Work is well underway to restore Bridleway 186, which runs from beside the Marry Harriers towards Enton and Hambledon Common.

Hambledon Parish Council, supported by residents concerned at the appalling state of this bridleway, successfully lobbied Surrey County Council which, after a visit by a rights of way officer, agreed to prioritise repairs.

Much of the route from Hambledon Road to Hambledon Common had become so waterlogged and muddy that it was almost impossible to walk.

Four years ago, village volunteers had tried, with some success, to improve the state of what otherwise would be a popular walking and riding route. However, it became clear that a lasting solution required major works beyond the skills and budget of villagers.

Surrey County Council agreed to fund this and contracted the work out, with a financial contribution from the Parish Council’s neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). Hambledon Nursery School kindly agreed to allow the contactors the use of its car park for its machinery during the summer holidays. It will receive some surface repairs in return.

The major undertaking was where a small stream crosses the bridleway as it enters woodland on the edge of Hambledon Common. The stream has been banked up and a new and larger culvert installed, together with a new surface and wooden handrailing.

Closer to the pub, and adjacent to its field and Dare Mead, another very muddy stretch is currently being worked on, However, a leak, probably from a septic tank, has been found and this is still seeping on to the path. It is hoped a resolution to this can be agreed.

When finished, Bridleway 186 will have had underlay, crushed stone and a rolled surface installed along the entire length, from the pub to the common, together with a cut of undergrowth and overhanging vegetation.