New book marks 150 years since Wanstead Flats protest

Local historian Mark Gorman has published a book describing how a protest on Wanstead Flats 150 years ago helped preserve Epping Forest and other commons for public use in the face of unchecked development across London.

“On 8 July 1871, thousands gathered to protest. A campaign was in full swing – a campaign that renowned ecologist Oliver Rackham dubbed ‘the origin of the modern British environmental movement’,” said Mark.

Saving the People’s Forest is published by UH Press (£16.99).

Visit wnstd.com/saveforest

Author: Editor