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

Date: Wednesday 16 June

Time: 10.00

Duration: 3 hours

Starting Point: Chipping Norton Town Hall

Date: Wednesday 16 June

Time: 10.00

Distance: 5 miles

Duration: 2.75 hours

Starting Point: Entrance to Sapperton Church

Date: Wednesday 16 June

Time: 19.00

Starting Point: Details sent upon booking

Date: Saturday 19 June

Time: 10.00

Starting Point: Details sent upon booking

Cost: £8 per kite workshop

Date: Sunday 20 June

Time: 11.00

Starting Point: Meet at top reception

Date:  Sunday 20 June

Time: 10.00

Distance: 10 miles

Duration: 6 hours

Starting Point: At telephone box in Kinsham

Date: Sunday 20 June

Time: 10.00

Distance: 3 miles

Duration: 2 hours

Starting Point: Reservoir on Minchinhampton Common

Date: Sunday 20 June

Time: 14.30

Distance: 4 miles

Duration: 3.5 hours

Starting Point: Stonesfield, West Oxfordshire

Cotswold’s-based Adam Powell is running the length of the long-distance footpath between Bath in Somerset and Chipping Campden, in Gloucestershire, on Saturday 16th May to raise awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

Adam is also trying to raise over £10,000 for charity Help For Heroes, which supports wounded British service men and women.

With his fitness company based in Bourton-on-the-Water, Adam will be making the most of his proximity to the Cotswold Way footpath to train for the event. But the personal trainer won’t have time to take in the picture-postcard sights as he tackles the gruelling, multi-terrain course throughout both daylight hours and into the night.

Adam could find himself in the Guinness Book of Records if he makes it to Chipping Campden within a day; becoming the first person to run the full length of the famous footpath – the equivalent of almost four marathons – inside 24 hours.
Training and preparation will be crucial for the event and Adam has enlisted help from the experts. Sci-MX Nutrition will provide personalised advice on nutrition as well as access to their full range of sports supplements. Compression and recovery clothing specialists, 2XU, are providing Adam with the apparel he needs to recover efficiently from his gruelling training schedule.
Adam commented, “The idea to run the Cotswold Way first came about in a conversation with a client who was walking it for charity back in 2007. As a performance specialist I am constantly looking for new ways to push physical endurance to the max and this seemed like the perfect opportunity”.
He added, “It is also a great way to promote outdoor activity and a healthy lifestyle while doing my bit for charity. Training for such an event has been a steep learning curve as well as an intense personal challenge”.

Follow Adam’s progress as he blogs his experiences at his website http://aruninthecountry.com or keep track of his updates on Twitter at http://twitter.com/PowellFitness

ENDS

Notes for Editors:

• Adam Powell is a Personal Trainer from Gloucestershire, his company Powell Fitness have helped hundreds of athletes achieve their training goals. Website: http://aruninthecountry.com
   
• Help for Heroes was founded by Bryn and Emma Parry after a profoundly moving visit to Selly Oak Hospital in the summer of 2007 to provide practical, direct support for wounded British service men and women.  Website: http://www.helpforheroes.org.uk
   
• Sci-MX, based in Andoversford, Gloucestershire, draws on the world's leading scientific research to help consumers reach the ultimate in fitness levels and muscular development, and at the same time enjoy the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Endorsement from some of the world's leading sports stars has created invaluable aspirational value for the brand.  Website: http://www.sci-mx.co.uk

The three-day event will take place from Friday 21 May to Sunday 23 May 2010. Every day there will be at least five walks to choose from, varying in length and difficulty from strenuous full day walks on the Cotswold Way to half-day walks and short, level health walks. There will also be evening social events e.g. dinner with a quiz, and a barn dance for those who still have the energy!

The organisers are going to great lengths to make sure the walks are special. There are experts lined up to talk to walkers about the rare butterflies and flowers, the archaeology, and the local steam railway. Two of the walks on the Friday will end up at historic Stanway House, where the Earl of Wemyss has agreed to give a private viewing of the highest gravity-fed fountain in the world.

Our experienced walk leaders are drawn from many organisations – Cotswold Way National Trail Officers, Cotswold AONB Voluntary Wardens, Ramblers, and Walking for Health. All the leaders know the local countryside very well.

Visit 4,000 year old Belas Knap long barrow, discover the Roman mosaic floor in the woods that brought Bill Bryson to Winchcombe, take in views of Sudeley Castle, burial place of Catherine Parr and wedding venue of Liz Hurley. Let experts lead you to the sites of the rare Duke of Burgundy butterfly, and to the habitats of several species of orchids, or walk 30 miles of the Cotswold Way National Trail.

Winchcombe has a great range of accommodation, pubs and restaurants, and attractions. To find out more and to book your place while there are still some available, visit Winchcombe’s new website which has been designed with walkers in mind –
www.winchcombewelcomeswalkers.com

You will be made very welcome – not just in May, but at any time!

For further details, visit: www.winchcombewelcomeswalkers.com.

ENDS

Notes for Editors:

The organisers are indebted to National Grid and Gloucestershire Market Towns Forum for providing funding to make this event possible and to Tewkesbury Borough Council for their support and advice.

For more information or other images please contact:

Sheila or Robert Talbot
01242 602325
info@winchcombewelcomeswalkers.com
 

• The full report, Climate Change – the future of farming and forestry in the Cotswolds – is available to view online CLICK HERE.

• The forum will start at 9.30 am and finish at 1pm.

• Members of the media are welcome to attend the forum, please inform Nicola Greaves of attendance (contact details below).

 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.

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

This April, the Cotswolds Conservation Board will be launching the first of its three, free themed nature events to help local residents and visitors celebrate the special features of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) during this year’s International Year of Biodiversity.

The Cotswolds Bluebell Weekend, which takes place on 24 and 25 April, will provide unique opportunities for people of all ages to discover some of the best places to see bluebells across the AONB - from Ozleworth Bottom near Wotton-under-Edge, to Lynches Wood near Chipping Campden. Walks around Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust’s Midger Nature Reserve south of Nailsworth and the spectacular bluebell woods of Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust’s Foxholes Nature Reserve near Chipping Norton also form part of the weekend’s programme of events.

In addition to the Bluebell Weekend, a number of other bluebell walks will be taking place during May, offering the chance for even more people to enjoy and learn more about one of Britain’s favourite wildflowers.

Most 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 an easy 2 mile walk suitable for younger families, to a more challenging 11 miles with some steep places in parts.

Two further themed events will be taking place later this year – the Cotswolds Wildflowers Week (12-20 June) and Cotswolds Rivers Week (4-12 September).

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

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• Dogs are not allowed on guided walks, apart from guide dogs for the blind and hearing dogs for the deaf.
• 2010 has been declared International Year of Biodiversity (IYB) by the United Nations. Click here to link to the official IYB website.
• Appropriate footwear should be worn on guided walks as some walks may be steep and muddy in places.

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.

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 Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a living working landscape.  Many of the distinctive features in the landscape are the result of man's interaction with the land over the centuries.  For example, there are more than 4,000 miles of drystone walls, constructed from the thin strata of oolitic limestone that lies just beneath the ground's surface.  Hedgerows too are a notable part of the landscape, providing habitats for key species.

Sadly many of these features are in a state of severe neglect and disrepair and, without action to maintain them, may soon be lost for good.  We run a programme of activities to help people develop the skills needed to maintain these unique, rural features. 

Our green woodworking and hurdle making courses inspire people to use traditional techniques to make products from coppice woodlands.  Many of these woodlands have not been managed properly for years - partly because of a decline in the market for coppice goods.  As a result, they have lost the biodiversity they would once have supported.  Participants are encouraged to look more closely at the woodlands in their localities to identify the products that can be derived from them.

Rural Skills Courses:

 

Course	Date	Location	Price
Gate Hurdle Making*	10 & 11 April	Prinknash	£135
Dry Stone Walling	17 & 18 May	Tetbury	£80
Introduction - Green Woodworking*	24 & 25 April	Prinknash	£105
Dry Stone Walling	1 & 2 May	Long Compton	£80
Wooden Tool Making	8 & 9 May	Northleach	£105
Dry Stone Walling	8 & 9 May	Tetbury	£80
Lime Mortar	15 & 16 May	Chavenage	£80
Weekend - Green Woodwork*	22 & 23 May	Prinknash	£105
Dry Stone Walling	5 & 6 June	Lansdown, Bath	£80
Cotswold Slate Roofing**	12 & 13 June	Cirencester	£150
Introduction - Green Woodwork*	12 & 13 June	Prinknash	£105
Gate Hurdle Making*	19 & 20 June	Prinknash	£135
Tastor Day - Green Woodwork*	10 July	Prinknash	£60
Gate Hurdle Making*	17 & 18 July	Prinknash	£135
Lime Mortar	17 & 18 July	Chavenage	£80
Dry Stone Walling	24 & 25 July	Lansdown	£80
Dry Stone Walling	7 & 8 August	Huntsmans, Naunton	£80
Field Gate Making	14 & 15 August	Northleach	£135
Dry Stone Walling	28 & 29 August	Crickley Hill	£80
Introduction - Green Woodwork*	11 & 12 September	Prinknash	£105
Gate Hurdle Making	18 & 19 September	Northleach	£135
Wooden Tool Making	2 & 3 October	Northleach	£105
Dry Stone Walling	2 & 3 October	Bradford-on-Avon	£80
Weekend - Green Woodwork*	9 & 10 October	Prinknash	£105
Hedgelaying	27 & 28 November	TBC	£80
Hedgelaying	4 & 5 December	TBC	£80
Hedgelaying	23 & 24 January 2011	TBC	£80
Hedgelaying	5 & 6 February 2011	TBC	£80

* These courses are run by Cotswold Woodland Crafts. For further information please visit www.cotswoldwoodlandcrafts.co.uk

** Course ran by the Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester.  For further information please visit www.rac.ac.uk

 Courses are run over weekends and will cost £80 per person, but for further information and details of availability, please contact our Rural Skills Officer, David Molloy, on 01451 862002 or email david.molloy@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Rural Skills Application Form (but please check availability first)

When: Saturday 24th April

Time: 10.00

Distance: 4 miles

Duration: 3 hours

Starting point: Outside Overbury Church

Date: Saturday 24th April

Time: 10.00 am

Duration: 6 hours

Distance: 11 miles

Starting point: Car park at top of Nottingham Hill (Explorer map 179/982 279)

Date: Saturday 24th April

Time:  10.00 am

Distance: 9 miles

Duration: 5½ miles

Start: Uley Village Green

Date: Sunday 25th April

Time: 10.30 am

Duration: 2 hours

Distance: 2 miles

Start: Dover's Hill National Trust car park (leave no valuables in your car)

Date: Sunday 25th April

Time: 10.30 am

Distance: 4 km

Duration: 2 hours

Start point: Nature Reserve car park (SP 258206)

Date: Thursday 22 April

Time: 10.00 am

Distance: 5½ miles

Duration: 3 hours

Start point: Newark Park

Date: Saturday 12th June

Time: 2pm

Distance: 5½ miles

Duration: 3½ hours

Start: Outside Horse & Hounds Public House, Broadway High Street

Date: Sunday 13th June

Time: 10.00 am

Distance: 10 miles

Duration: 6 hours

Start point: Selsley Common - first car park past cattle grid nearest Penn Wood

Artist Takumasa Ono will be teaching the Japanese art of Sumi-e; a traditional form of ink painting.  All equipment provided.  Price £12 per person per session.

Session 1: Saturday 23 January 2010

Session 2: Saturday 27 February 2010

Session 3: Saturday 27 March 2010

10am - 12pm at Cotswold Grange Hotel in Cheltenham, Pittville Circus Road, Cheltenham  GL52 2QH www.cotswoldgrange.co.uk

To reserve your place please call the Cotswold Grange Hotel on 01242 515119

Locations: the free car park and start is at Foxcote Hill, near the lovely village of Ilmington, CV36 4LD. (South of Stratford upon Avon near Shipston on Stour).

Minimum donation £5 per adult walker and £2 for schoolchildren, payable at the start. 

For further information go to www.cotswoldwalk.org.uk including map, instructions and sponsorship forms (if required).  Contact:  John Round tel: 01608 684 302 email: jasround@googlemail.com

By kind permission of Mrs Laurence Rook

Overlooked by romantic C12 - C17 castle ruin (not open), overflowing planted paved terrace leads to C18 house (not open) across moat to sloping lawn with spring bulbs in abundance, and full herbaceous and shrub borders.  Large walled kitchen garden and greenhouses, orchids.

£4 adult, accompanied children free. 1-1½ miles W of Tetbury on A4135.

Wheelchair access, dogs allowed, plants & teas

High House - by kind permission of Sue and Richard Powell

Views, Tree House and Alpacas

Orchard House - by kind permission of Janet & Mark Dacy

Spring interest with small stumpery, grass and pond gardens

The Walled Garden - by kind permission of Fiona & Marcus Harling

Family garden, substantially re landscaped and replanted over the last few years in conjunction with the building of a contemporary waterside 'eco' house.  Parts are still work in progress.

Coombe House - by kind permission of Grizelda & David Vermont

Queen Anne House and gardens with views, lawns and kitchen garden.

Street Farm - by kind permission of Gillian & Hugh WhittakerParterre and topiary with a large emphasis on tulips and colour.  New vegetable garden.  Meadow.

Beech Barn - by kind permission of Paul & Lyn Martin

Newly designed with borders, pond, kitchen and secret gardens.  Maximises space using reclaimed materials.

Rose Villa - by kind permission of David Valentin

1.3 acres with mature trees sloping up to Uley Bury and good views, spring bulbs and tree house.

Lampern Cottage - by kind permission of Kate & Andrew Longstaff

Part walled garden created during the last 4 years with knot garden, potager, moongate pond and a wide variety of plants.

 Angeston Grange - by kind permission of Juliet & Ben Browne

Beautiful setting and views with herbaceous woodland and vegetable gardens.  Children's treasure hunt and teas.  Teas in village hall at top of village.

£4 adult, accompanied children free.  From Dursley travel south on A4135.  In Bull Pitch take Uley road (B4066) to Uley.

Upton Wold, GL56 9TR - by kind permission of Mr & Mrs Ian Bond

Ever developing and changing garden, architecturally and imaginatively laid out around C17 house (not open) with commanding views.  Yew hedges, herbaceous walk, some unusual plants and trees, vegetables, pond and woodland gardens.  Beyond the woodland garden is the national collection of Juglans with nearly 200 cultivars.

£4 adult, accompanied children free.  Off A44 between Moreton-in-Marsh and Broadway.  Travelling from Moreton-in-Marsh the gates are approximately 1 mile beyond Troopers Lodge garage (A242), on right of road, before turning right signposted Blockley & Paxford.

Cotswold Garden in a lovely position overlooking a quiet valley on different levels with terrace designed by Normal Jewson in 1938.  Large snowdrop collection, shrubs and trees.  Hot soup lunches also available.  Bulbs for sale.  £4 adult, accompanied children free.

5 miles NW of Cirencester on A417.  From Cirencester turn left, signposted Duntisbourne Abbots/services, then right and right again through underpass.  Private drive straight ahead.

Romantic walled garden.  Working kitchen garden, well labelled berb garden.  Abundant snowdrops and spring bulbs all around the wooded grounds.  Gravel paths and some inclines.  Hot soup lunches also available.  £4 adult, accompanied children free. 

On A435 Cirencester to Cheltenham road.  Tunr left opposite Bathurst Arms, past church, up hill, pillared gates on right.

