A brand new discovery centre for the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), was officially opened yesterday at a special launch event.

Housed in the Old Prison, Northleach, and aptly named 'Escape to the Cotswolds', the new centre has been developed by the Cotswolds Conservation Board to help tell the fascinating story of the Cotswolds AONB. The new development also enables the re-opening of some of the original cells of the Old Prison, a former house of correction built in the 1790’s.

With stunningly designed new interpretive displays, the new centre provides a focus for discovering more about this unique landscape. Visitors to the centre can learn about the geology, history, landscape, wildlife and outdoor recreation, including the Cotswold Way National Trail, as well as the conservation heroes who have helped to make the Cotswolds the special place that it is today. Younger visitors will also be able to learn about the history of the Cotswolds landscape through an interactive video game entitled ‘Quantum Sheep and the Wonderful Wolds’.

Speaking at the launch yesterday, Martin Lane, Director of the Cotswolds Conservation Board said: "I am delighted that this excellent new centre for the Cotswolds is now open. It has been the aspiration of the Board for some time to develop a facility that enables us to tell the story of the AONB to the millions of visitors to the area, as well as the many people who live here. Now, thanks to a tremendous team effort, we have something that I am sure will become a popular attraction that will help more people gain a greater understanding and appreciation of this beautiful landscape.”

ENDS

Photograph attached: Jeff West, Chairman of Cotswolds Conservation Board (left) and Mike Pezet, Mayor and Chairman of Northleach Town Council, cut the celebration cake to mark the official opening of ‘Escape to the Cotswolds’.

Notes to editors:

• ‘Escape to the Cotswolds’ is open from 10am to 4pm, Wednesdays to Sundays (including Bank Holidays), April to October.
• Admission is free of charge.
• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation with 37 members, 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by Government.
• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and National Parks as our finest countryside and they are recognised as being of national importance.
• With its rolling hills and valleys the Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park. It covers 2,038 square kilometres (790 square miles), stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, down to Bath and Wiltshire in the south.
• The Cotswolds AONB is the largest of the family of 47 AONBs in the UK. For further details: www.aonb.org.uk
   

A brand new discovery centre for the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) will be officially opened tomorrow, Thursday 29th July.

Housed in the Old Prison, Northleach, and aptly named 'Escape to the Cotswolds!', the new centre has been developed by the Cotswolds Conservation Board to help tell the fascinating story of the Cotswolds AONB. The new development will also enable the re-opening of part of the Old Prison, a former house of correction built in the 1790’s.

With stunningly designed new interpretive displays, the new centre will provide a focus for discovering more about this unique landscape. Visitors to the centre can learn about the geology, history, landscape, wildlife and outdoor recreation, including the Cotswold Way National Trail, as well as the conservation heroes who have helped to make the Cotswolds the special place that it is today. Younger visitors will also be able to have a go at the educational and interactive game ‘Quantum Sheep and the Wonderful Wolds’.

Martin Lane, Director of the Cotswolds Conservation Board said: "As the largest AONB in the country, the Cotswolds offers not only diverse scenery and landscape, but a rich history and heritage. It is a fascinating story to tell the millions of visitors to the area, as well as the many people who call the Cotswolds their home. I am therefore delighted that this new centre is open which I am sure will be a popular attraction that will help more people gain an understanding and appreciation of this beautiful landscape.”

Notes to editors:

• The new centre is open from 10am to 4pm, Wednesdays to Sundays (including Bank Holidays), April to October.

• Admission to the centre is free of charge.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation with 37 members, 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by Government.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and National Parks as our finest countryside and they are recognised as being of national importance.

• With its rolling hills and valleys the Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park. It covers 2,038 square kilometres (790 square miles), stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, down to Bath and Wiltshire in the south.

