White Horse Rechalking
Volunteers came together to restore the Cherhill White Horse through a major re‑chalking effort on May 23rd 2026. David Grafton, Chair of Cherhill Parish Council, highlights the process, teamwork and importance of preserving this iconic local landmark.
Published: 30 May 2026
The as/dug chalk was sourced locally this year which saved transport costs and approx 20 tonnes was tipped at Yatesbury, the weather was favourable and allowed the material to be crushed to a manageable size on the concrete pad over the weekend. The following two Tuesday evenings saw an enthusiastic group of Cherhill Cubs and Scouts with leaders and parents bagging the material aiming at approx +/- 20 kgs per bag these then being stacked on pallets.
Again with dry but extremely hot weather on The Friday and early Saturday morning some 1000 plus bags were moved to the top of the hill, and from 10am . onwards our intrepid Scouts / Leaders / parents/ locals and with volunteers from far and wide about 140 people ranging in age from 5 to 75 years assembled .
The first phase involved the removal of grass and weed growth which builds up over the 2 years , and once cleared a chain of people was created to pass the bags down the hill with others spreading and leveling the material . Every one involved worked extremely hard in the hot conditions and it was with great relief the last bags were slid onto the horse .
I would like to thank the following for their cooperation and assistance
R. J Horton and Son / A4 Farming / Rob Pickford / D. T Grafton ( Forestry) / National Trust / Andy Brown / Richard Gantlett / Matt Candy ( M.C. Loo Hire ) / Cathy and the leaders of the Cherhill Scouts and not least all the volunteers for their work on the day.
David Grafton
Chair, Cherhill Parish Council