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The Village Pond

"Weavers"

In 1870, the existing pond on the Village green used to be much larger and got its name from one of the Knight family members. 'Weaver' Knight as he was called made basketware at a cottage to the West of the pond. This practice of soaking withies continued until about 1912.

In addition to basketware, the villagers also built small boats without seats called a Khaish.

The reed was also cultivated on the 3 other ponds on Jayes Park. The reeds were harvested, dried and woven into a Khaish. To make it watertight, they used puddled clay and left it to harden in the sun. These boats were then used in an annual rowing race on the pond and each competitor made oars of ash.

As a prize, Golden guineas were given to the victor, one of which still survives and is dated as 1745. This is owned by Mr. S. J. Knight whose grandfather was one of the winners.

As all sporting events go, illegal bets were placed and often arguments ensued, resulting in fights and the boat being sunk. The pond is now used by the Ockley Angling Society and a couple of rather aggressive Geese!

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