By kind permission of Major M T N H Wills

Essentially formal, dating from C17, magnificent position overlooking Golden Valley.  Walled garden with long newly planted mixed borders, yew walk leading to a lower lawn.  Bulbs, blossom, topiary and trees.

£4 adult, accompanied children free.  Signs to Miserden from A417 or B4070 Birdlip to Stroud.

The Old Rectory, Quenington, GL7 5BN

By kind permission of Mr & Mrs David Abel Smith

On the banks of the mill race and the River Coln, this is a richly varied riverside garden, totally organic.  Mature trees and planting, large vegetable garden,herbaceious, shade, pool and bog garden. 

The Old Stores, Quenington

By kind permission of Mrs Betty Morris

Small garden but full of treasures.  Spring bulbs and hellebores a feature.  Idyllic position. 

£4 adult, accompanied children free

2 miles N of Fairford

By kind permission of Major M T N H Wills.  www.misardenpark.co.uk

Essentially formal, dating from C17, magnificent position overlooking Golden Valley.  Walled garden with long newly planted mixed borders, yew walk leading to a lower lawn.  Bulbs, blossom, topiary and trees.  £4 adult, accompanied children free.  Signs to Miserden from A417 or B4070 Birdlip to Stroud.

Welcome to the latest news from the Cotswolds Conservation Board

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 Andrew Morris Tom Pocklington	Project Development/Business Planning Officer Simon Smith Rural Skills & Grants Officer David Molloy (starts 8 February) Farmland Birds Officer Neil Harris Cotswold Way National Trail Officer James Blockley Assistant Cotswold Way National Trail Officer Don Field Supported by over 350 voluntary wardens	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

Together with other Protected Landscapes in South East England, the Cotswolds Conservation Board is bidding for substantial funding from the South East England Development Agency to develop and promote rural tourism in the region.

The concept is to develop and promote a series of holiday packages and experiences which celebrate the special qualities of these areas and will generate business for participating rural enterprises.

To encourage local businesses to participate in the project, a workshop is being held on Thursday 28th January at Eynsham Hall, Witney, Oxfordshire. Interested businesses will have to demonstrate that they are operating in a sustainable manner, support the values of the Cotswolds AONB and provide a quality product to the customer.

This is the first phase of the project and is designed to select an initial group of products with market appeal and to identify enterprises that are interested in participating, in principle. The bid for funding to take the project forward will be made by South East Protected Landscapes in spring 2010 and, if successful, the project will run for 3 years starting in summer 2010.

The 3 initial products which have been identified for the Cotswolds AONB are based around conservation holidays, cycling breaks and ‘green’ weekends.

If any business which is located in the AONB would like to attend this workshop, further information can be obtained from Nicola Greaves at the Cotswolds Conservation Board on 01451 862003 or email: nicola.greaves@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk.

Date: Thursday 18 February 2010
Time: 13.00
Type of event: practical
Location: Greystones Farm Nature Reserve
Pre-booking required
Cost: £5 per box

Call Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust on 01452 383333

When: Thursday Mar 11th 2010
Time: 19:30
Where: Stroud
Type: Talk
No Booking Required
Cost: £3 per person
Event Ref: SAG10 01
Directions: Painswick Church Rooms, at the top end of Painswick’s Stamages Lane Car Park, just off the A46.

Call Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust on 01452 383333

When: Sunday Apr 25th 2010
Time: 13:00 - 16:00
Where: Stroud (GL12 7EH)
Type: Walk
Places: 20
Pre-Booking Required: Yes
Cost: Donations welcome
Event Ref: WALK10 01
Directions: Midger Nature Reserve, south of Nailsworth

Call Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust on 01452 383333

When: Wednesday Apr 14th 2010
Time: 19:30
Where: Stroud (GL6 0DU)
Type: Talk
No Booking Required
Cost: £3
Event Ref: SAG10 02
Directions: Nailsworth Library, The Mortimer Room, Old Market, Nailsworth GL6 0DU

Call Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust on 01452 383333

When: Sunday 2nd May 2010
Time: 04.30 - 06.30
Where: Greystones Farm Nature Reserve
Type: Walk
Places: 40
Pre-Booking Required: Yes
Cost: £5
Directions: Greystones Farm Nature Reserve.

Call Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust on 01452 383333

Linking National Grid's existing installations at Wormington (near Broadway) and Sapperton (near Cirencester), the essential 44 km, 900mm-diameter (36”) pipeline will meet the growing demand for reliable and economic gas supplies in the South West of England by next winter.

Over the next few months, National Grid will be undertaking pre-construction work such as the delivery of pipes to prepared storage areas, coppicing hedges and developing accesses. Weather permitting, main construction work will start in March 2010, this involves fencing the working area (the ‘spread’), removing and storing topsoil, and digging a trench, which will be backfilled once the pipeline has been laid.

It is anticipated that the pipeline will be in operation by the end of September 2010, although reinstatement of the land may continue after this time.

“We are pleased that the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) has acknowledged the need for this essential pipeline,” said senior project manager Ian Sarson.

“The final route was carefully chosen after extensive investigations and discussions. We sought the views of landowners and other consultees such as English Nature, the Cotswolds Conservation Board (CCB), the Environment Agency, local authorities and many local countryside, farming and conservation groups. Now that we have received consent, we will continue to work closely with them and with local communities affected by our works to ensure they are kept informed as work progresses.”

“Care for the environment is extremely important to National Grid and we are committed to effectively managing and monitoring all of our works. Our ultimate aim is to restore all of the land to its original pre-construction condition as soon as possible after the pipeline is in the ground,” Ian continued.

Martin Lane, Director at the Cotswolds Conservation Board said: “Not surprisingly the Board is disappointed that the route selected will go through so much of the AONB. The Board had objected to the route and challenged the route selection assessment. Nonetheless the Board accepts the department’s decision and will work with National Grid to ensure that the environmental qualities of the Cotswolds are safeguarded and where possible enhanced, during the construction of the pipeline.”

Throughout the project, all work within the Cotswolds AONB will be monitored by a consultant working on behalf of the CCB as part of the pipeline team to ensure that all work meets the conditions set by DECC. To help with their understanding of the unique features of the Cotswolds, members of the project team recently undertook a two-day dry stone walling course run by the CCB.

Local people who wish 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

ENDS

Further media information from Caroline Davidson, Project Communications on 07785 254696.

Note to Editors:
Wormington to Sapperton Pipeline Key Facts
Length: 44km (28miles)
Diameter: 900mm (36 inches)
Timescale: Construction will start in spring 2010 for completion at the end of October 2010.
 

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.

National Grid manages the National Gas Emergency Service freephone line 0800 111 999.

Cotswolds Conservation Board
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 Cotswolds AONB is the third largest protected landscape in England and Wales after the Lake District and Snowdonia and the largest of the family of 49 AONBs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. 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.
 

Reporting on the Board's activities since September 2009

Merry Christmas

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 Andrew Morris Tom Pocklington	Project Development/Business Planning Officer Simon Smith Rural Skills & Grants Officer David Molloy (starts 8 February) Farmland Birds Officer Neil Harris Cotswold Way National Trail Officer James Blockley Assistant Cotswold Way National Trail Officer Don Field Supported by over 350 voluntary wardens	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 popular educational and interactive video game featuring time-travelling hero Quantum Sheep is now in Cirencester and being hosted by the Corinium Museum.

‘Quantum Sheep and the Wonderful Wolds’, developed by the Cotswolds Conservation Board, is designed to introduce the concept of landscape change over time to 7-11 year olds. 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 Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and discovers the impact of man upon the landscape.

Primary school teachers visiting the museum 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.

The game is housed in a self-contained kiosk which has previously been located in other attractions including Bristol Zoo, the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust at Slimbridge and Stratford Leisure Centre.

Amanda Hart, Education Officer at the Corinium Museum said: “this is a wonderful addition to our computer interactives in the galleries, which will really add excitement and intrigue for pupils visiting us to study the past.”

ENDS
 

PHOTOGRAPH ATTACHED: Children from Springfield School, Worcester enjoying the Cotswolds interactive game at the Corinium Museum, Cirencester.

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.

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.
 

Hedgelayers of all levels are being called to take part in the annual North Cotswolds Hedgelaying Competition, organised by the Cotswolds Conservation Board, on Saturday 21st November.

The competition, which is part of the Board’s rural skills programme, involves four classes of competitor, from junior through to veteran, who will be battling it out for the prestigious hedgelaying trophy and cash prize.

Watched over by experts from the National Hedgelaying Society, participants will have to cut and lay a section of hedge up to 10 yards in length, depending on which class they belong. The hedge is to be laid in the Midland style and must be 3’ 6” in height.

Judging is made on a points basis, with points awarded for specific aspects of hedgelaying including cut and pleach, stake and heatherings, back of hedge and general appearance.

The draw for sections will take place at 8.40am and laying will commence at 9am. All hedgelaying will finish at 2pm when final judging will take place.

Competition organiser, Land Management Officer at the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Mark Connelly said: "Hedgerows are a prominent feature of the Cotswolds landscape and provide important wildlife habitats as well as mark historical boundaries such as parishes and manors. The hedgelaying competition, along with the hedgelaying courses that we offer, help to keep this traditional form of hedgerow management alive."

For further information on the competition and courses, and to register as a participant, please telephone the Cotswolds Conservation Board on 01451 862000, or visit www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1.   The competition is kindly supported by the National Hedgelaying Society.
2.   The competition takes place at Foss Cross alongside the Fosse Way between Northleach and Cirencester.
3.   Competition classes are described as follows :
    a. Class 1: Open: anyone with experience of hedgelaying.
    b. Class 2: Junior, Beginners and Novice. Juniors are to be under 21 years; Beginners are those who haven’t entered a competition before; Novices are those  who have not won this class before, or been placed in an Open or Veteran class.
    c. Class 3: Veterans: competitors who have reached their 60th birthday on or before the day of the competition.
    d. Class 4: Beginner pairs: any two people working on one section who have not entered a competition before.

4. Competition prizes are awarded as follows:
    a. Class 1 1st: Trophy and £50, 2nd: £30; 3rd: £15
    b. Class 2 1st: Trophy and £30, 2nd: £20, 3rd: £10
    c. Class 3 1st: Trophy and £40, 2nd: £25, 3rd: £15
    d. Class 4 1st: Trophy and £30 each, 2nd: £20 each, 3rd: £10 each

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.
 

Take a walk through the famous Enchanted Wood and see The National Arboretum lit up at night.  See Father Christmas plus lots of other festive excitement - carols from local choirs and bands, roast chestnuts and mulled wine plus a gift shop selling some fantastic gifts and decorations.  Now in its 15th year this event is attended by around 30,000 people each year.  A great event for all ages. 

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening from 27th November to 20th December.  No need to book, just turn up (no dogs please).  Normal admission charges apply.  Trail opens 5pm.  Last entry to car park 7.15 for last entry to the trail 7.30 pm.  Tel: 01666 880220 forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt

For the 2010 award, the winner will be have his/her travel, accommodation, and conference fees fully paid to attend the ‘Healthy Parks – Healthy People’ conference, April 2010, in Melbourne, Australia.

Nominations/applications are invited for/from: young people (under the age of 35) working in conservation and actively managing protected areas.

This includes all people working in protected areas, such as (but not limited to) rangers, interpreters, people working with local communities, policy makers, and scientists, and includes people working for government agencies, the private sector, non- government organizations, local communities, etc., who deal directly with protected area management and policy.

For more information on the Young Conservationist Award, including a link to the online application form, go to: www.georgewright.org/yca

The deadline for applications is 1 December 2009.

Honeybees and beekeepers are to benefit thanks to a grant awarded by the Cotswolds Conservation Board to the Evesham Beekeeping Association to establish a new branch apiary at Pershore College.

The £1,500 grant, awarded by the Board’s Sustainable Development Fund, will go towards the purchase of six new hives and provision of training for new and existing beekeepers. New beekeepers will be trained in the best practices of beekeeping, while a number of new projects will be set up for existing beekeepers, including Queen rearing to propagate for health and disease resistant strains of bees appropriate to local conditions, plus special disease recognition and treatment courses, overseen by Defra registered bee inspectors.

In support of the project is Pershore College, who is buying new hives and providing land, classroom and storage facilities for the new apiary. The project is also supported by Wychavon District Council, along with members of the Evesham Beekeeping Association who are donating bees and helping to prepare the site.

Chairman of the Evesham Beekeepers Association, Henry Dickinson, believes that the new apiary will offer a number of benefits including new and better skilled members plus healthier bees. He said: “Beekeeping is enormously popular at the moment and many local courses are often over-subscribed. We are very keen to encourage more people to take up beekeeping and enjoy the benefits, and we are therefore delighted to have been awarded this grant which will not only help to up-skill and develop our members, but ultimately it will enable us to develop new colonies of healthier honeybees.”
 

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. The Sustainable Development Fund is administered by the Cotswolds Conservation Board and supports projects that bring environmental, social and economic benefits to the Cotswolds AONB.
2. The Evesham Beekeeping Society is affiliated with the British Beekeepers Association and has 83 members, 8 of whom are under 18.
3. The Evesham Beekeeping Society covers an area from Mickleton/Broadway in the east to Eckington/Bredon in the west of the Cotswolds AONB.

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.

Our newest National Trail is so much more than a beautiful walk through one of the country's most stunning landscapes and largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  Whether enjoying a day out, a short break or a longer holiday you can use the Cotswold Way to explore the area's many attractions. There are charming villages, historic towns, distinctive stone buildings and inspiring countryside. Wherever you are, you will find interesting things to do and a warm welcome.

To inspire you further, a new 20-page colour brochure has been produced which highlights many of the most interesting features of the Trail and its surrounding area.

Download the brochure by clicking here, or request a hard copy by calling the Cotswolds Conservation Board on 01451 862000.

11 November 2009 at 7.30pm.

The lecture takes place at The Council Chamber, Cheltenham Ladies' College, Bayshill Road, Cheltenham.
Access only by several flights of stairs - no lift or ramp.

Tickets: £10 (GGLT members)  £12.50 (non-members) including glass of wine.

Tickets available from Sophie Piebenga at s.piebenga@btinternet.com (01285 885256) or Jane Bradney hvhac@aol.com (01989 750862)
www.gglt.org
 

1. The Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain was formed at the Gatehouse of Fleet in Galloway in 1968 to promote a greater understanding and knowledge about the traditional craft of dry stone walling and to encourage the repair and maintenance of dry stone walls throughout the country.
   
2. Competition classes are described as follows :
   
   • Class 1: Professional: anyone whose main earnings are derived from dry stone walling or who is regularly employed as a dry stone waller.
     
   • Class 2: Amateur: anyone deriving less than 50% of their earnings from dry stone walling or anyone regarding themselves as a competent dry stone waller.
     
   • Class 3: Novice: anyone with some experience of dry stone walling.
     
   • Class 4: Beginner pairs: any two people who have little experience of dry stone walling.
     
3. Competition prizes are awarded as follows:
   
   • Class 1 1st: Trophy and £120, 2nd: £80; 3rd: £60, 4th: £40
     
   • Class 2 1st: Trophy and £80, 2nd: £50, 3rd: £30
     
   • Class 3 1st: Trophy and £60, 2nd: £40, 3rd: £25
     
   • Class 4 1st: Trophy and £40 each, 2nd: £30 each, 3rd: £20 each
     
4. The Cotswolds Conservation Board organises a number of beginners’ courses in dry stone walling throughout the year, along with courses in hedgelaying and green woodworking.

