Every Step Will Count at Horseshoes Hike on 28 September

The publication of Essex County Council’s report this week announcing the likely locations of nearly 50,000 new homes – many of which would be destined for the new airport workers that that would be needed for even one more runway at Stansted – will bring home to many the urgency of making their voices heard on expansion before it is too late.

It also means that Stop Stansted Expansion’s (SSE’s) Horseshoes Hike and Rally next Sunday (28 September) is likely to be even better attended than expected as people turn out in their droves to walk part or all of the seven mile route across countryside that would be obliterated under concrete or rendered uninhabitable because of its proximity to an expanded airport.

“Every step will count in getting the message across to the Government that airport expansion at Stansted and the sweeping changes that these would bring to towns and villages across the region are totally unacceptable,” said SSE Campaign Director Carol Barbone.

With the weather forecast set fair for the big day, it looks certain that the protest walk will make its intended impact on the Transport Secretary Alistair Darling and his Ministers.

Meanwhile, the rally at 3pm on Molehill Green will confirm the commitment of the Stop Stansted Expansion campaign team, local politicians and Terry Waite to fighting for the cause.  Airport Watch Director Jeff Gazzard who has worked closely with SSE on many occasions will take the role of MC in his own, inimitable style.

LUCKY SEVEN:  THINGS YOU NEED KNOW ABOUT THE HORSESHOES HIKE

1.      The hike will be officially launched by Terry Waite CBE and a surprise VIP at 11am with a few short speeches and the lighting of the beacon in the garden of the Three Horseshoes Pub at Duton Hill (between Dunmow and Thaxted)

2.      Participants can walk all or part of the seven mile route, with or without sponsorship.  Staging points are as follows:

* Duton Hill (Three Horseshoes) check in 10am to 12 noon
* Great Easton (Village Hall) check in by 12.45pm
* Little Easton (The Stag) check in by 1.15pm
* Easton Lodge check in by 1.45pm (good picnic spot!  Toilets here too)
* North Hall/Browns End Road check in by 2.30pm
* Arrive Molehill Green (Three Horseshoes) by 3pm for rally

3.      Main parking will be at Duton Hill and Molehill Green, with shuttle buses to all staging points (car drivers should drop off their passengers first if possible)

4.      Two stages of the walk (Little Easton to Easton Lodge to North Hall) are suitable for wheelchair users and pushchairs ask a marshal for extra assistance if required.  Transfer from North Hall to Molehill Green by shuttle bus

5.      Molehill Green will feature the Horseshoes Challenge between the landlords and staff of the two Three Horseshoes Pubs involved with the Hike and members of the public can also try their luck

6.      A giant BBQ will be held at Molehill Green for much of the afternoon and there will be a beer/refreshment tent

7.      A trail quiz has been organised for walkers with prizes including family meals at the Three Horseshoes and three £10 gift vouchers.