• The Cotswolds AONB is the largest of the family of 47 AONBs in the UK. For further details: www.aonb.org.uk

Press contact: Nicola Greaves
Tel: 01451 862003 Email: nicola.greaves@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
 

Launch of new Cotswolds dry-stone walling grant scheme

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation with 37 members, 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by Government.
• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and National Parks as our finest countryside and they are recognised as being of national importance.
• With its rolling hills and valleys the Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park. It covers 2,038 square kilometres (790 square miles), stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, down to Bath and Wiltshire in the south.
• The Cotswolds AONB is the largest of the family of 47 AONBs in the UK. For further details: www.aonb.org.uk

Conserving and enhancing

Understanding and enjoying

People and communities

All responses to consultations can be viewed on the board’s website at www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk (Board, Executive Committee and Sub Committee news can also be found on the website)
Director Martin Lane Office Manager Margaret Fletcher Administrative Officer Claire Parker Land Management Officer Mark Connelly Volunteer Co-ordinator Rebecca Jones Planning Officer Malcolm Watt Information & Interpretation Officer Nicola Greaves Student Placements Tom Pocklington Nick Jones	Project Development/Business Planning Officer Simon Smith Rural Skills & Grants Officer David Molloy HLS Officer Stuart Leaver Cotswold Way National Trail Officer James Blockley Assistant Cotswold Way National Trail Officer Don Field   Supported by 300 voluntary wardens throughout the AONB	Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way Northleach Gloucestershire GL54 3JH Tel: 01451 862000 Fax: 01451 862001 Email: info@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The Cotswolds Wildflowers Week, which takes place from 12 to 20 June, will provide unique opportunities for people of all ages to discover some of the best places to see wildflowers across the AONB including Cleeve Common, Glyme Valley, Stonesfield in West Oxfordshire, Bredon Hill and Selsley Common.

There will also be the chance to join a walk with botanist Dr Paul Smith and the Broadway Natural History Society to find out more about the wildflowers of Broadway Hill, and join the Cleeve Common conservation officer to learn more about this important grassland and Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Many of the walks will be led by Cotswold Voluntary Wardens, who will be able to provide interesting commentary along the way. Walks vary in length and ability, from 3 to 10 miles. Other events taking place this week are offered by the National Trust and Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust.

Nicola Greaves, spokesperson for the Cotswolds Conservation Board said: “Cotswolds Wildflowers Week is the second of our three themed nature events taking place during this celebratory year of biodiversity. With such a variety of wildflowers on display at this time of year, this event should appeal to anyone with an interest in nature and who wants to find out more about some of the special flora of the Cotswolds.”

Full details of all events are available from the Cotswolds AONB website, go to: http://www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk/events.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• 2010 has been declared International Year of Biodiversity by the United Nations to raise awareness of the importance of biodiversity and celebrate success stories.
• Dogs are not allowed on guided walks, apart from guide dogs for the blind and hearing dogs for the deaf.
• Appropriate footwear should be worn on guided walks as some walks may be steep and muddy in places.
• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation with 37 members, 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by Government.
• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and National Parks as our finest countryside and they are recognised as being of national importance.
• With its rolling hills and valleys the Cotswolds is the third largest protected landscape in England and Wales after the Lake District and Snowdonia. It covers 2,038 square kilometres (790 square miles), stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, down to Bath and Wiltshire in the south.
• The Cotswolds AONB is the largest of the family of 47 AONBs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. www.aonb.org.uk

Cotswolds Conservation Board Volunteer Co-ordinator, Becky Jones, said: “Our wardens are a dedicated and enthusiastic group of people who are passionate about the Cotswolds. By getting involved with such a variety of projects across the whole of the AONB, they help us to reach out to a much wider audience and promote the importance of this very special area.”

Head Warden David Colbourne said:
"Last year was an exceptionally busy time for the wardens. Not only were we involved in a wide variety of conservation work, but I am pleased that we are also making a valuable contribution towards education and training, and encouraging a lot of enthusiastic participation by both teachers and children.”
ENDS

Notes to editors:

• Working in partnership with other organisations continues to be an important element of the work of the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens Service. They work with local authorities, environmental organisations, wildlife charities and many local communities to help conserve, enhance and increase understanding and enjoying of the AONB.
• The figure of over £280,000 is derived from the Heritage Lottery Fund formula of £6.50 per volunteer hour.
• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation with 37 members, 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by Government.
• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and National Parks as our finest countryside and they are recognised as being of national importance.
• With its rolling hills and valleys the Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park. It covers 2,038 square kilometres (790 square miles), stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, down to Bath and Wiltshire in the south.
• The Cotswolds AONB is the largest of the family of 47 AONBs in the UK. For further details: www.aonb.org.uk

As an invited participant to Cotswold District Council's first ever Environment Fair, the Board, which is the organisation that looks after the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), will be providing a range of information for visitors to the fair to help tackle environmental issues as well as promote ways in which people can enjoy the AONB in a sustainable way.