Photograph: St Leonard's Church, Bledington © Copyright Anonymous 4610 and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.

New programme of Cotswolds guided walks announced

Reporting on the Board's activities since April 2009

Highlights

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 Andrew Morris Tom Pocklington	Project Development/Business Planning Officer Simon Smith Rural Skills & Grants Officer David Molloy (starts 8 February) Farmland Birds Officer Neil Harris Cotswold Way National Trail Officer James Blockley Assistant Cotswold Way National Trail Officer Don Field Supported by over 350 voluntary wardens	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 first of two brand new taster weekends for the traditional craft of thatching has taken place as part of the Cotswolds Conservation Board’s annual programme of rural skills courses.

The weekend course, which took place in Northleach, was attended by four participants who were taught the different types and styles of thatching as well as how to source materials and use thatching tools. Led by Ben Thomas, a Member of the National Society of Master Thatchers, the participants were shown the principles of thatching and were able to have a go themselves.

Commenting after the weekend, Ben Thomas said: "Thatching is a centuries old craft and there is a growing interest in people who want to find out more about it. These taster weekends are a great way for people to learn about the basics of thatching and have a go themselves.”

One of the participants on the course, Peter Gilbert from Foscot, Oxfordshire was very pleased with the course. He said: “I enjoyed it and learnt a lot. I think we all achieved more than we expected.”

A further taster weekend will take place on 15 & 16 August at Northleach.

For further details, telephone the Cotswolds Conservation Board on 01451 862000 or visit www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk.

ENDS

PHOTOGRAPH ATTACHED: Tutor Ben Thomas (pictured in foreground), with participants on the Cotswolds Conservation Board’s first thatching weekend.

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.

 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
www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

• The Cotswold Way National Trail is 102 miles (164 km) long, and runs for most of its length along the Cotswold escarpment.
• The Cotswold Way was formally launched as a National Trail in May 2007, although it had existed as a promoted long distance walk for over 30 years.   This designation is a very special one and there are only 14 other Trails in England and Wales with this special grading.
• The Trail's highest point is Cleeve Common at 317m (1,040ft).
• The Trail team is managed by the Cotswolds Conservation Board, based at Northleach.
• Funding for the management and promotion of the Trail is provided solely by Natural England.
• Highlights along the Trail include: World Heritage City of Bath; views over River Severn to Brecon Beacons in Wales, Malvern Hills and Forest of Dean; National Trust properties of Dyrham House and Horton Court; Broadway Tower and Somerset Monument tower follies; old mill towns of Painswick, Stroud & Dursley; Devils Chimney at Leckhampton Hill; Belas Knap Long Barrow; Sudeley Castle; and Hailes Abbey.

• 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.

From 28 to 31 August... Westonbirt Arboretum will be buzzing with activity. This world-class event has undergone a radical transformation - some exciting new additions have been made, there is a full programme of events, plus there's the return of some old favorites.

Talented sculptors take up their chainsaws and chisels from Monday 24 August in Sculptree. 

Exhibitree - our incredible woodcraft exhibition takes place from Friday 28 August, with everything from bespoke furniture and beautiful works of art to fantastic gift ideas.

Laboratree - for the first time this year at the Festival of the Tree, enter the Laboratree tipi and be a scientist for the day.

Family Tree - Tree-mendous activities for all in the Family Tree area and courtyard.

Plus there are Arena demonstrations, guided walks, workshops, specialist talks and an art exhibition. Come and visit the Cotswolds Conservation Board stand and find our more about the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

For further information and full event programme, go to www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswold Way National Trail is 102 miles (164 km) long, and runs for most of its length along the Cotswold escarpment.
• The Cotswold Way was formally launched as a National Trail in May 2007, although it had existed as a promoted long distance walk for over 30 years. This designation is a very special one and there are only 14 other Trails in England and Wales with this special grading.
• The Trail's highest point is Cleeve Common at 317m (1,040ft).
• The Trail team is managed by the Cotswolds Conservation Board, based at Northleach.
• Funding for the management and promotion of the Trail is provided solely by Natural England.
• Highlights along the Trail include: World Heritage City of Bath; views over River Severn to Brecon Beacons in Wales, Malvern Hills and Forest of Dean; National Trust properties of Dyrham House and Horton Court; Broadway Tower and Somerset Monument tower follies; old mill towns of Painswick, Stroud & Dursley; Devils Chimney at Leckhampton Hill; Belas Knap Long Barrow; Sudeley Castle; and Hailes Abbey. 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.

Niel, who is 79 and from Selsley has spent over 37 years contributing to the effective management, conservation and enjoyment of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the country’s largest AONB and one of the most best known and loved protected landscapes in the UK.

He was appointed as chairman to the board by the Secretary of State, Defra in 2004 when the organisation was being established. He was reappointed for a second term of office by the Secretary of State in 2007. Niel was elected the Board's first Chairman and has been re-elected as Chairman by his peers since then.

Having successfully steered the establishment of the board, leading 37 members appointed by the Secretary of State, the Local Authorities and Parish Councils, Niel has championed the interests of the AONB and board at the local, national and international level. Niel is also Chairman of the board's Executive Committee.

Prior to the establishment of the board, Niel was chairman of the Cotswolds AONB Partnership, the forerunner to the Conservation Board, between 1999 and 2004, Chairman of the former Cotswolds AONB Joint Advisory Committee (JAC) between 1998 and 1999 and represented the National Farmers Union (NFU) on the JAC from 1971.

“This is a great honour for me and one which I am delighted to accept. I am immensely proud of the work and commitment of all members, staff and volunteers at the Cotswolds Conservation Board in looking after the AONB. It is often a challenging, yet rewarding role and one which I look forward to continuing in future years.”
ENDS  

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

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, wildlife trusts, Butterfly Conservation, DEFRA, The Wychwood Forest Project and many local communities.
• The figure of £271,000 is derived from the Heritage Lottery Fund formula of £6.50 per volunteer hour. Cotswolds AONB fact file
• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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 full position statement, The Management of Roadside Verges, is available to download from the Cotswolds Conservation Board website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk. 
   

Cotswolds AONB fact file 

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

• 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, wildlife trusts, Butterfly Conservation, DEFRA, The Wychwood Forest Project and many local communities.
• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for 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 (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.
   
   

Beer-loving visitors to yesterday’s Sheep Fair at Shipston-on-Stour helped to raise funds to help preserve and enhance the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) thanks to a joint initiative between a local brewery and the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

North Cotswold Brewery recently joined forces with the Conservation Board by linking this month’s speciality beer with the Cotswolds AONB.

Money raised from the sale of ‘Sheep Town’, a full-flavoured pale bitter made from English hops, will go to the Friends of the Cotswolds who help to raise funds for a wide range of projects and programmes throughout the Cotswolds AONB.

Jon Pilling of North Cotswolds Brewery said: “We had excellent feedback from customers at yesterday’s fair about our beer. The Cotswolds is a very special area and we were delighted to us this opportunity to put something back into the local community.”

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• North Cotswold Brewery in Moreton-in-Marsh is a 10 barrel microbrewery situated at Ditchford Farm on the Gloucestershire/Warwickshire border. North Cotswold Brewery in Moreton-in-Marsh is a 10 barrel microbrewery situated at Ditchford Farm on the Gloucestershire/Warwickshire border.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the
Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation with 37 members,
15 nominated by local authorities, eight 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 largest of 40 AONBs
in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special
character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Nicola Greaves
Tel: 01451 862003 Email: nicola.greaves@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
(Please go to the press releases section of our website for more news stories)

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

Set in the beautiful surroundings of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the new weekend courses offer an ideal opportunity for either complete beginners wishing to become familiar with the basic tools and techniques of green woodwork, or those looking to brush up their skills.

Starting with a freshly felled tree, trainees will learn about the traditional skill of coppicing and then be shown how to cleave the wood with axes and wedges, and shape it further with drawknives before turning it on the pole-lathe. They will also learn what to look for when buying tools, how to sharpen them, what woods are best to use, and more. Participants can expect to leave with a stool or several turned items such as candlesticks, spoons, tool-handles, baby-rattles, rounders bat or a project of their choice.

The courses form part of this year’s brand new programme of traditional skills courses being offered by the Cotswolds Conservation Board, which also includes thatching, hedge-laying and dry stone walling.

DETAILS OF COURSES:

GREEN WOOD WORKING (POLE LATHING) COPPICE COURSES & HURDLE MAKING

The courses will make the connection between coppice work and using a pole lathe to make products produced from the wood from the coppice work.

Location: Sherborne by kind agreement of the National Trust

• 10 & 11 October

• 24 & 25 October

Hurdle making courses will also be held on the same dates as the above and at the same location but will be treated as separate courses.

The cost of each course is £80 - for more information and to check the availability of the course you would like to book on, please telephone 01451 862000.

Click here to download Rural Skills Application Form

Rattles, rakes, rolling pins and gate hurdles are just some of the many items that can be made on the new green woodworking course offered by the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

Set in the beautiful surroundings of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the new weekend courses offer an ideal opportunity for either complete beginners wishing to become familiar with the basic tools and techniques of green woodwork, or those looking to brush up their skills.

Starting with a freshly felled tree, trainees will learn about the traditional skill of coppicing and then be shown how to cleave the wood with axes and wedges, and shape it further with drawknives before turning it on the pole-lathe. They will also learn what to look for when buying tools, how to sharpen them, what woods are best to use, and more. Participants can expect to leave with a stool or several turned items such as candlesticks, spoons, tool-handles, baby-rattles, rounders bat or a project of their choice.

The courses form part of this year’s brand new programme of traditional skills courses being offered by the Cotswolds Conservation Board, which also includes thatching, hedge-laying and dry stone walling.

For full details of all courses offered please call the Cotswolds Conservation Board on 01451 862000 or go to: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk.

ENDS 

GREEN WOODWORKING (POLE LATHING) AND HURDLE MAKING: The courses will make the connection between coppice work and using a pole lathe to make products produced from the wood from the coppice work. Separate courses for hurdle making take place at the same time and place. Location and Course dates: Sherborne 10 & 11 October Sherborne 24 & 25 October

 HEDGELAYING: Trainees will be taught basic skills including clearing, trimming, cutting and laying the pleacher, staking and binding. Location and course dates: Andoversford 28 & 29 November Tetbury 5 & 6 December Rissington 23 & 24 January Rissington 6 & 7 February

Hedgelayers from across the UK took part the North Cotswolds Hedgelaying competition on Saturday 15th November at Foss Cross on the A429 between Northleach and Cirencester. The event was held courtesy of Calmsden Farms.

Competitors from across the UK competed in four classes, designed to match their abilities; Open, Junior Beginners and Novice, Veteran, and Beginners pairs.

This year's winners were: Open - Stephen Budding, Junior and Beginners Guy Robins, Veteran-Peter Flint and Beginners Pairs - David Lee & Richard Lane.

Organiser Mark Connelly said:

"Taking part in the competition is a great confidence booster, especially if you

are relatively new to hedgelaying. It is also a tried and tested way for more experienced hedgelayers to really get competitive.

"In all, the competition is a really good way of keeping the skill of hedgelaying

alive and the enthusiasm and energy that is displayed at these events

clearly goes to show that it is by no means a 'dying art".

Hedgelaying courses take place across the winter. Click here to find out more.

During his visit to Milton Downs Farm near Burford in West Oxfordshire, David Cameron was shown how the organisation that exists to conserve and enhance the Cotswolds AONB, the Cotswolds Conservation Board is working to encourage the development of rural skills in the area, in this case drystone walling.

Spokesperson for the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Claire Cunningham said:

"The board was delighted to be able to show David Cameron how great efforts are being made in the Cotswolds to ensure that the rural skill of drystone walling is maintained.

He had the opportunity to meet young drystone walling students who are training on a course that is run by the board in partnership with Abingdon and Witney College.

Many of the drystone walls in the Cotswolds need to be repaired and we know that rural skills are in decline in the AONB, so there is a real need for the board to support and foster drystone walling skills."

The trainees that David Cameron met learnt to wall at Milton Downs Farm and qualified with a nationally recognised LANTRA drystone walling certificate. Eleven students have just started on a new course that will run until March 2009. This is the fourth course that the board has run in partnership with Abingdon and Witney College and so far 25 students have gained LANTRA level two drystone walling qualifications. .

The student placements on the course are sponsored by the Cotswolds Conservation Board through a Leader + grant fund awarded by West Oxfordshire District Council.

This is part of a range of rural skills work operated by the board. In September and November there are annual drystone walling and hedgelaying competitions, attracting competitors from across the country. Throughout the year there are weekend walling and hedgelaying training courses for the general public.

Click here to find out more about conservation work in the Cotswolds

Prestigious awards donated by His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales were awarded at this year’s Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Drystone Walling Competition.

The contest, took place at Prestons Folly, Broadfield Farm near Tetbury on Sunday 5th October and was run by the Cotswolds Conservation Board in partnership with the Cotswold branch of the Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain.

Competitors had the chance to enter one of four classes: class one - professional, class two - amateur, class three - novice and class four - beginner pairs.

The winner of the professional class was Andrew Mason from Cumbria, the amateur title was taken by Andy Deller from Oxfordshire, Phillip Sexton from Warwickshire was the winner of the novice class and Pete Egan and Conall Davies also from Warwickshire won the beginner pairs class.

Organiser, Mark Connelly from the Cotswolds Conservation Board said:

Download Drystone walling competition results

Ancient settlements, an Iron Age hill fort and the wonderful autumn colours of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) are all waiting to be discovered during the October half term break.

The Cotswolds Conservation Board is providing a programme of short family strolls across the AONB, which are designed to provide families with the chance to get out and about over the school holidays.

“The walks will provide an ideal opportunity for families to find out more about the countryside around them and to enjoy the autumn colours in the Cotswolds” said Dave Scott, one of the Cotswolds Conservation Board’s 340 Voluntary Wardens.

The strolls are led by voluntary wardens and representatives of a range of local conservation organisations and are ideal for younger members of the family. Covering short distances at an easy pace, each walk focuses on a particular theme, such as wildlife or woodlands.

It is all part of a wider walks programme that can be found in the Cotswold Conservation Board’s newspaper, The Cotswold Lion.

Visit pages 8-11 of the online version of the Lion for the walks listings (half term walks are highlighted in pink and bear a family logo), or pick a copy of the Cotswold Lion up from your local Tourist Information Centre / library.

Unfortunately due to the nature of the walks, dogs will not be allowed.

Dates and times are also listed in the leaflet below.

Download Half term walks leaflet

Download

The Cotswolds Conservation Board is providing a programme of short family strolls across the AONB, which are designed to provide families with the chance to get out and about over the school holidays.

"The walks will provide an ideal opportunity for families to find out more about the countryside around them and to enjoy the autumn colours in the Cotswolds" said Dave Scott, one of the Cotswolds Conservation Board's 340 Voluntary Wardens.

The strolls are led by voluntary wardens and representatives of a range of local conservation organisations and are ideal for younger members of the family. Covering short distances at an easy pace, each walk focuses on a particular theme, such as wildlife or woodlands.

It is all part of a wider walks programme that can be found in the Cotswold Conservation Board's newspaper, The Cotswold Lion.

Visit pages 8-11 of the online version of the Lion for the walks listings (half term walks are highlighted in pink and bear a family logo), or pick a copy of the Cotswold Lion up from your local Tourist Information Centre / library.

