SDO13993 - Osmington White Horse Hill-Figure, Dorset, A Regal Restoration. Surveyed and Historical Evidence for the Re-established outline

‘In 2011 English Heritage and Ordnance Survey collaborated on a research project to inform the restoration of the George III chalk-cut hill-figure, commonly known as the Osmington White Horse. Although a relatively recent creation (1808), little was known about the hill-figure’s origins or the changes made to it through time. In recent years, this prominent Scheduled Monument also suffered extensive erosion, further obscuring its original shape, and leading to its inclusion on the Heritage at Risk Register. The project’s objective – to establish the most appropriate outline for reinstatement – was prompted by the Osmington Society, which had been actively promoting the restoration of this local landmark in partnership with English Heritage, Natural England, Dorset County Council, Dorset AONB Partnership and the local landowners. Following the restoration, the monument was officially unveiled by HRH The Princess Royal in March 2012.’