Information and advice on offer by the Board include:

• A range of factsheets on switching to renewable sources of energy
• The latest 'Explore the Cotswolds by Public Transport' guides, including information for the Cotswold Way
• Sustainable Development Fund – grants of up to £13k available
• Cotswolds Wildflowers Week - 12-20 June: a week of fascinating nature walks and events taking place throughout the AONB
• New off-road cycling opportunities in the Cotswolds
• Full, summer programme of free guided walks led by Cotswold Voluntary Wardens
• Free prize draw questionnaire on sustainable tourism, to win family tickets to the Moreton Show.

Martin Lane, Director of the Cotswolds Conservation Board, said: "I think holding an environmental focused event is a great idea by Cotswold District Council and we are delighted to be participating. It offers us an excellent chance to discuss first hand with people, ways in which they can be more sustainable in their everyday life."
ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation with 37 members, 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by Government.
• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and National Parks as our finest countryside and they are recognised as being of national importance.
• With its rolling hills and valleys the Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park. It covers 2,038 square kilometres (790 square miles), stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, down to Bath and Wiltshire in the south.
• The Cotswolds AONB is the largest of the family of 47 AONBs in the UK. For further details: www.aonb.org.uk
•  

All this week, a range of guided walks are taking place throughout the Cotswolds, providing people with many opportunities to enjoy nature and our surrounding countryside.

Free guided walks around Wychwood Forest, the Macmillan Way and Little Compton are on offer by the Cotswolds Voluntary Wardens this week, while this weekend Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust will be exploring the night time world of Midger Nature Reserve. With half term upon us, there is also the chance for families to explore Little Solsbury Hill this Sunday for a range views across Bath as well as a chance to discover more about this historic area.

Martin Lane, Director for the Cotswolds Conservation Board, said: “This is a great opportunity to learn more about the many beautiful areas of the Cotswolds AONB, the flora and fauna they support and their importance for us all. The events are also a fun way for the whole family to explore the great outdoors”.

The European Day of Parks was created by the EUROPARC Federation, the umbrella organisation for Europe’s protected areas, to raise the profile of these green gems and generate public support for their aims and work. Since it was launched in 1999 many protected landscapes have taken advantage of this opportunity and hundreds of themed events have been held across Europea each year on and around the 24th May. The date is significant because it is the day the first European national park was founded in Sweden in 1909.

This year, the hundreds of special events across Europe connected to the theme ‘Biodiversity and People: Space for Nature?’ will celebrate the International Year of Biodiversity.
ENDS
 

Notes to editors:

• The United Nations proclaimed 2010 to be the International Year of Biodiversity,

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation with 37 members, 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by Government.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and National Parks as our finest countryside and they are recognised as being of national importance.

• With its rolling hills and valleys the Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park. It covers 2,038 square kilometres (790 square miles), stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, down to Bath and Wiltshire in the south.

• The Cotswolds AONB is the largest of the family of 47 AONBs in the UK. For further details: www.aonb.org.uk

Saturday 19 June 7.30 pm - 10pm, gates open 6pm.

Bring a picnic and enjoy the music as the sun sets on a summer's evening at Upton. Adults £13.50, (£15 on the gate) child £7.Box Office: 01295 671122

Contact details:National Trust Upton House and Gardens, Nr Banbury, Warks  OX15 6HT.  Telephone: 01295 670366; uptonhouse@nationaltrust.org.uk 

The "Biodiversity In Gloucestershire" picnic is being held on the top of Leckhampton Hill and Charlton Kings Common between 12.30pm - 3.30pm on Saturday 22 May.  Organised by FWAG and its partner organisations including Cheltenham Borough Council, Natural England, and the Friends of Leckhampton Common to name a few, the event will be relaxed and informal with guided walks along the Cotswold Way, opportunities to try some dry stone walling, face painting and meet the cattle that graze the common.  There will be music from a local band and beer from a local brewery on sale.  And if you can stay on the common until early evening, up to 20 hot air balloons will be taking off from the nearby rugby field, creating a magnificent spectacle and conclusion to the event. 

