My Cub in Centenary Woods

Sat 6 Jun, 11:13 (last edited on Sat 6 Jun, 12:30)

A few facts I think worth sharing...

One of the people who helps to manage Centenary Woods was been consulted on this 'Destruction of Badger Sets' matter on Thursday. He has been to see the ramps and confirms no badger sets have been damaged and saw no harm in the boys' activities. 

No badgers have been harmed or threatened.

No sets have been destroyed or disturbed

So no crime or vandalism has taken place. There was never any malicious intent behind the boys' activity. 

The small group of boys (about 5/6 in total) are aged 10,11 and just turned 12 in April - there are no teenagers. 

It is because they are nature lovers that they are out in the woods. If they were to see any badgers/cubs they would be thrilled and treat them with respect and wonder! However, being nocturnal animals, non have been seen as they are generally in their sets during day light hours.

The boys biking and ramp making (there are only 2 ramps and it has taken many visits and dedicated hours to build them!) is purely innocent, healthy, harmless, outdoor fun. It is a great antidote to the stresses of modern childhood and the antisocial bedroom gaming, scrolling and on-line bullying that is so endemic in the young today. This activity has led to a generation of teenagers plagued with anxiety, depression and aggression.

Madeleine, I'm sorry they were a bit silly and immature when you approached them. They were clearly showing their 'tweenager' ages then, but nothing more sinister.

The boys have all been spoken to by their parents, it has been underlined to them to be aware of badgers in future and where their sets are. That, and consulting with someone who helps in Centenary Woods  for his view, is all that is needed. TVP have bigger issues to spend their limited time and resources on I feel. 

I really hope this reassures those who had worries.   And next time walkers and bike children pass they can all just say a nice, respectful 'hello' and then allow each to share and enjoy the wonderful Charlbury country side we are spoilt with here. Lucky us!

Richard, I wrote this yesterday but didn't get the chance to post it.  I hope you think it has been a worthwhile contribution so don't mind me posting.  Please do shut this thread down again, I'd be very happy for you to do so!