Unfortunately due to the nature of the walks, dogs will not be allowed.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• Please refer to the separate flyer sent to you alongside this press release for dates and times of walks. The full walks listings in the Cotswold Lion newspaper are available online at or available on request from the Conservation Board Offices. Tel: 01451 862000. The walks are also listed in the 'Enjoying the Cotswolds' section of our website at www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

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

Contact: Becky Jones / Claire Cunningham Tel: 01451 862000

Cotswolds Conservation Board, Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH. Tel: 01451 862000

Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The Cotswolds Conservation Board runs a programme of themed and guided half term walks for all the family.

[add link to walk here]Click here to find out more.

A 300 strong band of volunteers have taken part in an event to celebrate their 40th anniversary. The Cotswold Voluntary Wardens were established in 1968 and have spent the past four decades working to conserve the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

The private celebration was held at the Royal Agricultural College in Cirencester, on Saturday June 21st.

The wardens heard from The Lord Plumb of Coleshill DL FRAgs, the patron of the organisation that exists to conserve the Cotswolds AONB, the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

Baroness Young of Old Scone, who was the Chief Executive of the Environment Agency until May 2008, also gave an address.

Spokesperson for the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Claire Cunningham said:

“This event was the highlight of the warden’s celebrations to mark their 40th anniversary, and a sincere acknowledgement of the years of dedication and effort that they have put into helping to conserve the Cotswolds AONB. Some of the guests who attended the event have been wardens from the start and have spent the last 40 years working on the ground to ensure that the area is looked after properly.”

The wardens marked their 40th anniversary in a range of other ways during the last week of May. They: led 20 local walks in north Cotswold towns and villages including Stow and Blockley; launched ‘Walks on Wheels’ a collection of 15 walks across the Cotswolds for wheelchair, buggy and power scooter users; and led a walk where the public had a chance to see a wardens work party in action on Minchinhampton Common.

The wardens are also leading a range of 40th anniversary walks across the summer, which can be found in a walks listings directory in the Cotswold Lion Newspaper, available at most libraries and tourist information centres in the AONB. There is also a walks listing section on our website. Click here to find out more.

Click here to find out more.

The organisation that exists to conserve and enhance the AONB, the Cotswolds Conservation Board runs two-day drystone walling and hedgelaying courses where participants can learn all the basics.

Staff can book onto existing courses taking place this year or courses can be tailored to suit an individual organisation.

Spokesperson for the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Claire Cunningham said;

"It is a great way to help a team work well together and bond, as this is a learning activity that everyone can participate in together.

The main reason why the board runs these rural skills courses is because it is committed to reversing the decline in the number of people in the area who know how to repair a drystone wall or lay a hedge, but we also have a duty to encourage people to understand and enjoy the area and this is a perfect opportunity for businesses to enable their staff to get out into the open air of the Cotswolds and do just that."

Equipment is provided, participants just need to wear suitable clothing and organise lunch / refreshments. For more information please call 01451 862000.

Ends

Notes to editors:

Click here to see a leaflet on the board's rural skills courses and competitions

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the

Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members,

17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 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 largest of 40 AONBs

in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special

character are conserved.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

(Please go to the press releases section of our website for more news stories)

Cotswolds Conservation Board

Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000

Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The wardens are the voluntary arm of the organisation that exists to oversee the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the Cotswolds Conservation Board and have offered this service, which they call 'Kids Out' in the northern part of the AONB, for many years. They work with various schools in and near the Cotswolds, to give youngsters with special needs hands-on contact with live animals.

This year 19 children aged 7-11 from the Alderman Knight School were treated to a morning snack before meeting baby chicks, rabbits and guinea pigs, then watching a cow being milked.

They then traced their way in and out of a Cotswold maze, and clambered through a woodland safari, meeting various traditional breeds of animals and birds before having a picnic lunch.

During a trailer tour of the whole farm park in the afternoon they spotted two ginger piglets that had escaped from their compound and were proud to report their find to the farm manager.

"Today was an eye-opener for our children," said school teacher Hannah Silverthorn. "They'll be talking about it non-stop for weeks."

Cotswold Wardens North District chairman Robin Cochrane led the team of six wardens who accompanied the children and their teachers.

"We are delighted to offer this service. It's part of our job to extend the understanding of the landscape to everyone, young and old. And the wardens themselves find the contact with these children a moving and satisfying experience."

Ends

Notes to editors:

• A photograph has been issued with this press release. More exist. Please contact us if you would like to see them. Tel: Claire Cunningham - 01451 862003

• 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, wildlife trusts, Butterfly Conservation, DEFRA, The Wychwood Forest Project and many local communities.

• The Cotswold Voluntary Wardens were formed in 1968 and are celebrating their 40th Anniversary this year.

• There are 340 Cotswold Voluntary Wardens, part of the Cotswolds Conservation Board. The wardens have been leading guided walks in the AONB since 1975.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

(Please go to the press releases section of our website for more news stories)

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The wardens are the voluntary arm of the organisation that exists to oversee the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the Cotswolds Conservation Board and have offered this service, which they call 'Kids Out' in the northern part of the AONB, for many years. They work with various schools in and near the Cotswolds, to give youngsters with special needs hands-on contact with live animals.

This year, 19 children aged 7-11 from the Alderman Knight School were treated to a morning snack before meeting baby chicks, rabbits and guinea pigs, then watching a cow being milked.

They then traced their way in and out of a Cotswold maze, and clambered through a woodland safari, meeting various traditional breeds of animals and birds before having a picnic lunch.

During a trailer tour of the whole farm park in the afternoon they spotted two ginger piglets that had escaped from their compound and were proud to report their find to the farm manager.

"Today was an eye-opener for our children," said school teacher Hannah Silverthorn. "They'll be talking about it non-stop for weeks."

Cotswold Wardens North District chairman Robin Cochrane led the team of six wardens who accompanied the children and their teachers.

"We are delighted to offer this service. It's part of our job to extend the understanding of the landscape to everyone, young and old. And the wardens themselves find the contact with these children a moving and satisfying experience."

The private celebration was held at the Royal Agricultural College in Cirencester, on Saturday June 21st.

The wardens heard from The Lord Plumb of Coleshill DL FRAgs, the patron of the organisation that exists to conserve the Cotswolds AONB, the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

Baroness Young of Old Scone, who was the Chief Executive of the Environment Agency until May 2008, also gave an address.

Spokesperson for the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Claire Cunningham said:

"This event was the highlight of the warden's celebrations to mark their 40th anniversary, and a sincere acknowledgement of the years of dedication and effort that they have put into helping to conserve the Cotswolds AONB. Some of the guests who attended the event have been wardens from the start and have spent the last 40 years working on the ground to ensure that the area is looked after properly."

The wardens marked their 40th anniversary in a range of other ways during the last week of May. They: led 20 local walks in north Cotswold towns and villages including Stow and Blockley; launched 'Walks on Wheels' a collection of 15 walks across the Cotswolds for wheelchair, buggy and power scooter users; and led a walk where the public had a chance to see a wardens work party in action on Minchinhampton Common.

The wardens are also leading a range of 40th anniversary walks across the summer, which can be found in a walks listings directory in the Cotswold Lion Newspaper, available at most libraries and tourist information centres in the AONB. There is also a walks listing section on our website. Click here to find out more.

The press are invited to attend the private celebration, which will be held at the Royal Agricultural College in Cirencester, on Saturday June 21st at 11am. (Boutflour Hall).

The wardens will hear from The Lord Plumb of Coleshill DL FRAgs, the patron of the organisation that exists to conserve the Cotswolds AONB, the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

Baroness Young of Old Scone, who was the Chief Executive of the Environment Agency until May 2008, will also give an address.

Spokesperson for the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Claire Cunningham said:

"This event is the highlight of the warden's celebrations to mark their 40th anniversary, and will be a sincere acknowledgement of the years of dedication and effort that they have put into helping to conserve the Cotswolds AONB. Some of the guests who will be attending the event have been wardens from the start and have spent the last 40 years working on the ground to ensure that the area is looked after properly."

The wardens marked their 40th anniversary in a range of other ways during the last week of May. They: led 20 local walks in north Cotswold towns and villages including Stow and Blockley; launched 'Walks on Wheels' a collection of 15 walks across the Cotswolds for wheelchair, buggy and power scooter users; and led a walk where the public had a chance to see a wardens work party in action on Minchinhampton Common.

The wardens are also leading a range of 40th anniversary walks across the summer, which can be found in a walks listings directory in the Cotswold Lion Newspaper, available at most libraries and tourist information centres in the AONB. There is also a walks listing section on our website at www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk.

Ends

Notes to editors:

Contacts:

Rebecca Jones: 01451 862008

Mobile: 07841 663602

Over the past 40 years, the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens have achieved a great deal:

 1975 - Guided walks programme established - it continues to this day with over 300 walks a year.

 1976 - Drought in Britain. Participants on walks requested not to smoke for fear of fire.

 1980s - Wardens won two awards for their work. The Tidy Britain Award for their 'Clean up the Cotswolds' campaign and the Carnegie Interpret Britain Award for audio visual presentations on their work.

 1981 - Over 400 people attended Prestbury village guided walk.

 1991 - The Wardens Way and Windrush Way were created by wardens.

 1990s - Wardens work to create easy access (stile free) routes and lead wheelchair walks

 1993 - 25th anniversary celebration held at Royal Agricultural College.

 2001 - Wardens create an alternative Town and Village walks programme to allow visitors to continue to enjoy the AONB despite Foot and Mouth restrictions.

Cotswolds AONB fact file

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the

Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members,

17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 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 largest of 40 AONBs

in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special

character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

(Please go to the press releases section of our website for more news stories)

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

A commercial waste workshop, suitable for pubs, restaurants, tea shops, tourism accommodation and attractions will take place on 3rd June at 10.30am at the West Oxfordshire District Council Offices in Witney.

The workshop is being run as part of the Cotswolds Green Tourism Project run by the Cotswolds Conservation Board in partnership with West Oxfordshire District Council, which encourages tourism businesses in west Oxfordshire to work towards finding a more environmentally friendly way of running their business.

A number of bed and breakfasts, hotels and holiday cottages in the west Oxfordshire area are already signed up to the scheme and have made a decisive commitment to altering the way that they run their business, to ensure that they are operating in a more sustainable and environmentally friendly manner.

The commercial waste workshop is open to any business in the west Oxfordshire area that wants to know more about ways in which they can improve their environmental credentials by recycling waste effectively.

Green Tourism Officer for the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Sue Perry said;

"This is a great way for businesses to take stock and address the way that they currently recycle their waste. In many cases there is a lot that can be done to ensure that a business's waste disposal practices are more sustainable and less damaging to the environment and we would like to encourage as many tourism businesses as possible, to take part."

Commercial Waste Officer, Jon Dowell, from West Oxfordshire District Council will be on hand at the workshop to explain commercial waste and discuss the existing commercial recycling schemes available and a representative from Oxfordshire County Council will also be available to talk about the importance of reusing, recycling and reducing waste.

One to one waste reduction strategy meetings with Oxfordshire County Council can be arranged on the day, to ensure that individual businesses waste requirements can be discussed in more detail. To book a place or find out more, please contact Sue Perry, Green Tourism Officer at the Cotswolds Conservation Board on 01451 862000.

sue.perry@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Ends

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds Green Tourism Project is managed by the Cotswolds Conservation Board in partnership with West Oxfordshire District Council. The project is part financed by the Cotswolds Conservation Board, European Community: West Oxfordshire Network LEADER + 2000-2006 and the South East of England Regional Development Agency. For more information about the project please click here to visit the green tourism section of our website.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the17 local authorities within the AONB.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

(Please go to the press releases section of our website for more news stories)

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

A new project team has been formed to oversee the trail. James Blockley is the new National Trail Officer and will be working alongside Don Field who has moved across from the old team

Walking along the Cotswold Way National Trail is an ideal way to experience the breathtaking landscape of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The 102 mile (164km) trail follows the Cotswolds escarpment with its stunning views and picturesque villages from the market town of Chipping Campden in the north, to Bath in the south. It has been promoted as a long-distance walking route for over 30 years and after an eight year programme of access improvement work, funded by Natural England, it became a National Trail in 2007.

Janette Ward, Regional Director for Natural England in the South West welcomed the Cotswold Way's move to its new home:

"Natural England's remit to conserve and enhance the natural environment alongside increasing peoples enjoyment and understanding of it was a key factor in inviting the Cotswolds Conservation Board to host the new trail team. This is an excellent opportunity to take forward England's newest National Trail."

The Cotswold Voluntary Wardens, along with the volunteers that are devoted to the Cotswold Way, gave up their time to help with the improvement works that took place to ensure that the route was up to National Trail standards before its launch last year. They are integral to the ongoing maintenance and enhancement of the trail and are always looking for help. If you are interested in doing your bit for the Cotswold Way, contact the team on 01451 826034

'Walks on Wheels' is a collection of 15 walks descriptions and maps, which help people to explore quiet country paths, villages and market towns in the area.

The project was devised by the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens to mark their 40th Anniversary and the walks are located across the Cotswolds AONB, which is a 790 square mile landscape, stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and West Oxfordshire down to west Wiltshire and the area around Bath in the south.

Members of the public can chose from 15 'walking' experiences such as a route that takes in the highest point in the Cotswolds at Cleeve Common just outside Cheltenham, or two pleasant routes alongside canals in the south of the AONB.

All of the routes have been tested by disability and access groups from across the Cotswolds and have been carefully chosen to ensure that they are appropriate for users. The walks are available to download on the Cotswolds AONB website at www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Phil Hughes, Chairman of Stroud & District Access Group said:

"I am delighted that we were given the opportunity to be involved from the outset with the project."

Access Group member Pam said:

"Being a wheelchair user, this is great because now with walks on wheels I am able to go with my grandchildren to the countryside and join in, and with the publication of these walks being readily available, all members of the family will now be able to participate together."

Organised mother and toddler, disability and walking groups are encouraged to contact the Cotswolds Conservation Board and request the walks pack. Tel: 01451 862000

The project which was devised by the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens to mark their 40th Anniversary will be launched on the Badminton Estate by the Duchess of Beaufort at 11am on Friday 23rd May.

The walks are located across the Cotswolds AONB, which is a 790 square mile landscape, stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and West Oxfordshire down to west Wiltshire and the area around Bath in the south.

Members of the public can chose from 15 'walking' experiences such as a route that takes in the highest point in the Cotswolds at Cleeve Common just outside Cheltenham, or two pleasant routes alongside canals in the south of the AONB.

All of the routes have been tested by disability and access groups from across the Cotswolds and have been carefully chosen to ensure that they are appropriate for users. The walks are available to download on the Cotswolds AONB website at www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Phil Hughes, Chairman of Stroud & District Access Group said:

"I am delighted that we were given the opportunity to be involved from the outset with the project."

Access Group member Pam said:

"Being a wheelchair user, this is great because now with walks on wheels I am able to go with my grandchildren to the countryside and join in, and with the publication of these walks being readily available, all members of the family will now be able to participate together."

Organised mother and toddler, disability and walking groups are encouraged to contact the Cotswolds Conservation Board and request the walks pack.

Ends

Notes to editors:

Click here to download the walks from our website.

• The press are welcome to attend the launch and there will be a photo opportunity at 11am. Please come to the Badminton Estate Office, Badminton, Gloucestershire. GL9 1DD.

(The office is located in the village of Badminton.) For further information please contact Claire Cunningham on 01451 862003 / 0778 6995869.

