Shippam’s Paste owner’s relatives invited to opening of new Downs Link path

Paul Hamlin, who retired from the police in 2001 after 26 and a half years of service, is hoping to speak to descendents of the late potted meat and fish pastes producer ahead of the opening of the new path next month.

Charles Shippam, who was the owner of family business Shippam’s Paste, lived at Priory Cottage, Boxgrove, Chichester, and was a prominent rights of way campaigner.

Paul, who lives in Dorking, Surrey, said: “He was a keen worker for the preservation and expansion of public rights of way in Sussex, completing detailed ‘slashingly critical’ reports to West Sussex County Council in 1971 and 1974.”

Charles Shippam’s campaign work is of interest to Paul due to the retired officer’s own work to improve public rights of way.

He has led work to develop the Downs Link bridleway, which was established by Surrey County Council and West Sussex County Council in 1984.

This route necessitated walkers, cyclists, and horse riders to transfer to a hazardous one-mile stretch of road at Mill Lane, Itchingfield, prior to reaching Christ’s Hospital.

Paul launched the ‘Missing Link’ campaign in April 1999 to address this issue, seeking to create a safe green corridor for public use.

After 21 years of campaigning, Paul’s vision is becoming a reality, and an official public opening is set to take place.

On Friday, April 24, the new path of the Downs Link bridleway at Christ’s Hospital will be officially opened at 12.45pm.

Paul said: “I wish to invite descendants of Charles Shippam to be present as I believe his vision has now been completed by me after 21 years of campaigning.”

Contact Paul by telephoning 07940 319166.