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North Norfolk News
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 A brief history of Hanworth CommonHanworth Common lies between Cromer and Aylsham in North Norfolk. The name is derived from Hagana (the Dane who invaded Norfolk in 870AD, and whose name was anglicised to Han), and Worth meaning Waters, which relates to the two streams that enclose the Parish - Hagan's Beck and Scarrow Beck. The Weavers' Way from Cromer to Great Yarmouth runs through the village. The Common covers 35 acres protected by cattle grids, and, as such, is the largest enclosed Common in England. The first maps of Hanworth Common go back to 1628, when the Doughty family bought the Manor of Hanworth from the Duke of Norfolk. And they bought more land from the Earl of Surrey in 1690. At the time, there were three Commons - Bell House Common, Hook Hill Common and Barn Stable Common - together constituting Hanworth Green. In 1845, Hanworth Park, which did not include The Common, was bought by the Windham family of Felbrigg Hall. In the 1860's Hanworth was a thriving community of about 230 people, and several artists (including Repton and Cotman) came to paint it. There were many businesses - a dress-maker, stone mason, blacksmith, and wood carver. The blacksmiths was destroyed by a German bomb in 1940. Hanworth Common has been managed by a Committee since at least 1909, the earliest minutes that we hold, and all residents had Grazing Rights. In 1972 Hanworth Common was registered under the Commons Registration Act 1965, and, as there was no known owner, Possessory Title was granted to the Hanworth Commons Management Committee in 1974. The Committee are responsible for managing The Common, and letting the grazing. About 50 cattle now graze The Common from May to October. In late 2004, a son of Lord Suffield claimed ownership of Hanworth Common. He has produced no evidence, and Court proceedings are pending. He took it upon himself to erect fences, even though it is illegal to fence Common land. The fences have now been removed, but the question of ownership is unresolved. We are passionate to maintain our control of this beautiful and historic area. That is why we are asking for your financial support to help us defend our heritage in this undiscovered part of North Norfolk. Norfolk County Council's Cultural Services has some interesting material published at http://www.noah.norfolk.gov.uk/default.aspx. Just type Hanworth into the search. |
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