• 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, wildlife trusts, Butterfly Conservation, DEFRA, The Wychwood Forest Project and many local communities.

• The Cotswold Voluntary Wardens were formed in 1968 and are celebrating their 40th Anniversary this year. In addition to the Walks on Wheels project, they will also be marking the event with parish walks in the north Cotswolds, family-focused walks across the area, a public conservation work party in the south and a special event to mark the Anniversary at the Royal Agricultural College in June. A further press release will be issued in due course.

• There are 340 Cotswold Voluntary Wardens, part of the Cotswolds Conservation Board. The wardens have been leading guided walks in the AONB since 1975.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

A new project team has been formed to oversee the trail. James Blockley is the new National Trail Officer and will be working alongside Don Field who has moved across from the old team

Walking along the Cotswold Way National Trail is an ideal way to experience the breathtaking landscape of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The 102 mile (164km) trail follows the Cotswolds escarpment with its stunning views and picturesque villages from the market town of Chipping Campden in the north, to Bath in the south. It has been promoted as a long-distance walking route for over 30 years and after an eight year programme of access improvement work ,funded by Natural England, it became a National Trail in 2007.

Janette Ward, Regional Director for Natural England in the South West welcomed the Cotswold Way's move to its new home:

"Natural England's remit to conserve and enhance the natural environment alongside increasing peoples enjoyment and understanding of it was a key factor in inviting the Cotswolds Conservation Board to host the new trail team. This is an excellent opportunity to take forward England's newest National Trail."

The Cotswold Voluntary Wardens, along with the volunteers that are devoted to the Cotswold Way, gave up their time to help with the improvement works that took place to ensure that the route was up to National Trail standards before its launch last year. They are integral to the ongoing maintenance and enhancement of the trail and are always looking for help. If you are interested in doing your bit for the Cotswold Way, contact the team on 01451 826034

For more information on the Cotswold Way, visit www.nationaltrail.co.uk

Ends

Notes to editors:

• National Trails (originally know as "long distance routes") came about through the same legislation that designates National Parks (the 1949 National Parks & Access to the Countryside Act). They are the "flagship" long distance routes in England and Wales offering some of the best walking, riding and cycling experiences in the country. Each trail has a dedicated manager who insures that the route and the information supporting it is maintained to the highest standards.

• The Cotswold Way is a new National Trail funded by Natural England and managed by the Cotswold Conservation Board in partnership with Bath & North East Somerset Council, South Gloucestershire Council, Gloucestershire County Council and Worcestershire County Council. It is a long distance walking trail that runs between the market town of Chipping Campden in the north and the World Heritage City of Bath in the south. The Trail is 102 miles (164 km) long, and runs for most of its length on the Cotswold escarpment with its stunning views, picturesque villages and sites of historical interest. The Cotswold Way has existed as a promoted long distance walk for over 30 years. Following many years of lobbying by the Ramblers Association and others, its special qualities have been recognised; in 1998 the government approved its development as a National Trail, and in May 2007 it was formally launched as a National Trail. The trail attracts large numbers of local, national and international visitors every year, and plays a key part in the protection and understanding of the Cotswold landscape. For more information please contact the Cotswold Way National Trail Officer, James Blockley on 01451 862034.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• With its rolling hills and valleys the Cotswolds is the largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

• Natural England works for people, places and nature to conserve and enhance biodiversity, landscapes and wildlife in rural, urban, coastal and marine areas. We conserve and enhance the natural environment for its intrinsic value, the wellbeing and enjoyment of people, and the economic prosperity it brings. For further information about Natural England please visit: www.naturalengland.org.uk or contact Paul Wynne at the Natural England press office on 07900 608049

Contact: James Blockley Tel: 01451 862034 or

Claire Cunningham Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswold Way National Trail &

Cotswolds Conservation Board

Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000

Websites: www.nationaltrail.co.uk

www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The Cotswolds Conservation Board is providing a programme of ten short family strolls across the AONB, which are designed to provide families with the opportunity to get out and about over the school holidays.

"The walks will provide an ideal opportunity for families to find out more about the countryside around them and to enjoy the summer colours in the Cotswolds" said Dave Scott, one of the Cotswolds Conservation Board's 340 Voluntary Wardens.

The strolls are ideal for younger members of the family and will cover short distances at an easy pace. Each walk focuses on a particular theme, such as wildlife or woodlands, which walks leaders will discuss with the public along the route.

It is all part of a wider walks programme that can be found in the Cotswold Conservation Board's newspaper, The Cotswold Lion.

Visit pages 10, 11 and 12 of the online version of the Lion for the walks listings (half term walks are highlighted in pink and bear a family logo), or pick a copy of the Cotswold Lion up from your local library or Tourist Information Centre.

Unless pre-booking is indicated, just turn up at the starting point and take part. Some walks are categorised as easy or moderate.

Unfortunately due to the nature of the walks, dogs will not be allowed.

Click here to find a simple online listing of the walks

The Cotswolds Conservation Board is providing a programme of ten short family strolls across the AONB, which are designed to provide families with the opportunity to get out and about over the school holidays.

"The walks will provide an ideal opportunity for families to find out more about the countryside around them and to enjoy the summer colours in the Cotswolds" said Dave Scott, one of the Cotswolds Conservation Board's 340 Voluntary Wardens.

The strolls are ideal for younger members of the family and will cover short distances at an easy pace. Each walk focuses on a particular theme, such as wildlife or woodlands, which walks leaders will discuss with the public along the route.

It is all part of a wider walks programme that can be found in the Cotswold Conservation Board's newspaper, The Cotswold Lion.

Visit pages 10, 11 and 12 of the online version of the Lion for the walks listings (half term walks are highlighted in pink and bear a family logo), or pick a copy of the Cotswold Lion up from your local library or Tourist Information Centre.

Unless pre-booking is indicated, just turn up at the starting point and take part. Some walks are categorised as easy or moderate.

Unfortunately due to the nature of the walks, dogs will not be allowed.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The full walks listings in the Cotswold Lion newspaper are available online at www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk or on request from the Conservation Board Offices. Tel: 01451 862000.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

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

• Over 340 Voluntary Wardens give their time to conserve and enhance the Cotswolds AONB. In 2005 Wardens gave over 34,000 hours of their time.

Contact: Becky Jones / Claire Cunningham Tel: 01451 862000

Cotswolds Conservation Board, Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH. Tel: 01451 862000

Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Walks listing:

Saturday May 24 • 10.00

Lineover and Ravensgate

Spring flowers in ancient woodland and on Cotswold grassland. Suitable for families but includes a steep climb.

Easy

Starting Point: Lineover Wood. Parking available on track south of A40 1 mile east of Charlton Kings and 100 yards east of Reservoir Inn.

Leaders: John Heathcott, John Woodland

3 hours • 4 miles

Explorer: 179/986196

Saturday May 24 • 14.30

A tour of the beautiful and historic town of Chipping Campden

A guided walk along some of Campden's beautiful streets with an explanation of the history of the town houses. Suitable for families.

Easy

Starting Point: Chipping Campden Market Hall

Leader: Ann Colcomb

1.5 hours • 1.5 miles

OS Leisure: 45/152392

Sunday May 25 • 12.00

Sights and Sounds

Tour of Rodborough Common. Cost: £3. Booking essential on 01452 814213.

Moderate

Starting Point: Meet at Rodborough Fort car park

Leader: Matt Stanway (National Trust)

3 hours • 2 miles

SO: 851040

Sunday May 25 • 14.00

Discovering Fungi

A woodland walk looking at a variety of fungi and tree species.

Easy

Starting Point: Foxholes reserve car park

Leaders: Dave Scott and Martin Barnsley

2 hours • 2 miles

SP: 258208

Tuesday May 27 • 10.00

When Dinosaurs Roamed the Land

The walk will explore the geology and landscape of the village and its surrounding area, and will investigate the ancient past of the Cotswolds, when dinosaurs roamed the land and giant reptiles swam the seas. Easy

Starting Point: Burford: Church Lane car park

Leader: Bob Marchant of Oxfordshire Geology Trust

2 hours • 3.5 miles

SP: 254122

Wednesday May 28 • 10.00

Dale's Tales - a farmer's secrets

Hear about country life in the north Cotswolds from Bourton-on-the-Hill farmer Robin Dale. A very short, easy walk suitable for young and old. Easy

Starting Point: From the A44 above Bourton-on-the-Hill, take the B4479 (signed Blockley). After 300 yards take the first right turn and look out for the WALK STARTS HERE sign

Leaders: Mike Matthews and Stephen Wright

2 hours • 1 mile

OL: 45/169331

Wednesday May 28 • 10.00

Village to Village

Circular walk from Luckington to Sherston crossing River Avon and back. Suitable for families. Pubs at Luckington and Sherston

Easy

Starting Point: Luckington Green

Leaders: Virginia Rawlings, Ted Thornton

3 hours • 4.5 miles

OS: 173/833839

Friday May 30 • 14.00

The Edge of the Cotswolds

A geological walk along the important Crickley Hill Escarpment, looking at the geology of the area and answering questions such as: why don't the Cotswolds extend to the Forest of Dean and did dinosaurs walk the area? Moderate

Starting Point: Crickley Hill Country Park. Meet at visitors' centre.

Leader: Hellen O'Connor - Gloucestershire Geology Trust

2 hours • 2 miles

SO: 929163

Saturday May 31 • 10.30

Marshfield - Town & Country

A morning walk along the High Street of this small medieval market town to the Almshouses, then taking bridleways south to Ashwicke and returning through the fields on footpaths (only kissing gates). Lunch choice of 3 pubs or a teashop - or stay and visit our Open Gardens and enjoy a cream tea. Easy

Starting Point: Market Place, Marshfield

Leader: David Colbourne

2.5 hours • 4 miles

OS: Landranger 172/781737

Sunday June 1 • 10.00

Galloway's Galore

See the newly born calves from the National Trust's Belted Galloway herd. Booking essential on 01452 814213. Adults £1.50, children free.

Moderate

Starting Point: The Ebworth Estate

Leader: Matt Stanway (National Trust)

1.5 hours • 1.5 miles

SO: 914114

There are a whole host of events that bring local colour to traditional Cotswold settings, from cheese rolling on Coopers Hill near Brockworth and the Tetbury Woolsack Races to Dover's Hill Games and the Bourton Water Game.

Spokesperson for the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Claire Cunningham said:

"The board works to encourage people to understand and enjoy the Cotswolds AONB and taking part or being a spectator at these events helps to strengthen an awareness of the distinct qualities of the area. It reinforces the fact that the AONB has a special character, which is worth maintaining.

There are so many interesting and unusual things that take place at these events such as the Painswick Ancient Clypping Ceremony in September. The community joins hands and forms a giant circle all the way around the church. A tradition that must have fostered community spirit for many hundreds of years, since it's inception in 1321, and still does today."

Click here to view the calendar or call and request a paper copy. Tel: 01451 862003

There are a whole host of events that bring local colour to traditional Cotswold settings, from cheese rolling on Coopers Hill near Brockworth and the Tetbury Woolsack Races to Dover's Hill Games and the Bourton Water Game.

Spokesperson for the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Claire Cunningham said:

"The board works to encourage people to understand and enjoy the Cotswolds AONB and taking part or being a spectator at these events helps to strengthen an awareness of the distinct qualities of the area. It reinforces the fact that the AONB has a special character, which is worth maintaining.

There are so many interesting and unusual things that take place at these events such as the Painswick Ancient Clypping Ceremony in September. The community joins hands and forms a giant circle all the way around the church. A tradition that must have fostered community spirit for many hundreds of years, since it's inception in 1321, and still does today."

You can find a copy of the calendar in the events section of the Cotswolds AONB website at www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk or call and request a paper copy. Tel: 01451 862003

Ends

Notes to editors:

• Click here to see the events chart.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the

Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members,

17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 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 largest of 40 AONBs

in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special

character are conserved.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswold Way National Trail &

Cotswolds Conservation Board

Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000

Websites: www.nationaltrail.co.uk

www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

There are a whole host of events that bring local colour to traditional Cotswold settings, from cheese rolling on Coopers Hill near Brockworth and the Tetbury Woolsack races to Dover's Hill Games and the Bourton Water Game.

The five-year plan has been produced by the organisation that exists to conserve and enhance the AONB, the Cotswolds Conservation Board. The board has two statutory purposes; to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the AONB and to increase public understanding and enjoyment of the area. In fulfilling these roles, the board also seeks to foster the social and economic wellbeing of people living in the Cotswolds.

Designed as a guide for local authorities, statutory agencies and other bodies such as businesses and individuals working within the AONB, the new management plan covers a wide range of issues that affect the Cotswolds such as; development and transport, rural land management, natural resources, biodiversity and the historic environment. There are also three key issues that influence the whole plan; climate change, globalisation on land use and pressures from development, changing lifestyles and transportation.

The Chairman of the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Niel Curwen said:

"The new plan not only sets out our policies, aims and objectives for the next five years but also provides a vision for the future of the AONB over the next 25 years. This is not just a plan prepared by the board for itself. It is a plan for all those who value the area and have an interest in it.

Our successes to date reflect the commitment of many different individuals and organisations. This will also be true of the implementation of the new plan over the next five years. It will only succeed in shaping a positive future for the Cotswolds AONB if people with varied interests work closely together to achieve results."

The plan is available on the AONB website at www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Notes to editors:

Click here to go straight to the Cotswolds AONB Management Plan 2008-13

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the

Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members,

17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 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 largest of 40 AONBs

in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special

character are conserved.

• Relevant authorities are advised by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) that AONB management plans are a useful mechanism for securing their active involvement in the management of AONBs and demonstrating their compliance with the CROW Act 2000. The act placed new responsibilities on local authorities to ensure further protection for designated landscapes. It also confirmed that AONBs share with National Parks, the highest status of protection in relation to landscape and scenic beauty.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board

Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000

Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The AONB covers 790 square miles and is the second largest protected landscape in England, stretching from south Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and parts of west Oxfordshire, down to west Wiltshire and the area surrounding Bath in the south.

The five-year plan has been produced by the organisation that exists to conserve and enhance the AONB, the Cotswolds Conservation Board. The board has two statutory purposes; to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the AONB and to increase public understanding and enjoyment of the area. In fulfilling these roles, the board also seeks to foster the social and economic wellbeing of people living in the Cotswolds.

Designed as a guide for local authorities, statutory agencies and other bodies such as businesses and individuals working within the AONB, the new management plan covers a wide range of issues that affect the Cotswolds such as; development and transport, rural land management, natural resources, biodiversity and the historic environment. There are also three key issues that influence the whole plan; climate change, globalisation on land use and pressures from development, changing lifestyles and transportation.

The Chairman of the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Niel Curwen said:

"The new plan not only sets out our policies, aims and objectives for the next five years but also provides a vision for the future of the AONB over the next 25 years. This is not just a plan prepared by the board for itself. It is a plan for all those who value the area and have an interest in it.

Our successes to date reflect the commitment of many different individuals and organisations. This will also be true of the implementation of the new plan over the next five years. It will only succeed in shaping a positive future for the Cotswolds AONB if people with varied interests work closely together to achieve results."

Click here to go straight to the Cotswolds AONB Management Plan 2008-13

Between May and October this year, expert drystone wallers will be holding two-day courses which will appeal to beginners wanting to take up the craft but also offer those with a bit of walling 'know-how' the chance to hone their skills.