The aim of the afternoon is to think about the biodiversity around us, celebrate what is there and recognise the importance of protecting it for future generations. 

Picnic particpants are encouraged to bring food sourced locally and to walk, cycle, bus or car share to the event.   

The BIG picnic is free of charge to attend although a donation to FWAG will assist us to give free advice on how to save biodiversity across Gloucestershire.

For more information contact Jenny Phelps, email jenny.phelps@fwag.org.uk, tel 01452 627487
 

The new publication, which supports the Board's position statement on the management of deer, provides information about the needs and benefits of the effective management of a sustainable population of wild deer in the Cotswolds. It recognises that deer are part of the countryside and the chance of seeing these beautiful mammals is one of the many pleasures of living and visiting the Cotswolds AONB. However it also highlights the issues and impacts caused by high densities of deer in some areas. Deer numbers in the Cotswolds have increased over the years, which have led to increasing habitat damage, crop damage, collisions with road traffic and disease.

Mark Connelly, Land Management Officer at the Cotswolds Conservation Board said: "Working with the Deer Initiative, we have aimed to set out the reasons why deer need to be managed and how a properly managed population of deer is better for the environment, the people as well as the animals.

The management of deer is primarily the responsibility of the landowner, however it should be a long term process and is much more effective when landowners work together as part of a deer management group, of which there are two currently in the Cotswolds. The Deer Initiative can help provide advice and information to such groups."

Director of the Deer Initiative, Peter Watson, said: “We welcome this position statement and supporting leaflet as setting the way forward for sustainably managing deer in the Cotswolds AONB, and we look forward to working with the Board in the future on this joint venture.”

The new leaflet, along with the position statement can be downloaded from the Cotswolds Conservation Board's website or are available by calling the Board direct on 01454 862000.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The new Managing Deer in the Cotswolds leaflet can be downloaded here.
• The full position statement can be viewed online here

Cotswolds AONB fact file

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation with 37 members, 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by Government.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and National Parks as our finest countryside and they are recognised as being of national importance.

• With its rolling hills and valleys the Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park. It covers 2,038 square kilometres (790 square miles), stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, down to Bath and Wiltshire in the south.

• The Cotswolds AONB is the largest of the family of 47 AONBs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
 

Work is now well under way on the 44km pipeline, which will meet the growing demand for reliable and economic gas supplies in the south west of England by next winter.

Most rights of way crossing the pipeline working area (the spread) will remain open during construction. Stiles or kissing gates have been used where rights of way cross the spread, although users are asked to take great care when crossing, to look each way for traffic and ensure dogs are kept on a lead.

Where we cannot keep rights of way open, short diversions have been agreed with Gloucestershire County Council's Rights of Way team. Each diversion is clearly signed at either end and details with maps are posted on National Grid's website at: www.nationalgrid.com/uk/Gas/Pipelines/Wormington/RightsofWay/.

For safety reasons, it may also be necessary to close some crossing points for short periods (maximum of 48 hours) during construction, and we will do our utmost to keep these to a minimum.

National Grid senior project manager, Ian Sarson said: “Safety is paramount in all aspects of National Grid's work.

“We have worked hard to minimise disruption to rights of way users during our work. However, construction traffic uses the spread to reduce disruption to local communities and visitors, and we would urge people to cross the spread with caution.”

National Grid has appointed PPS Pipeline Services to build the pipeline, and their normal working hours will be 7am to 7pm Monday-Friday and 7am to 4pm on Saturdays. Anyone wishing to know more about the pipeline can call the freephone project information line on 0800 731 0561, email enquiries@sw-rp.co.uk or visit the project website at: http://www.nationalgrid.com/uk/Gas/Pipelines/Wormington
 

National Trail Officer at the Cotswolds Conservation Board, James Blockley said: “We are pleased with the way the project is progressing as we are working closely with the National Grid team to ensure that, not only is the environment surrounding the pipeline safeguarded, but also that people can continue to safely walk and enjoy the countryside during the construction process.”

