In the Reign of King John (1199-1216)
There is a local legend that a ferocious wild boar had a den in the forests on Scout Scar, a few miles to the west of Kendal. It caused great damage and terrorised pilgrims visiting the Holy Cross at Plumgarths. After a dramatic fight, Richard De Gylpin slew the boar and was well rewarded by the Baron of Kendal.
Scout Scar is now home to some of the few remaining ancient woodlands close to Kendal – but the boars disappeared long ago. There is still much debate about whether the digging activity of wild boar has a positive effect on our woodlands and whether they should be allowed to return. What do you think?