Two participants from last year's programme of courses said that they were impressed with their training. John Hammill from Dursley in Gloucestershire said that it was:

'An excellent course delivered by a very competent and articulate trainer'

Nadeem Akram from Stroud said:

'The teaching was outstanding and it brought the subject to life. My interest in geology has increased'

During the last five years, over 1,000 people have taken part in the training courses. Some of these have gone on to take a nationally recognised qualification in drystone walling with many becoming professional wallers as a result.

The chairman of the Cotswolds Conservation Board Neil Curwen said:

"Drystone walls are very much part of what makes the Cotswolds special because they are a key feature across the area. There are at least 4,000 miles of drystone walls in the AONB, (as long as the great wall of China). Sadly many of them are in a derelict state but it's hoped that our walling courses will encourage people to maintain and restore them for future generations."

The courses will be held at:

Long Compton in Warwickshire, Broadway in Worcestershire, Lansdown near Bath, Tetbury, Leckhampton and Naunton in Gloucestershire.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

Please click here for walling course dates.

The Cotswolds Conservation Board supports the rural skill of drystone walling in a number of ways including an annual drystone walling competition which takes place every autumn.

The board is also running a project called 'Walling No Barrier', which aims to support drystone walling students by subsidising course fees and encourages them to sign up to apprenticeships with experienced wallers. The project is supported by Leader + funding and run by Abingdon and Witney College in partnership with the Cotswold Conservation Board and the Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain.

Wallers are being taught on Springhill Farm near Milton-Under-Wychwood by kind agreement of Mr Edward Reynolds. Students graduate with a Lantra level two qualification in drystone walling, which is a nationally recognised qualification.

Cotswolds AONB fact file

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the

Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members,

17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 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 largest of 40 AONBs

in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special

character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Between May and October this year, expert drystone wallers will be holding two-day courses which will appeal to beginners wanting to take up the craft but also offer those with a bit of walling 'know-how' the chance to hone their skills.

Two participants from last year's programme of courses said that they were impressed with their training. John Hammill from Dursley in Gloucestershire said that it was:

'An excellent course delivered by a very competent and articulate trainer'

Nadeem Akram from Stroud said:

'The teaching was outstanding and it brought the subject to life. My interest in geology has increased'

During the last five years, over 1,000 people have taken part in the training courses. Some of these have gone on to take a nationally recognised qualification in drystone walling with many becoming professional wallers as a result.

The chairman of the Cotswolds Conservation Board Neil Curwen said:

"Drystone walls are very much part of what makes the Cotswolds special because they are a key feature across the area. There are at least 4,000 miles of drystone walls in the AONB, (as long as the great wall of China). Sadly many of them are in a derelict state but it's hoped that our walling courses will encourage people to maintain and restore them for future generations."

The courses will be held at:

Long Compton in Warwickshire, Broadway in Worcestershire, Lansdown near Bath, Tetbury, Leckhampton and Naunton in Gloucestershire.

Click here for a list of course dates and booking information.

Three attractions in and around the city; Bristol Zoo, Noah's Ark Zoo Farm and Windmill Hill City Farm are hosting a new educational resource for Geography and History at Key Stage 2 in the form of state-of-the art kiosks, housing an interactive computer game.

'Quantum Sheep and the Wonderful Wolds' is designed to introduce the concept of landscape change over time to 7-11 year olds.

The game's hero, Quantum Sheep, takes youngsters on a journey through four eras in time. Along the way he encounters all sorts of flora and fauna and our heroic sheep also finds out about the impact of man upon the landscape.

Primary school teachers are being offered the opportunity to visit the attractions, with pupils studying History and Geography at Key Stage 2, to play on the kiosks. An accompanying lesson planning pack enables school groups to take full advantage of opportunities available.

The Kiosks have been created with the help of The Heritage Lottery Fund, by the organisation that exists to conserve and enhance the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

The Chairman of the Cotswolds Conservation Board Niel Curwen said:

"The hope is that by bridging the gap in this way between Bristol and the Cotswolds AONB, youngsters in the city will become more aware of one of the UK's finest landscapes and potentially make a visit. It could lead to youngsters living in Bristol taking the opportunity to enjoy many of the outdoor activities in the AONB such as walking, riding or cycling. "

Click here for more information and here for a flyer about the kiosks.

Three attractions in and around the city; Bristol Zoo, Noah's Ark Zoo Farm and Windmill Hill City Farm are hosting a new educational resource for Geography and History at Key Stage 2 in the form of state-of-the art kiosks, housing an interactive computer game.

'Quantum Sheep and the Wonderful Wolds' is designed to introduce the concept of landscape change over time to 7-11 year olds.

The game's hero, Quantum Sheep, takes youngsters on a journey through four eras in time. Along the way he encounters all sorts of flora and fauna and our heroic sheep also finds out about the impact of man upon the landscape.

Primary school teachers are being offered the opportunity to visit the attractions, with pupils studying History and Geography at Key Stage 2, to play on the kiosks. An accompanying lesson planning pack enables school groups to take full advantage of opportunities available.

The Kiosks have been created with the help of The Heritage Lottery Fund, by the organisation that exists to conserve and enhance the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

The Chairman of the Cotswolds Conservation Board Niel Curwen said:

"The hope is that by bridging the gap in this way between Bristol and the Cotswolds AONB, youngsters in the city will become more aware of one of the UK's finest landscapes and potentially make a visit. It could lead to youngsters living in Bristol taking the opportunity to enjoy many of the outdoor activities in the AONB such as walking, riding or cycling. "

The Cotswolds AONB is the second largest protected landscape in England and Wales and 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.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

The kiosks will be available in Bristol venues until late spring. Click here for more information and here to see a flyer.

Cotswolds AONB fact file

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the

Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members,

17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 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 largest of 40 AONBs

in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special

character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

(Please go to the press releases section of our website for more news stories)

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

There are now over 340 Cotswold Voluntary wardens but back in 1968 when they were established it was Head Warden, Major Ray Clarke's job to recruit volunteers. Employed by Gloucestershire County Council to help found the Wardens, he set to work and by 1970 there were over 200 members.

The current Head Warden, Colin Boulton said:

" It was no surprise that the number of warden's swelled so quickly and that it stands at over 340 today. It is testament to Major Ray Clarke's hard work but also to the dedication of those who have been wardens over the years and those who now make up the service. It also illustrates the great sense of achievement and fulfillment there is to be had from working voluntarily to care for an area that is well loved by so many. "

The Wardens will be celebrating their 40th year with a week of activity in the early summer, including parish walks in the north Cotswolds, family focused walks across the area, a public conservation work party in the south and a special event to mark the anniversary at the Royal Agricultural College.

A series of 15 short walks that are suitable for those using wheelchairs, power scooters and pushchairs has also been created to mark the 40th Anniversary. 'Walks on Wheels' which will be available to the public in the spring has been given the stamp of approval by access professionals and disability groups and all of the routes have been tested.

Wardens complete thousands of hours of conservation work every year and in 2006-7 broke their own record by collectively working over 40,000 hours. Their conservation work covers everything from walking route improvements, such as path clearance, gate installation and bridge building, to drystone walling, hedgelaying, scrub clearance and restoration of historic features. Wardens also lead hundreds of guided walks every year and hold stands at shows across the AONB.

There are now over 340 Cotswold Voluntary wardens but back in 1968 when they were established it was Head Warden, Major Ray Clarke's job to recruit volunteers. Employed by Gloucestershire County Council to help found the Wardens, he set to work and by 1970 there were over 200 members.

The current Head Warden, Colin Boulton said:

" It was no surprise that the number of warden's swelled so quickly and that it stands at over 340

today. It is testament to Major Ray Clarke's hard work but also to the dedication of those who have been wardens over the years and those who now make up the service. It also illustrates the great sense of achievement and fulfillment there is to be had from working voluntarily to care for an area that is well loved by so many. "

The Wardens will be celebrating their 40th year with a week of activity in the early summer, including parish walks in the north Cotswolds, family focused walks across the area, a public conservation work party in the south and a special event to mark the anniversary at the Royal Agricultural College.

A series of 15 short walks that are suitable for those using wheelchairs, power scooters and pushchairs has also been created to mark the 40th Anniversary. 'Walks on Wheels' which will be available to the public in the spring has been given the stamp of approval by access professionals and disability groups and all of the routes have been tested.

Wardens complete thousands of hours of conservation work every year and in 2006-7 broke their own record by collectively working over 40,000 hours. Their conservation work covers everything from walking route improvements, such as path clearance, gate installation and bridge building, to drystone walling, hedgelaying, scrub clearance and restoration of historic features. Wardens also lead hundreds of guided walks every year and hold stands at shows across the AONB.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

Contacts:

Claire Cunningham: 01451 862003

Rebecca Jones: 01451 862008

Mark Connelly: 01451 862006

Over the past 40 years, the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens have achieved a great deal:

 1975 - Guided walks programme established - it continues to this day with over 300 walks a year.

 1976 - Drought in Britain. Participants on walks requested not to smoke for fear of fire.

 1980s - Wardens won two awards for their work. The Tidy Britain Award for their 'Clean up the Cotswolds' campaign and the Carnegie Interpret Britain Award for audio visual presentations on their work.

 1981 - Over 400 people attended Prestbury village guided walk.

 1991 - The Wardens Way and Windrush Way were created by wardens.

 1990s - Wardens work to create easy access (stile free) routes and lead wheelchair walks

 1993 - 25th anniversary celebration held at Royal Agricultural College.

 2001 - Wardens create an alternative Town and Village walks programme to allow visitors to continue to enjoy the AONB despite Foot and Mouth restrictions.

Cotswolds AONB fact file

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the

Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members,

17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 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 largest of 40 AONBs

in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special

character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

National Grid had been seeking the Secretary of State's consent to build the 44km natural gas pipeline from Wormington in Worcestershire to Sapperton in Gloucestershire.

National Grid have said that the reason for the turn around is that revised figures show that gas demand for the West of England is not rising as fast as originally forecast. It has said that that situation will be kept under review because the pipeline may be needed in the future.

The Director of the Cotswolds Conservation Board Martin Lane said:

"The Board can only welcome the decision to put plans to build the pipeline on hold. We objected to the environmental impact statement for the proposed pipeline because it did not consider an alternative route outside of the AONB.

At the time we wrote to the Department of Trade and Industry, (now the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform) stating our objection and this resulted in a request for National Grid to investigate alternative routes outside the area.

An alternative route that had a much lower impact on the AONB was identified and should a review of the pipeline lead to the plans being put back on the table the Board will be strongly advocating a full re-examination of the options available with an emphasis on routes outside of the AONB."

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The statement above is the Board's response to this story and no further comments will be made. (This includes photo shoots etc).

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the

Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members,

17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed

by Government.

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the 17 local authorities within the AONB.

• 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 largest of 40 AONBs

in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special

character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

National Grid had been seeking the Secretary of State's consent to build the 44km natural gas pipeline from Wormington in Worcestershire to Sapperton in Gloucestershire.

National Grid have said that the reason for the turn around is that revised figures show that gas demand for the West of England is not rising as fast as originally forecast. It has said that that situation will be kept under review because the pipeline may be needed in the future.

The Director of the Cotswolds Conservation Board Martin Lane said:

"The Board can only welcome the decision to put plans to build the pipeline on hold. We objected to the environmental impact assessment for the proposed pipeline because it did not consider an alternative route outside of the AONB.

At the time we wrote to the Department of Trade and Industry, (now the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform) stating our objection and this resulted in a request for National Grid to investigate alternative routes outside the area.

An alternative route that had a much lower impact on the AONB was identified and should a review of the pipeline lead to the plans being put back on the table the Board will be strongly advocating a full re-examination of the options available with an emphasis on routes outside of the AONB."

The annual North Cotswolds Hedgelaying Competition was held on Saturday 17th November and resulted in a beautifully laid length of hedge along May Lane, the road into the village of Ebrington just off the B4035.

Competition organiser Mark Connelly, from the Cotswolds Conservation Board said:

"The competition attracted many spectators; even people who were intending to take a walk through the countryside changed their plans and stopped to watch the hedglayers at work.

The finished results really are quite stunning to see and a fine example of a traditional rural craft that is kept alive by events of this kind."

In all, 26 hedgelayers were given the chance to pit their skills against others in four classes, designed to match their abilities; Open, Veteran, Junior Beginners and Novice and Beginners pairs.

The competition was organised by the Cotswolds Conservation Board and supported by The National Hedgelaying Society. It was held courtesy of DE and DM Drinkwater and Sons.

Please click here to see the results of the competition.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

Main contact Mark Connelly: Tel: 01451 862006 Mobile: 07841 663606

The Cotswolds Conservation Board runs an annual programme of two day hedgelaying training courses at a cost of £55.

The beginners course covers the basics of hedgelaying in the midlands style including clearing, trimming, cutting and laying the pleacher, staking and binding. This year's courses take place: near Great Rissington on November 24th & 25th, December 1st & 2nd, January 19th & 20th, February 2nd & 3rd.

Cotswolds AONB fact file

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the

Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members,

17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 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 largest of 40 AONBs

in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special

character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The annual North Cotswolds Hedgelaying competition was held on Saturday 17th November and resulted in a beautifully laid length of hedge along May Lane, the road into the village of Ebrington just off the B4035.

Competition organiser Mark Connelly from the Cotswolds Conservation Board said:

"The competition attracted many spectators; even people who were intending to take a walk through the countryside changed their plans and stopped to watch the hedglayers at work.

The finished results really are quite stunning to see and a fine example of a traditional rural craft that is kept alive by events of this kind."

In all, 26 hedgelayers were given the chance to pit their skills against others in four classes, designed to match their abilities; Open, Veteran, Junior Beginners and Novice and Beginners pairs.

The competition was organised by the Cotswolds Conservation Board and supported by The National Hedgelaying Society. It was held courtesy of DE and DM Drinkwater and Sons.

Please click here to see the results of the competition.

Young people in the Cotswolds are being encouraged to discover the answers to these questions and find out much more about what we eat through a national campaign that has just been launched and will run until next summer.

The Year of Food and Farming will involve everyone in the food chain - from farmers and food processors to chefs and restaurant owners - in order to capture children's imagination about food and the way it is produced.

It gives schools throughout the Cotswolds the chance to put food on the curriculum in an exciting way through hands-on learning experiences for pupils of all ages.

Thanks to the participation of the food and farming industry, the youngsters will find out how food is grown and produced through visits to farms and food processing plants, growing their own crops as school projects and learning from culinary experts.

The campaign is designed to spread the culture of eating healthily - and make students aware of career opportunities in agriculture, the food processing industry and catering sector.

Cotswolds-based celebrity chef Rob Rees, a former member of the Cotswolds Conservation Board, has helped to shape the Year of Food and Farming menu of events in the South West region.

Rob will also be visiting primary and secondary schools as well as colleges in the region - many of them in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) - as part of the campaign.

He said: "I will be showing young people how to cook locally sourced, good quality food. However this is not domestic science. It is an effective way of adding value to the curriculum.

"My demonstrations of cooking and preparing food will be linked to other subjects such as maths."

Rob added: "I have been involved with schools for some years in order to educate young people about good eating, and I'm sure that the Year of Food and Farming campaign will be an effective way of promoting that culture.

"This academic year is the food and farming industry's real opportunity to engage a whole new generation with its work, products and people."

An impressive array of farms, businesses and individuals in the Cotswolds AONB are supporting the Year of Food and Farming which was launched on 12th September at the Highgrove estate of Prince Charles who is the scheme's Patron. Local schools were involved in the launch event at the Duchy Home Farm.

