Who we are

Vale Commons Council

The Commons are managed by the Vale Commons Council (“the Council”). This body is empowered by an Ordinance (XI of 1932) and the Council comprises five members, two of whom must be Douzeniers. In particular, their duties include a responsibility “to regulate and supervise the use of the Commons not only as a place for the exercise of the rights of common pasture, but also as a place of public resort and recreation and this in such a way as to ensure as far as possible to every person the opportunity to enjoy the amenities of the place for those purposes and to prevent any use which would be harmful to the general interest.” Article 4 (translated). The members of the Council are elected by the Habitants of the Clos du Valle (“Habitants”). They are unpaid.

The current members of the Vale Commons Council are:

  • Rosemary Henry (President & Douzenier)

  • Andre Quevatre (Vice-President & Douzenier)

  • Nigel Leale (Member & Douzenier)

  • John Niles (Member & Douzenier)

  • Richard Digard (Member & Douzenier)

Maintenance Team

The day-to-day maintenance of the common is the responsibility of two full time groundsmen. They are overseen by a part-time Commons manager. 

Vale Commons Rangers

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As part of its plans for making the Vale Commons a better place for all users, the Vale Commons Council has introduced a scheme of voluntary Rangers for the Commons.

Their role is to offer assistance and guidance in a helpful and friendly manner, but also to deal with incidents of dog fouling, over-zealous cycling on the footpaths – where the speed limit is 10mph – and other infringements by a minority of users of the Commons.

Rangers are Special Constables with the full range of police powers while acting on the Commons.  They are easily identified by their green reflective vests.  Rangers will use a light touch, and aim to be approachable, but will take firm action on those rare occasions where it is necessary.

We are starting with six Rangers, but expect that number to increase.  If there are people out there who see this type of voluntary service as being something for them, then they are welcome to contact Peter Blake on 07781106715 or Rosemary Henry on 246330. They need not be Habitants, but they do need to know and love the Commons.