03/12/22 PRESS RELEASE: COMMUNITY UNITES ON DARKEST DAY OF THE YEAR TO SHINE LIGHT ON THE MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF BALDERTON LAKE
Over fifty Balderton and Newark residents united on the eve of Halloween at Balderton Lake, holding candles and lanterns highlighting the importance of the lake for their mental health and well-being.
Among lantern-lined pathways, residents of all ages listened to classical music including Swan Lake and joined together to sing the traditional hymn, ‘All Things Bright and Beautiful’.
The event, organised by Saving Wildlife and Nature (SWAN), collected iconic memories of the lake from attendees, including how the peaceful wild space has aided people's mental well-being, especially during and post the pandemic.
SWAN members also gave speeches, highlighting the high use of the lake for its peace and serenity, which received cheers of support.
“The candle-lit vigil was a lovely community event, showing again, that even on the darkest of nights, the community came together to shine their light on our beautiful lake,” says Sam Farrell, parent and Balderton Resident. “It was beautiful to see many people uniting to protect the lake and keep it free from watersports.”
Since Balderton Parish Council has motioned to weaken its bylaws on banning boats on the lake, to allow YMCA Newark and Sherwood to put kayaking on the lake, campaigners and residents have been concerned about environmental impacts, alongside the health and safety of users and the disruption to the lake's peace and tranquility.
On September 7, a second petition was handed into Balderton Parish Council, with almost 4,000 signatures asking them to revoke their licence to the YMCA. Balderton Parish Council has still not confirmed a date to debate the petition.
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