Other farms and businesses within the Cotswolds AONB that will be organising events to give children a close insight into how local food is produced and cooked include:

Chef 4 Schools - organised by Gloucestershire Tourism Skills Network.

A team of 14 chefs trained by Rob Rees will be offering schools in Gloucestershire cookery demos that add value to the curriculum.

Cheltenham Children's Services will hold cookery demonstrations on 12th October supported by Gloucestershire Food Vision.

Kraft Health 4 Schools programme will continue its award winning project with 100 schools in Gloucestershire involved in cooking, eating, growing and active play.

If you want to keep up with all the events, a Mega Map for each region in England shows all Year of Food and Farming activities by farms and businesses that have registered their support on the site.

By logging on to www.yearoffoodandfarming.org.uk teachers can quickly select the most suitable entries in their area.

John Lee, Chairman of the Year of Food and Farming in the South West, said:

"The main point of the campaign is to involve children of all ages in understanding where food comes from and look at the whole food chain.

"The key aim is to provide an ongoing legacy that among other things will encourage healthier lifestyles and good nutrition, increase interest in careers in the food and farming industries and develop a greater appreciation of the importance of the countryside and environmental issues."

The Tracking Change in the Character of the English Landscape report, produced by Natural England, English Heritage and Defra, revealed that the quality of England's landscape is changing when measured against seven criteria: woods, hedges and drystone walls, rivers, farming, wild open spaces and housing developments.

The report which was produced as part of a project called Countryside Quality Counts focused on the Cotswolds Joint Character Area and concluded that overall the Cotswolds was being well maintained and is improving as a landscape area.

Dr Helen Phillips, Chief Executive of Natural England said: "Some of our treasured landscapes are suffering decline and neglect.

"We want to celebrate the countryside's local accent such as honey coloured drystone walls in the Cotswolds and the hedgerows of the Midlands.

"The Countryside Quality Counts Indicators allow us to monitor change and to identify the pressures causing it that will help guide policies to help ensure that the wider countryside does not slip away quietly unnoticed and unmourned."

Hedgelayers are to get the chance to pit their skills against others in the North Cotswolds Hedgelaying competition which takes place on Saturday 17th November at the Ford Bridge Ground, Ebrington near Chipping Campden. The event is being held courtesy of DE and DM Drinkwater and Sons.

Competitors from across the UK will compete in four classes, designed to match their abilities; Open, Veteran, Junior Beginners and Novice and Beginners pairs.

Organiser Mark Connelly said:

"Taking part in the competition is a great confidence booster, especially if you

are relatively new to Hedgelaying. It is also a tried and tested way for more experienced hedgelayers to really get competitive.

"In all, the competition is a really good way of keeping the skill of hedgelaying

alive and the enthusiasm and energy that is displayed at these events

clearly goes to show that it is by no means a 'dying art".

Spectators are welcome to attend the event which will take place between 8.30am

and 2pm.

For more information and a registration form please contact Mark Connelly on 01451 862006.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

Main contact:

Mark Connelly : Tel: 01451 862006 Mobile: 07841 663606

Registration forms for competitors are available from Mark. Click here to download an information leaflet and registration form.

The competition is located just south of Ebrington between Chipping Campden

(2.5 miles) and Shipston-Upon-Stour ( 4.5 miles). Click here to view the exact location on our interactive map. Click on the trophy icon on the top layer of the map to see more detailed map location.

The Cotswolds Conservation Board runs an annual programme of two day hedgelaying training courses at a cost of £55.

The beginners course covers the basics of hedgelaying in the midlands style including clearing, trimming, cutting and laying the pleacher, staking and binding. This year's courses take place: near Great Rissington on November 24th & 25th, December 1st & 2nd, January 19th & 20th, February 2nd & 3rd.

Cotswolds AONB fact file

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the

Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members,

17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 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 largest of 40 AONBs

in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special

character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

(Please go to the press releases section of our website for more news stories)

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Hedgelayers are to get the chance to pit their skills against others in the North Cotswolds Hedgelaying competition which takes place on Saturday 17th November at the Ford Bridge Ground, Ebrington near Chipping Campden. The event is being held courtesy of DE and DM Drinkwater and Sons.

Competitors from across the UK will compete in four classes, designed to match their abilities; Open, Veteran, Junior Beginners and Novice and Beginners pairs.

Organiser Mark Connelly said:

"Taking part in the competition is a great confidence booster, especially if you

are relatively new to Hedgelaying. It is also a tried and tested way for more experienced hedgelayers to really get competitive.

"In all, the competition is a really good way of keeping the skill of hedgelaying

alive and the enthusiasm and energy that is displayed at these events

clearly goes to show that it is by no means a 'dying art".

Spectators are welcome to attend the event which will take place between 8.30am

and 2pm.

For more information and a registration form please contact Mark Connelly on 01451 862006.

It is one of the first pioneering 'landscape scale' projects funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and has helped to ensure that the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is conserved and enhanced for future generations.

In delivering the project the Cotswolds Conservation Board paid special attention to:

• The drystone walls that are a distinctive feature of the AONB

• The limestone grasslands that were greatly reduced in number decades ago due to intensive farming but are now being restored by conservationists and farmers to provide a rich habitat for a diverse range of animals and plants, including up to 25 species of butterfly

• Conserving the local distinctiveness of the field patterns, hedgerows, trees, towns, villages and buildings that make the Cotswolds unique

• A major interpretation project aimed at helping the public understand and enjoy the Cotswolds AONB

Niel Curwen Chairman of the Cotswolds Conservation Board said:

" When you walk or drive through the Cotswolds landscape and take time to reflect upon the characteristics that make the area unique, it is worth remembering that, although they appear to have been there for ever, the features that catch your eye may well have been carefully cared for and tended recently.

" Very often, we see a view that pleases and find ourselves appreciating it for its timeless beauty but the satisfying balance and composition of some of the most stunning vistas in the area has very often been given a helping hand in the recent past by farmers, land managers and conservationists."

The project, which ends this December has covered a wide spectrum of conservation work, from using conservation grazing to ensure that wildflower grassland sites in target areas flourish to providing rural skills courses to encourage more people to learn to repair drystone walls.

Ends

Notes to editors:

• CLICK HERE to view a booklet: Caring for the Cotswolds, Celebrating the culmination of our five-year conservation project. We hope that this provides you with adequate background information about the project, including case studies. Please contact us if you require photographs or more detail: Claire Cunningham - 01451 862003

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the 17 local authorities within the AONB.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Lasting five years and supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the £2.8 million 'Caring for the Cotswolds' project has been tackling the key elements that make the area unique and help it attract millions of visitors every year.

It is one of the first pioneering 'landscape-scale' projects funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and has helped to ensure that the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is conserved and enhanced for future generations.

In delivering the project the Cotswolds Conservation Board paid special attention to:

The drystone walls that are a distinctive feature of the AONB.

The limestone grasslands that were nearly destroyed by intensive farming decades ago but are being restored by conservationists and farmers to provide a rich habitat for a diverse range of wild flowers and grasses and up to 25 species of butterfly.

Conserving the local distinctiveness of the field patterns, hedgerows, trees, towns, villages and buildings that set the Cotswolds aside from any other area of the country.

A major interpretation project aimed at helping the public understand and appreciate the Cotswolds AONB.

Niel Curwen, Chairman of the Cotswolds Conservation Board, commented:

"When you walk or drive through the Cotswolds landscape and take time to reflect upon the characteristics that make the area unique, it is worth remembering that, although they appear to have been there for ever, the features that catch your eye may well have been carefully cared for and tended recently.

"Very often, we see a view that pleases and find ourselves appreciating it for its timeless beauty but the satisfying balance and composition of some of the most stunning vistas in the area has very often been given a helping hand in the recent past by farmers, land managers and conservationists."

The project has covered a wide spectrum of conservation work, from using conservation grazing to ensure that wildflower grassland sites in target areas flourish, to providing rural skills courses to encourage more people to learn to help repair drystone walls.

Certain areas of the project have also been upheld as nationally acclaimed examples of good practice.

Click here to see a booklet about the project.

The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Open Drystone Walling competition, which is run by the Cotswolds Conservation Board in partnership with the Cotswold Branch of the Drystone Walling Association of Great Britain will take place at Overtown Farm near Cranham in Gloucestershire.

Competitors will have the chance to enter four classes: professional, part-time professional waller, novice and beginner pairs.

Chairman of the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Niel Curwen said:

"Drystone walls are a traditional feature of the Cotswolds AONB and make up the fabric of the landscape. Here at the Cotswolds Conservation Board we work to encourage people to learn the rural skill of walling and a competition is a great way to inspire people and keep the art alive."

Members of the press are invited to attend the event from 11am onwards.

The competition is just one of a range of ways in which the Cotswolds Conservation Board works to encourage drystone walling.

The Board also works alongside partner organisations to subsidise walling courses run by Stroud College and Abingdon and Witney College, which are held at the Ebworth Estate near Stroud and at the Cornbury Estate in West Oxfordshire.

Click here to see a leaflet and application form

For more information contact: Mark Connelly on 01451 862006.

The villagers of Compton Abdale successfully applied for a special grant from the Cotswolds Conservation Board designed to help local people conserve distinctive features in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

The Board donated £2,000 towards a total project cost of £6,400. It made it possible for Cotswold stonemason Richard Pods to carve a brand new crocodile head complete with a lead lining inside the huge toothy mouth to prevent water erosion over time.

Spokesperson for the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Claire Cunningham said:

"We are delighted to be able to fund such a fantastic project that helps to maintain the unique and distinctive qualities of the area. The Compton Abdale Crocodile symbolises man's respectful interaction with nature in the Cotswolds AONB over time. It literally demonstrates the way in which we have channelled nature for our own use over many thousands of years."

The grant was distributed as part of a five-year conservation project, delivered by the Cotswolds Conservation Board and supported by a £1.4 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. Caring for the Cotswolds ends in December this year. The £2.8 million pound project has made significant improvements and advances on a conservation level in four areas; limestone grassland restoration, drystone walling, local distinctiveness and interpretation.

Click here too see a booklet about the project.

Ends

Notes for editors:

• The restored Compton Adbale Crocodile was unveiled on Thursday 27th September. Before and after pictures are attached with this press release. Please observe the copyright credits. BEFORE: copyright Nick Turner AFTER: copyright Paul Felix.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the 17 local authorities within the AONB.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

(Please go to the press releases section of our website for more news stories)

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Open Drystone Walling competition, which is run by the Cotswolds Conservation Board in partnership with the Cotswold Branch of the Drystone Walling Association of Great Britain will take place at Overtown Farm near Cranham in Gloucestershire.

Competitors will have the chance to enter four classes: professional, part-time professional waller, novice and beginner pairs.

Chairman of the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Niel Curwen said:

"Drystone walls are a traditional feature of the Cotswolds AONB and make up the fabric of the landscape. Here at the Cotswolds Conservation Board we work to encourage people to learn the rural skill of walling and a competition is a great way to inspire people and keep the art alive."

Members of the press are invited to attend the event from 11am onwards.

The competition is just one of a range of ways in which the Cotswolds Conservation Board works to encourage drystone walling.

The Board also works alongside partner organisations to subsidise walling courses run by Stroud College and Abingdon and Witney College, which are held at the Ebworth Estate near Stroud and at the Cornbury Estate in West Oxfordshire.

For more information contact: Mark Connelly on 01451 862006.

Ends

Notes for editors:

• Click here to see a registration form for the competition and click here to access our interactive map which shows you the exact location of the competition. Just click on the trophy icon sign on the top layer of the map.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the 17 local authorities within the AONB.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

(Please go to the press releases section of our website for more news stories)

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The Crocodile which sits at one of the main t-junctions in the tiny village of Compton Adbale has been channelling spring water from the limestone hillside into the River Coln, a tributary of the Thames for over 150 years.

The villagers of Compton Abdale successfully applied for a special grant from the Cotswolds Conservation Board designed to help local people conserve distinctive features in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

The Board donated £2,000 towards a total project cost of £6,400. It made it possible for Cotswold stonemason Richard Pods to carve a brand new crocodile head complete with a lead lining inside the huge toothy mouth to prevent water erosion over time.

Spokesperson for the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Claire Cunningham said:

"We are delighted to be able to fund such a fantastic project that helps to maintain the unique and distinctive qualities of the area. The Compton Abdale Crocodile symbolises man's respectful interaction with nature in the Cotswolds AONB over time. It literally demonstrates the way in which we have channelled nature for our own use over many thousands of years."

The grant was distributed as part of a five-year conservation project, delivered by the Cotswolds Conservation Board and supported by a £1.4 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. Caring for the Cotswolds ends in December this year. The £2.8 million pound project has made significant improvements and advances on a conservation level in four areas; limestone grassland restoration, drystone walling, local distinctiveness and interpretation.

Click here too see a booklet about the project.

Founded in 2004 the Board works to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the Cotswolds AONB and to increase public understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the area. In fulfilling these roles the Board seeks to foster the social and economic well-being of local communities.

Board members are responsible for making decisions which directly affect the Cotswolds. Of the 40 members, 15 are appointed by the Secretary of State for the Environment and the current Secretary of State Hilary Benn MP, has encouraged people to apply for the two new positions.

Chairman of the Cotswolds Conservation Board Niel Curwen said:

"This is a fascinating opportunity for individuals who are interested in helping to make key decisions about the Cotswolds. Board members have the opportunity to help shape perceptions about the importance of conservation issues in the area and can use their influence and abilities to help ensure that the AONB is conserved in a sustainable way".

Candidates will understand the concept and practice of sustainable development and will be drawn from a broad range of backgrounds. Applications are particularly encouraged from members of ethnic minorities, young people and disabled people.

The closing date for applications is Monday 22nd October and appointments will start in the Spring of 2008.

Click here for more information on the required skills and experience and application forms.

Application forms and further details can also be obtained from:

Rosalia Tramontana, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), Block A, Spur 12, Government Buildings, Whittington Road, Worcester, WR5 2LQ;

Tel no: 01905 768822;

Click here to e-mail Rosalia

The Cotswolds Conservation Board is looking to appoint two new Secretary of State Board Members.

The members of a Conservation Board are drawn from three sources: the constituent local authorities; parish councils and those appointed by the Secretary of State for Defra.

If you are interested in becoming a Secretary of State appointed member you may be interseted to know that a recruitment exercise for new members will take place over the next few months with an application period running throughout most of September and October.

Appointments will begin on 1st April 2008.

We will post more details about the applications process once they become available.

Click here to view information about existing Board members.

The prize, is a visit for Mrs Parkes and a group of her friends to the 18th century garden which nestles on the outskirts of the Cotswold town of Painswick.

The competition is part of a year-long campaign, to encourage people to visit and enjoy gardens across the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and beyond.

Mrs Parkes said:

"I am so pleased to have won as I have never been to the Rococo garden and I am very keen to visit, so this is a great opportunity to go and have a look. "

The group will enjoy a Champagne welcome with garden manager Paul Moir and Libby Bird, a member of the Cotswolds Conservation Board. They will then be taken on a tour of the garden and have a very special opportunity to harvest produce from the ornate vegetable plot.

Members of the press are invited to attend a brief photo call at the garden's bothy at 2pm. Please meet outside the Coach House shop and restaurant in the grounds.

