden in 1898, laying the foundations of one of the major botanic gardens in the country. Bulley died in 1942 and in 1948 his daughter Lois presented the gardens to the University of Liverpool. Today Ness displays plants from all over the world. Free entry day to anyone. Janet Griffiths, janetgriffiths.ncs@gmail.com New Brighton All Around the Vale Meet outside Vale House Cafe in Vale Park, Magazine Lane, New Brighton, CH45 1LZ Sat 10 Sep, starting at 12 noon Walk takes approximately 90 minutes Guided heritage walk/ talk around Vale Park and the Magazines Conservation Area. This part of New Brighton by the River Mersey estuary has impressive views. There is diversity of historic interest within a small area. There will also be an optional fun quiz with a prize for the best effort. All walking route is on accessible paths Refreshments can be purchased at Vale House Tea Rooms. Booking essential. Therese Irving (leave your name and contact number) t.irving36@btinternet.com The walk will explore the industrial history of this former railway goods yard (brickmaking and railway operation), and how this has contributed to the wildlife diversity of the park. Short walk of only about 600 metres, but much to see. Live scything demonstration. The lower half of the Park is disabled-accessible. A nature reserve of the Cheshire Landscape Trust. Admission is free but donations are welcome. Some parking on site. No refreshments on site but they are available in nearby Port Sunlight and New Ferry. Paul Loughnane, jpl@liv.ac.uk No pre-booking required. Limited access. There are two flights of steep steps towards the end of the walk which are not suitable for wheelchairs. Mark Anthony Craig Oxton Oxton Guided History Walk Meet centre of Oxton Village by the postbox, CH43 5SF Sat 3 Sep, Sat 10 Sep, 11am to 12.30pm Guided tour round Oxton, with information, anecdotes and views of old Oxton. Pre-booking required One tour goes along unmade roads. Please ring in advance and we will do all we can to cater for people with a disability. We do try to help anyone with physical disabilities to enjoy the walk or arrange a personally tailored walk on another date. Refreshments available in village. Bob Knowles history@oxtonsociety.org.uk

18 Port Sunlight Port Sunlight Open Village Trail starts from Port Sunlight Museum, 23 King George s Drive, Port Sunlight, CH62 5DX Sun 11 Sep, 10am to 5pm A unique opportunity to see inside some of the village s buildings, visit gardens and allotments and meet residents. Pick up a trail leaflet from the Museum. Most places accessible. Refreshments available from the Port Sunlight Tea Rooms. Rock Ferry Rock Park Walk Meet at the New Ferry Pier Terminal at the junction of the Dell and New Ferry Road, New Ferry, CH62 1DA Tue 6 Sep, 10.30am & 1.30pm Walk lasts between 1½ and 2 hours Wallasey Rake Lane Cemetery Walks Rake Lane, Wallasey, CH45 5DE Wed 7 & Sun 11 Sep Weather permitting, there will be walks between 2pm & 4pm Short half-hour walks around the cemetery. Topics covered will be major sea disasters, e.g. Titanic, Lusitania and the Forgotten Empress and War Walks, including WWI, WWII and the Crimean War. Meet at cemetery chapel West Kirby Ashton Park Walk Start outside St Bridget s Centre, St Bridget s Lane, West Kirby, CH48 3JT Sat 3 Sep, 10am & 12 noon. Each tour lasts 60 minutes West Kirby Park opened in 1901 without ceremony. Its development was characterised by delay and overspend and initially it was only the Lower Park that was laid out, leaving today s Upper Park as sloping meadowland. Later to become known as Ashton Park, the park changed significantly over the years info@portsunlight village.com Port Sunlight River Park Dock Road North, Bromborough, CH62 4TQ Sat 3 Sep, 1.30pm The 2½ mile walk takes approximately 1½ hours Meet at River Park car park This vibrant new park and former landfill site has stunning views and overlooks the River Dibbin, Price s Candle Works and Bromborough Dock. The guided walk led by Biffa and Autism Together staff, includes the history of the site, the links with Unilever, Biffa, the Land Trust; and present day management. Booking not required Disabled parking. Footpaths suitable for wheelchairs but some slopes. Please call to check suitability. Anne Litherland anne.litherland@autismtogether.co.uk Walk finishes at The Refreshment Rooms, Bedford Road East, Rock Ferry, CH42 1LS Rock Park was designated a Conservation Area in The estate was laid out by Joseph Bennison in 1836/7 & now comprises 36 houses of different styles & all are Grade 2 Listed. Also surviving are the old Rock Ferry Pier & the listed stone slipway. The New Ferry/Rock Ferry coast is designated an SSSI (Site of Specific Scientific Interest). Moored in the Mersey were once the training ships Conway & Indefatigable and the reform ships Akbar & Clarence. Booking required. Accessible route. Refreshments can be purchased at the end of the walk. Su Thomson The Chapel will be open to view - see Rake Lane Chapel John & Diane Robinson Jonandi1@btinternet.com Take a guided walk round the park and learn about the Ashton family, the creation of the park and its development and use over the years. Booking required. Route framed to allow disabled access if necessary. Refreshments available in Hilbre Room, St Bridget s Centre. Martin Harrison martin@harrison5050.fsnet.co.uk West Kirby Old Village Walk Meet at St Bridget s Church Lychgate, Church Road, West Kirby, CH48 3JT Wed 7 Sep 10.30am A walk of 1 mile lasting 1¼ hours, through the Old Village of West Kirby. This was the centre of West Kirby until the railway came. Once a bustling community with farms, inns and shops. Some buildings survive from the 17th century. Booking required. Narrow pavements - not suitable for wheelchairs. Heather Chapman