As part of its commitment to working with communities temporarily inconvenienced by pipeline construction, National Grid is delighted to support the Winchcombe Cotswold Walking Festival.

The event, organised by Winchcombe Walkers are Welcome, takes place on Friday 21 May to Sunday 23 May and offers a wide variety of guided walks, from easy one-mile strolls to more strenuous day-long walks of around 11 miles. Booking for the walks is essential, and further information is available at www.WinchcombeWelcomesWalkers.com or by calling the Winchcombe Tourist Information Centre on 01242 602925.

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Further information from Caroline Davidson, Project Communications on 07785 254696
 

Weekend courses in dry-stone walling, hedgelaying, green woodworking and Cotswold slate roofing are being offered from April through to January 2011 in a range of locations across the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Aimed primarily at beginners, the courses aim to keep traditional skills alive in the Cotswolds by developing the skills needed to maintain the unique, rural features of the AONB such as dry-stone walls and hedgerows. These features are not only an important part of the Cotswolds landscape, but also provide habitats for many key species, including Cotswold Pennycress, the small, rare snail Lauria sempronii, bumblebees and the Yellowhammer.

Green woodworking courses help to raise awareness of the importance of effective woodland management through coppicing and encourage people to look more closely at woodlands to identify the products that can be derived from them. These courses are offered in association with Cotswold Woodland Crafts and teach the basic skills of cleaving, trimming, shaving and turning on a pole-lathe, as well as learning the safe use of many tools such as the billhook, bow saw and cleaving axe. Students will be able to have a go at making a wide range of items such as a rolling pin, stool, dibber and honey drizzler. Those with some experience of woodworking can undertake a more advanced project of their own choice.

In addition to the programme of courses, annual competitions are held in dry-stone walling and hedgelaying to help develop, improve and celebrate these time-honoured skills.

The Cotswolds Conservation Board's Rural Skills & Grants Officer, David Molloy said:
"Traditional skills in the countryside are at risk of being lost forever with technology advancing at an ever-increasing rate. By offering a range of courses in rural skills, we are helping to keep alive traditional techniques that have been used for hundreds of years while raising awareness of the need for conserving our natural boundaries and woodlands."

To view the 2010 programme of rural skills courses, the programme leaflet can be downloaded from the Cotswolds Conservation Board's website www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk.
ENDS

Notes to editors:

• Further details including programme and downloadable leaflet can be viewed here.

Cotswolds AONB fact file

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation with 37 members, 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by Government.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and National Parks as our finest countryside and they are recognised as being of national importance.

• With its rolling hills and valleys the Cotswolds is the third largest protected landscape in England and Wales after the Lake District and Snowdonia. It covers 2,038 square kilometres (790 square miles), stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, down to Bath and Wiltshire in the south.

• The Cotswolds AONB is the largest of the family of 47 AONBs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

For further information and high res images:

Nicola Greaves
Information & Interpretation Officer
Cotswolds Conservation Board
Fosse Way
Northleach
Gloucestershire GL54 3JH
T: 01451 862003
E: nicola.greaves@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
 

The majority of the walks are researched and led by the Cotswolds Voluntary Wardens, who work on behalf of the Board, and range from short easy strolls, ideal for families, to longer treks more suitable for experienced walkers. With the Wardens' extensive knowledge and experience of the Cotswolds, these guided walks provide an ideal opportunity to learn more about the landscape, history, flora and fauna of the UK's largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Taking place across all parts of the Cotswolds, the walks visit places such as Oxfordshire's ancient Wychwood Forest, Gloucestershire's wildflower-rich commons, historic sites including Warwickshire's Rollright Stones, and walks that take in some of the most spectacular views across the City of Bath. Some of the walks follow circular routes along parts of the Cotswold Way National Trail which runs the length of the AONB from Chipping Campden in the north to Bath in the south.