Ends

Notes to editors:

• Members of the broadcast media are requested to contact the Cotswolds Conservation Board in advance if they would like to attend. Contact: Claire Cunningham - 01451 862003

• The Rococo Garden is situated on the B4073, 1/2 mile outside the village of Painswick and there is a free car park on site. To find out more go to: www.rococogarden.co.uk

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

• 2007 - Year of the Cotswold Garden runs until the end of the calendar year 2007 and has been coordinated by the Cotswolds Destination Management Organisation (DMO). Readers can check events at www.cotswolds.com and can also print of a set of vouchers for discounted admission to Cotswold gardens.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham - Tel: 01451 862003

(Please note that I am out of the office on Friday 6th and Monday 9th of July. Please leave a message and I will get back to you)

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Red Dog Productions worked in association with the Cotswolds Conservation Board to inspire children to learn more about the AONB by mixing the pleasure of walking, with educational workshops about Cotswold heritage. Pupils had a chance to enjoy the magic of theatre by taking part in a workshop about Red Dog's current touring production, The Merry Wives of Windsor. The children then went on to perform in an evening production of the play at their school.

The project was made possible by a £15,000 Sustainable Development Fund grant from the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

Spokesperson for the Board, Claire Cunningham said;

"One of our main aims is to encourage as many people as possible to enjoy the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and what better way to foster communities of people who fully appreciate the area than working with local school children. The Board is delighted that a Sustainable Development Fund Grant has helped to make this project possible."

The guided walks led by the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens allowed the children to experience and explore settlement patterns, building materials and styles, grassland and the significance of wool in shaping the Cotswold landscape. The workshops introduced pupils to peg loom weaving and they had the chance to create display materials based on the morning's walk.

Pupils were also given a booklet produced by Red Dog Productions about the landscape and heritage of the Cotswolds.

Click here to find out more about Red Dog Productions.

Red Dog Productions will be working in association with the Cotswolds Conservation Board to inspire children to learn more about the AONB by mixing the pleasure of walking, with educational workshops about Cotswold heritage. Pupils will also have a chance to enjoy the magic of theatre by taking part in a workshop about Red Dog's current touring production, The Merry Wives of Windsor. The children will then go on to perform in an evening production of the play at their school.

The project has been made possible by a £15,000 Sustainable Development Fund grant from the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

Spokesperson for the Board, Claire Cunningham said;

"One of our main aims is to encourage as many people as possible to enjoy the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and what better way to foster communities of people who fully appreciate the area than working with local school children. The Board is delighted that a Sustainable Development Fund Grant has helped to make this project possible."

The guided walks led by the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens will allow the children to experience and explore settlement patterns, building materials and styles, grassland and the significance of wool in shaping the Cotswold landscape. The workshops will introduce pupils to peg loom weaving and they will have the chance to create display materials based on the morning's walk.

Pupils will also be given a booklet produced by Red Dog Productions about the landscape and heritage of the Cotswolds.

Ends

Notes to editors:

• Another major strand to the project: Young Roots Heritage Fund gave £18,000 for Liz Lippiatt, a professional textile designer based in Stroud, to work with students from Shire Training Workshops. The students designed and printed the cloth used to make the costumes for Red Dog's current touring production, The Merry Wives of Windsor.

The students also worked with costume designer Ali Heywood and used wool sourced from a working 19th century woollen mill, (Filkins Mill near Lechlade).

Shire Training Workshops is a registered charity providing housing, training, education and rehabilitation opportunities for young people in Stroud and surrounding districts.

• Performance dates are as follows: (Text in bold denotes schools walks & workshops)

Friday 6 July - 7pm Sherborne Primary School, Saturday 7 July - 7pm Stratford Park, Stroud, Monday 9 July - 7pm St Lawrence Primary School, Lechlade, Tuesday 10 July - 7pm Bibury Primary School , Wednesday 11 July - 7pm Wychwood Primary School, Shipton under Wychwood, Thursday 12 July - 7pm St Andrew's Primary School, Chedworth , Friday 13 July - 7pm Winchcombe School , Saturday 14 July - 7pm Thomas Keble School, Eastcombe, Stroud, Sunday 15 July - 5.30pm (doors open 4.45 for hog roast) Blades Cafe, Northleach, Monday 16 July -7pm Temple Guiting Primary School , Wednesday 18 July - 7pm Near Cranham Primary School, Thursday 19th July - Sunday 22nd 2.30 & 7pm July Skillicorne Garden, Cheltenham (behind Town Hall), Tuesday 24 July - Friday 27th July -7pm Woodchester Mansion Grounds , Saturday 28 July - 2.30pm and 7pm Star Anise Café Stroud, Sunday 19th July 7pm, Cogges Manor Farm Museum, Witney.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Cotswold Voluntary Wardens formed in 1968. There are 340 Cotswold Voluntary Wardens, part of the Cotswolds Conservation Board. The wardens have been leading guided walks in the AONB since 1975.

Press contact: Kate Abraham, Red Dog Productions: 07971 093397

For more information about Red Dog Productions please visit: www.reddog.org.uk

Claire Cunningham, Cotswolds Conservation Board: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The wardens form the voluntary arm of the Cotswolds Conservation Board, the organisation that exists to oversee the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Hundreds of Cotswold Wardens give up many hours of their time every year to carry out essential practical work across the AONB.

In 2006-7 the wardens worked 40,577 hours, five thousand more than the previous year.

In addition to their conservation efforts such as maintaining well trodden walking routes, building bridges and restoring stone stiles, the wardens lead hundreds of guided walks every year, attend summer county shows and give talks about their work.

Head Warden Colin Boulton said:

"The commitment of the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens is unwavering, year in year out they demonstrate their keen appreciation of and connection with the Cotswold landscape. Their efforts often go unseen but the fruits of their labour are enjoyed by many who visit the area.

Whether it be an easier walking experience along a much loved route or an enjoyable afternoon spent on a guided walk there is no doubt that the benefits the Cotswold Wardens bring to the AONB are significant."

In all during 2006-7, the wardens led 292 guided walks attended by 3,800 people, planted 871 trees, worked on 23 grassland sites, planted 772 metres of hedges and repaired / rebuilt 596 metres of wall. They installed 68 stiles, 105 gates, 22 bridges and 110 steps and cleared 25 kms of path.

The Cotswold Voluntary Wardens form the voluntary arm of the Cotswolds Conservation Board, the organisation that exists to oversee the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Hundreds of Cotswold Wardens give up many hours of their time every year to carry out essential practical work across the AONB.

In 2006-7 the wardens worked 40,577 hours, five thousand more than the previous year.

In addition to their conservation efforts such as maintaining well trodden walking routes, building bridges and restoring stone stiles, the wardens lead hundreds of guided walks every year, attend summer county shows and give talks about their work.

Head Warden Colin Boulton said:

"The commitment of the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens is unwavering, year in year out they demonstrate their keen appreciation of and connection with the Cotswold landscape. Their efforts often go unseen but the fruits of their labour are enjoyed by many who visit the area.

Whether it be an easier walking experience along a much loved route or an enjoyable afternoon spent on a guided walk there is no doubt that the benefits the Cotswold Wardens bring to the AONB are significant."

In all during 2006-7, the wardens led 292 guided walks attended by 3,800 people, planted 871 trees, worked on 23 grassland sites, planted 772 metres of hedges and repaired / rebuilt 596 metres of wall. They installed 68 stiles, 105 gates, 22 bridges and 110 steps and cleared 25 kms of path.

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, wildlife trusts, Butterfly Conservation, DEFRA, The Wychwood Forest Project and many local communities.

• The Cotswold Voluntary Wardens formed in 1968. There are 340 Cotswold Voluntary Wardens, part of the Cotswolds Conservation Board. The wardens have been leading guided walks in the AONB since 1975.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The Cotswolds Conservation Board is providing a new programme of nine short family strolls across the AONB, which are designed to provide families with the opportunity to get out and about over the school holidays.

"The walks will provide an ideal opportunity for families to find out more about the countryside around them and to enjoy the spring colours in the Cotswolds" said Dave Scott, one of the Cotswolds Conservation Board's 340 Voluntary Wardens.

The strolls are ideal for younger members of the family and will cover short distances at an easy pace. Each walk focuses on a particular theme, such as wildlife or woodlands, which walks leaders will discuss with the public along the route.

It is all part of a wider walks programme that can be found in the Cotswold Conservation Board's newspaper, The Cotswold Lion.

Click here to visit pages 11, 12 and 13 of the online version of the Lion for the walks listings.

(Half term walks are highlighted in pink and bear a family logo), or pick a copy of the Cotswold Lion up from your local Tourist Information Centre.

Unfortunately due to the nature of the walks, dogs will not be allowed.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The full walks listings in the Cotswold Lion newspaper are available online at www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk or available on request from the Conservation Board Offices. Tel: 01451 862000.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

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

• Over 340 Voluntary Wardens give their time to conserve and enhance the Cotswolds AONB. In 2005 Wardens gave over 34,000 hours of their time.

Contact: Becky Jones / Claire Cunningham Tel: 01451 862000

Cotswolds Conservation Board, Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH. Tel: 01451 862000

Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The Cotswolds Conservation Board is providing a new programme of nine short family strolls across the AONB, which are designed to provide families with the opportunity to get out and about over the school holidays.

"The walks will provide an ideal opportunity for families to find out more about the countryside around them and to enjoy the spring colours in the Cotswolds" said Dave Scott, one of the Cotswolds Conservation Board's 340 Voluntary Wardens.

The strolls are ideal for younger members of the family and will cover short distances at an easy pace. Each walk focuses on a particular theme, such as wildlife or woodlands, which walks leaders will discuss with the public along the route.

It is all part of a wider walks programme that can be found in the Cotswold Conservation Board's newspaper, The Cotswold Lion.

Visit pages 11, 12 and 13 of the online version of the Lion for the walks listings http://www.cotswoldsaonb.com/files/uploads/CotswoldLionIssue16.pdf

(half term walks are highlighted in pink and bear a family logo), or pick a copy of the Cotswold Lion up from your local Tourist Information Centre.

Unfortunately due to the nature of the walks, dogs will not be allowed.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The full walks listings in the Cotswold Lion newspaper are available online at www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk or available on request from the Conservation Board Offices. Tel: 01451 862000.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

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

• Over 340 Voluntary Wardens give their time to conserve and enhance the Cotswolds AONB. In 2005 Wardens gave over 34,000 hours of their time.

Contact: Becky Jones / Claire Cunningham Tel: 01451 862000

Cotswolds Conservation Board, Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH. Tel: 01451 862000

Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The Cotswold Wardens give up hours of their time every year to carry out practical work across the AONB and an entire section of the service, the Cotswold Way Warden's district, dedicated itself to helping ensure that the Cotswold Way was up to National Trail standards.

The wardens started the first stage of their nine leg relay at 1030 am on Wednesday 16th May at Bath Abbey and carried a Shepherd's Crook, which was passed by relay to Stanway House for the opening ceremony of the National Trail, by Natural England on Thursday 24th May.

Chairman of the Avon Valley District of the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens Service Nigel Locke said:

"The launch of the Cotswold Way National Trail is a chance for people to enjoy an improved walking experience along the route and learn more about it. The Cotswold Way has been a long distance walking trail from Bath to Chipping Campden for 40 years and in that time thousands of visitors and local walkers have enjoyed the stunning views out across the Severn Vale from the Cotswolds escarpment.

A launch like this provides a good opportunity to reflect on the heritage of the area. The historical wealth of the Cotswolds was founded on the wool trade, the grazing land for the Cotswold Lion sheep and the hillside streams to power the woollen mills. The Shepherd's Crook with a sheep's head carved into it signifies a connection between the present tourist industry and the old woollen industry. "

Link to Cotswold Way National Trail Walks organised by Cotswold Voluntary Wardens & the Public Rights of Way Department

The Cotswold Wardens give up hours of their time every year to carry out practical work across the AONB and an entire section of the service, the Cotswold Way Warden's district, dedicated itself to helping ensure that the Cotswold Way was up to National Trail standards.

The wardens will start the first stage of their nine leg relay at 1030 am on Wednesday 16th May at Bath Abbey and will be carrying a Shepherd's Crook. The crook will be passed by relay to Stanway House for the opening ceremony of the National Trail, by Natural England the government agency responsible for National Trails, on Thursday 24th May.

Chairman of the Avon Valley District of the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens Service Nigel Locke said:

"The launch of the Cotswold Way National Trail is a chance for people to enjoy an improved walking experience along the route and learn more about it. The Cotswold Way has been a long distance walking trail from Bath to Chipping Campden for 40 years and in that time thousands of visitors and local walkers have enjoyed the stunning views out across the Severn Vale from the Cotswolds escarpment.

A launch like this provides a good opportunity to reflect on the heritage of the area. The historical wealth of the Cotswolds was founded on the wool trade, the grazing land for the Cotswold Lion sheep and the hillside streams to power the woollen mills. The Shepherd's Crook with a sheep's head carved into it signifies a connection between the present tourist industry and the old woollen industry. "

Ends

Notes to editors:

• For more information contact Nigel Locke, chairman of Avon Valley District. Cotswold Voluntary Wardens. 01225 481308 or 07710 514928 or Phillip Coates on 07969 862501.

• There will be nine stages to the relay walk: Bath to Dyrham 16-17th May, Dyrham to Hawkesbury Upton 17th May, Hawkesbury Upton to North Nibley 18th May, North Nibley to Kings Stanley 19th May, Kings Stanley to Painswick Beacon 20th May, Painswick Beacon to Leckhampton Hill 21st May, Leckhampton Hill to Cleeve Hill 22nd May, Cleeve Hill to Hailes Abbey 23rd May, Hailes Abbey to Stanway House ( Launch of Cotswold Way National Trail) 24th May.

• The Cotswold Way National Trail is over 102 miles (164 kms) long with its starting point at Bath Abbey and end point at the Market Hall in Chipping Campden. National Trails provide some of the nations favourite rambles and rides, offering some of the best walking, riding and cycling experiences in the country. The Cotswold Way is a National Trail promoted for walkers.

• 26 patrollers from the Cotswold Way District of the Voluntary Wardens Service check the 102 mile walking trail on a monthly basis and report back to the Cotswold Way National Trail team on the condition of the route. The Cotswold Voluntary Wardens Service was formed in 1968, there are 340 Cotswold Voluntary Wardens and the service is part of the Cotswolds Conservation Board. The wardens have been leading guided walks in the AONB since 1975. Between them the wardens worked over 40,000 hours last year.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• With its rolling hills and valleys the Cotswolds is the largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

In addition a new £50,000 grant fund has been created to support local communities' efforts to tell people about the unique qualities of their village or town.

The additional grant funding has been released to support four key areas of conservation work as part of the Cotswolds Conservation Board's 'Caring for the Cotswolds Project', which is supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Extra cash will be available to help repair drystone walls, restore unimproved limestone grassland, create or conserve locally distinctive features and help communities promote the special qualities of their area.

In each case the Cotswolds Conservation Board will be offering grants, which will cover up to 50% of the costs of the project.

Project manager for Caring for the Cotswolds John Tabor said:

"The Cotswolds Conservation Board encourages people living and working within the area to help conserve and enhance the Cotswolds AONB and this is a great opportunity for people who may want to do that to get involved.

"The grant funding available will ensure projects that otherwise may never have taken place are carried out. Offering up to 50% of the cost of restoration work is a great way to encourage people to care for the Cotswolds".

The deadline for grant applications is 13th July 2007 and any grant aided work should be completed by October.

Ends

Notes to editors:

• Please contact the project officers below for more information: Drystone walling grants: Jonathan Gahan 01451 862002, