Memories of the Dam

Long standing residents of Wellow have fond childhood memories of the dam, and some of these are reproduced here;

From Dennis Crooks; "It is common knowledge how Common Land came into being, but there are no written records stating how the Dam was created. It is my true belief that an area of ground on common land was used to provide clay for the purpose of making bricks at the local brick yard that was situated on Rufford Road at that time. The top soil was placed at the far side of the ditch and the area is now called Beech Hill. The crater that was created was used to provide a drinking area and a place for animals to cool in the summer heat whilst grazing on common land. This area has obtained the name of Wellow Dam, is fed from a spring, and discharges into the natural ditch. Now that it is not required for the purpose of watering animals, it is being used to provide many hours of pleasure for people fishing, and also encourages young people to participate; in doing so it prevents them from getting bored and creating damage and untidiness to the village structure. In addition to the pleasure it provides, it is also providing a regular income which helps to maintain the common land; this includes the triangular green around the maypole, which originates from the early days of settlement. The appearance of this green gives passing visitors a true reflection of the people that live in Wellow. Should you obtain any document that records the true reason how the Dam came into being, I would be pleased to know."