As an added feature this year, and to help celebrate the 2010 International Year of Biodiversity, this year's events programme includes a Bluebell Weekend, Cotswolds Wildflowers Week and Cotswolds Rivers Week, offering people of all ages the chance to find out more about some of the Cotswolds' special flora and fauna. Also participating in these events are the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and National Trust who are organising a number of walks, talks and family events.

Spokesperson for the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Nicola Greaves said: "Our walks are very popular with visitors to the area and local residents, and this year, thanks to the enthusiasm and expertise of our voluntary wardens, we once again have a fantastic range of walks and events that offer the chance to enjoy and appreciate what this special part of England has to offer."

David Colbourne, Head Warden, said: "We have a number of expert guided walks co-ordinators across the AONB who have been leading walks for many years. This year we are delighted to be able to offer our new programme of walks as well as participate in the International Year of Biodiversity by helping to give people a deeper understanding of the countryside."

The full programme of walks can be viewed here or by picking up a free copy of the Spring/Summer 2010 Cotswold Lion newspaper which is available at tourist information centres, libraries and other public places. The newspaper can also be downloaded here

ENDS

Cotswolds AONB fact file

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation with 37 members, 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by Government.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and National Parks as our finest countryside and they are recognised as being of national importance.

• With its rolling hills and valleys the Cotswolds is the third largest protected landscape in England and Wales after the Lake District and Snowdonia. It covers 2,038 square kilometres (790 square miles), stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, down to Bath and Wiltshire in the south.

• The Cotswolds AONB is the largest of the family of 47 AONBs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Press contact: Nicola Greaves
Tel: 01451 862003 Email: nicola.greaves@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Cotswolds Conservation Board, Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH
Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
 

The work involves fencing the working area (the ‘spread’), removing and storing topsoil, and digging a trench, which will then be backfilled once the pipeline has been laid. The new pipeline is expected to be in operation by the Autumn, although reinstatement of the land may continue after this time.

National Grid has been working extensively with the Gloucestershire County Council Rights of Way team, and local walkers to ensure the majority of footpaths and bridleways that cross the pipeline construction area will remain open throughout the work, with stiles or kissing gates being installed at crossing points to allow access.

Where rights of way cannot be kept open, short diversions are provided and clearly signposted. However, extra care should be taken when crossing the working area and dogs kept on a lead. For safety reasons, some rights of way may need to be closed for around 48 hours when we are trenching and laying the pipe into the ground.

Senior project manager, Ian Sarson said:
“Protection and enhancement of the environment are very important to National Grid and we have consulted widely with statutory bodies such as the Environment Agency, English Nature, stakeholders, including the Cotswolds Conservation Board (CCB), and other local farming, conservation and community groups.

“We are committed to effectively managing and monitoring our works, with our ultimate aim being to restore all of the land to its original pre-construction condition and ensure effects to the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, including the drystone walls, are kept to a minimum”.

Throughout the planning and construction of the project, National Grid uses environmental and archaeological specialists to ensure compliance with legislation and the conditions stipulated by the Department of Energy and Climate Change when consent for pipeline construction was granted.

National Grid has appointed PPS Pipeline Services to build the pipeline, and their normal working hours will be 7am to 7pm Monday-Friday and 7am to 4pm on Saturdays.

Anyone wishing to know more about the pipeline can call the freephone project information line on 0800 731 0561, email enquiries@sw-rp.co.uk or visit the project website at: http://www.nationalgrid.com/uk/Gas/Pipelines/Wormington

A map showing the route of the pipeline can be downloaded here.

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Further information from Caroline Davidson, Project Communications on 07785 254696

National Grid
National Grid is an international electricity and gas company and one of the largest investor-owned energy companies in the world. We play a vital role in delivering gas and electricity to millions of people across Great Britain and northeastern US in an efficient, reliable and safe manner. We believe the power of action can play a major role in safeguarding our global environment for future generations and tackling the effects of climate change, providing all our customers with the highest standards of service through network investment and through our talented, diverse workforce.

