Saturday Norfolk Video

[Majorman]

The Fens

This is an area that I have worked in for many years and where the main companies I still work for have their bases. Sit back and enjoy a 1940's film .

 

[plattman]

Very interesting. Lots of hand labor in those days. I suppose the lands are still farmed?

 

[Majorman]

Very interesting. Lots of hand labor in those days. I suppose the lands are still farmed?

It was very hard work and the marshmen did not make old bones, as we say here. Yes, the land is still in full production and still sinking slowly. Big vegetable growers on most of it but now a lot wheat and rape as well.

 

[Janicholson]

It was very hard work and the marshmen did not make old bones, as we say here. Yes, the land is still in full production and still sinking slowly. Big vegetable growers on most of it but now a lot wheat and rape as well.

How close to sea level is the sinking land. Do they pump it to limit the production of a "lake"? Jim

 

[Majorman]

How close to sea level is the sinking land. Do they pump it to limit the production of a "lake"? Jim

It is quite a lot below sea level, Jim, The rivers and drains are way above the land and water is always being pumped into the main channel. It is let out into the sea through the main sluice at Denver that was originally constructed by a Dutchman, tasked with draining the fens, van Muiden, (sp) in the time of Henry 8th. He was working for the then Duke of Bedford.

Bit restricted at the moment but will get some pictures next time I go, which is a regular occurrence for me as I work with Standens and Team every week. Have a whole load of repairs to do today for them.

 

[Randyscottsboro]

Good to see you back at work keeping us yanks abreast of how you limeys do things across the pond. Hopes and prayers for a speedy recovery to you both.