A special event at Fairlop Waters celebrated the remarkable history of Fairlop Plain and recognised the work of local historian David Martin and the Fairlop Heritage Group.
The event, held at The Boathouse at Fairlop Waters, brought together local representatives, schools, community groups and heritage volunteers to preview a new heritage film, “Fairlop Through Time.”
The short film explores the fascinating story of Fairlop, tracing the site’s history from the Ice Age nearly half a million years ago to the present day. Created in collaboration with the Fairlop Heritage Group, the film aims to help residents and visitors better understand the rich heritage of one of Redbridge’s most important historic landscapes.
A New Heritage Exhibition
Alongside the film preview, a small heritage exhibition was launched at The Boathouse. The display features:
- A timeline of Fairlop’s history
- Wartime facts and information about RAF Fairlop
- An information board dedicated to the Fairlop Heritage Group
- A free leaflet visitors can take away to learn more about the site
The exhibition helps visitors explore the story of Fairlop while visiting Fairlop Waters.
Why Fairlop Matters
Fairlop Plain has a long and fascinating history that reflects both local and national stories.
Highlights include:
Ice Age origins
Glacial movement deposited Boyn Hill gravel, shaping the landscape that still exists today.
17th century history
In 1662, diarist Samuel Pepys visited King’s Wood (Fairlop Plain) to assess timber for use in the Royal Navy.
Fairlop Fair
Beginning in the 1720s around the famous Fairlop Oak, the annual fair became one of Essex’s most well-known celebrations.
First World War
A Royal Naval Air Station operated at Fairlop during the war, where 22 personnel lost their lives.
Second World War – RAF Fairlop
Opened in 1941, RAF Fairlop was home to nearly 400 aircrew and 6,000 ground crew from 16 nations.
Forty personnel were lost during operations, and part of the original runway still survives today as the entrance road to Fairlop Waters.
Recognising David Martin’s Contribution
The event also celebrated the work of David Martin, who founded the Fairlop Heritage Group in 2009 with the aim of protecting and sharing the area’s heritage.
Through the group, David has:
- Researched and documented Fairlop’s geology, woodland heritage, Fairlop Fair and aviation history
- Established annual remembrance ceremonies each November
- Organised a commemorative Spitfire flypast over Fairlop Waters in 2011
- Worked with schools, veterans, historians and community groups to share Fairlop’s story with future generations
As a token of appreciation, David was presented with a personalised Spitfire ornament by Jas Athwal MP and The Mayor of Redbridge, Councillor Beverley Brewer the Leader of Redbridge Council, Councillor Kam Rai. Barbara Martin was also recognised for her support with a bouquet presented by the Leader of Redbridge Council, Councillor Kam Rai.
Looking to the Future
The celebration also highlighted plans to protect and enhance Fairlop Waters as part of the Fairlop Master Plan. Redbridge Council and Vision are working together on ambitious proposals that will expand the park by around 250 acres in the coming years, helping to preserve the area for future generations.