National Grid owns the high-voltage electricity transmission network in England and Wales and operates the system across Great Britain. It also owns and operates the high pressure gas transmission system in Britain and its distribution business delivers gas to 11 million homes and businesses.

www.nationalgrid.com
 

Conserving and enhancing

Understanding and enjoying

People and communities

Strategic management and planning

All responses to consultations can be viewed on the board’s website at www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk (Board, Executive Committee and Sub Committee news can also be found on the website)
Director Martin Lane Office Manager Margaret Fletcher Administrative Officer Claire Parker Land Management Officer Mark Connelly Volunteer Co-ordinator Rebecca Jones Planning Officer Malcolm Watt Information & Interpretation Officer Nicola Greaves Student Placements Tom Pocklington Nick Jones	Project Development/Business Planning Officer Simon Smith Rural Skills & Grants Officer David Molloy HLS Officer Stuart Leaver Cotswold Way National Trail Officer James Blockley Assistant Cotswold Way National Trail Officer Don Field   Supported by 300 voluntary wardens throughout the AONB	Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way Northleach Gloucestershire GL54 3JH Tel: 01451 862000 Fax: 01451 862001 Email: info@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

National Trust Upton House and Gardens, Nr Banbury, Warwickshire  OX15 6HT.  Telephone: 01295 670266 email: uptonhouse@nationaltrust.org.uk website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/uptonhouse

National Trust Upton House & Gardens, Nr Banbury, Warwickshire, OX15 6HT.  Telephone: 01295 670266; email: uptonhouse@nationaltrust.org.uk website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/uptonhouse

Cotswold Farm Park has welcomed popular interactive video game star and time-traveling hero ‘Quantum Sheep’ to their attraction, to help teach children about the history of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

‘Quantum Sheep and the Wonderful Wolds’, specially commissioned by the Cotswolds Conservation Board, is designed to introduce the concept of landscape change over time to primary school children in a fun and interactive way. The game’s hero, Quantum Sheep, takes youngsters on a journey through four eras - Iron Age, Roman, Medieval and Victorian. Along the way he encounters many natural wonders of the Cotswolds including over 40 species of plants and animals, as well as historic features such as the Rollright Stones.

Primary school teachers visiting the Farm Park have the opportunity to use the game as an aid for pupils studying History and Geography at Key Stage 2. An accompanying lesson planning pack enables school groups to take full advantage of opportunities available.

Andy Cole, Manager at Cotswold Farm Park said: “We are delighted to have the kiosk here at the Cotswold Farm Park we feel it highlights the Farm Parks main aims of conservation and education in a fun and interactive way.”

The game is housed in a self-contained kiosk, another one of which is located at the Corinium Museum in Cirencester.

ENDS

Notes to editors: 

1. ‘Quantum Sheep and the Wonderful Wolds’ was created with the help of The Heritage Lottery Fund, as part of the Cotswolds Conservation Board’s ‘Caring for the Cotswolds’ project.
2. Cotswold Farm Park is open daily from March to October 10.30-5pm

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation with 37 members, 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by Government.
• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and National Parks as our finest countryside and they are recognised as being of national importance.
• With its rolling hills and valleys the Cotswolds is the third largest protected landscape in England and Wales after the Lake District and Snowdonia. It covers 2,038 square kilometres (790 square miles), stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, down to Bath and Wiltshire in the south.
• The Cotswolds AONB is the largest of the family of 47 AONBs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Follow the clues to win a chocolate prize!  Child £1.50  Normal admission prices apply!

Upton House & Gardens, Nr Banbury, Oxfordshire  OX15 6HT - tel: 01295 670266.  Email: uptonhouse@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/uptonhouse

Date and time: 10am Saturday 22nd May 2010

Meeting point: Main pay and display car park at south end of Painswick village.

Duration/distance: 9 miles / approx. 6 hours including 1 hour for lunch

Dogs: Well-behaved dogs welcome, must be kept under control around livestock. Prams/pushchairs/wheelchairs: Not suitable.

Terrain: Some steep hills, uneven ground, muddy in places. Sturdy walking boots recommended. Basic level of fitness required.

Charge: Free Booking: No need to book Lunch: Bring your own picnic!

