14/10/2026
Hoping all groups will allow this post. Sorry about the length. Please bear with me and read on if you walk in the woods from Moneyhole to Black Fan Road.
Yesterday my amazing doggy nearly drowned in sludge before my eyes, and I'd like it to serve as a warning to keep everyone safe.
On the path from Moneyhole to Black Fan Road past Sylvandale on your right, there's an old shelter on the left. Just beyond this is a stretch of marshy land. See the pics and W3W for location.
My doggy took off chasing something with the dog I was walking, Storm, hot in pursuit. They both disappeared but I could see Storm in the start of the marshy area. Here I could also see just the nose, mouth and eyes of Billy, with his paws thrashing around but not getting anywhere. Without a thought I ran towards him. I immediately found myself chest high in sludge, just about able to reach Billy but struggling to move in the sludge.
I managed to hold Billy up with 1 hand while using the other to slowly pull myself out using what I believed to be a fallen tree.
After a 6 hour clean up, including an on line vet consultation, Billy started to recover from being in shock. I think I still am!!
Our family will be forever indebted to Storm for looking out for our Billy.
I know this area has been marshy for sometime but I didn't realise quite how deep and dangerous it is. I'm in contact with the council to discuss how the area can be made safer.
I have seen children playing in the area around the old shelter and numerous dogs being walked off lead. Please be incredibly careful you do not find yourself in the same situation as me, particularly if you are short..... and please look after your doggies in this area.
Thanks again to my superhero Storm 🦸♂️