Kate Gamez
Reserve Manager Cotswold Commons and Beechwoods NNR
The Ebworth Centre
Ebworth Estate
The Camp
Stroud
Glos
GL6 7ES

Tourism is hugely important to the economy of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the Cotswolds Conservation Board is working with partners to develop opportunities for sustainable tourism which recognise the present and future needs of the environment, tourism businesses, visitors and the local community.

As part of this process, the Cotswolds Conservation Board would like to hear your views on tourism in the Cotswolds AONB.  Please therefore take a few minutes to complete the questions in our online survey by following this link - Click here to take survey

In return for your help and participation with this survey, your names will be entered into a prize draw to win one of four family tickets to the 2010 Moreton-in-Marsh Show on Saturday 4 September.  For further details about the show, visit www.moretonshow.co.uk.

Competition Terms & Conditions

• Entry available to UK residents over the age of 18 except Cotswolds Conservation Board employees, volunteers, members and their families.
• Only one entry per person.
• The prize is one family ticket to the Moreton-in-Marsh Show on Saturday 4th September 2010.
• There are four prizes in total.
• Winners will be chosen on 31 July 2010 at random.
• Prizes are not transferable, and there is no cash alternative.
• Details of the winners may be used for marketing purposes.
• Entry into the prize draw is deemed acceptance of these terms and conditions.
• Names and counties of the winners will be made available on or after 31 August 2010 by sending a stamped address envelope to Cotswolds Conservation Board, Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH.
• The Promoter: Cotswolds Conservation Board, Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH.

With a maximum group size of 8, Sarah and her assistant, fellow photographer Neil Protheroe, will work together with you to ensure you receive a high level of individual tuition. Whether you are a beginner or enthusiast, shoot digital or film, the workshops are designed to help develop your skills as a landscape photographer, at some of the most picturesque locations the Cotswolds has to offer.

Further dates throughout the summer months are to be announced.

For more information and to check availability please contact Sarah at info@imageseen.co.uk or call 07760 498 112.

David Molloy has joined the Cotswolds Conservation Board as Rural Skills and Grants Officer to further develop the annual programme of traditional skills courses and the Sustainable Development Fund.

David, who is from Chipping Norton, joins the Board from Oxfordshire County Council where he has been employed as Countryside Tasks Assistant since January 2009. Prior to this, David worked for Chichester Harbour Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty as a Ranger and Hampshire County Council as Hampshire Paths Partnership Officer. He graduated from Bournemouth University in 2005 with a BSc(Hons) Environmental and Conservation Biology.

With a wide range of experience and interests in the countryside and environment sectors, David is looking forward to his new role in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

“I am delighted to be taking up the challenge of driving forward the Board’s rural skills programme which plays such an important part in keeping traditional crafts such as drystone walling and hedgelaying alive in the Cotswolds.

I am also looking forward to working with, and helping local communities and organisations achieve a more sustainable way of living through the Board’s Fund grant scheme, the Sustainable Development Fund,” said David.

Anyone who is interested in taking part in one of the rural skills courses or applying for the Sustainable Development Fund should contact David on 01451 862002 or david.molloy@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk. Further details are also available from the Board’s website – www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The full programme of rural skills courses in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty can be viewed here.
• Sustainable Development Fund grants are available to any organisation including community or voluntary groups and local authorities. Individuals and businesses can qualify for the scheme if their project shows a clear benefit to the wider community.

Cotswolds AONB fact file

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation with 37 members, 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by Government.
• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and National Parks as our finest countryside and they are recognised as being of national importance.
• With its rolling hills and valleys the Cotswolds is the third largest protected landscape in England and Wales after the Lake District and Snowdonia. It covers 2,038 square kilometres (790 square miles), stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, down to Bath and Wiltshire in the south.
• The Cotswolds AONB is the largest of the family of 49 AONBs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Date: Sunday 13 June

Time: 10.00

Distance: 5 miles

Duration: 2.5 hours

Starting Point: Cleeve Hill Quarry Car Park

Cost: £5 towards church funds.

Date: Wednesday 16 June

Time: 10.00

Distance: 5 miles

Duration: 3 hours

Starting Point: Selsley Common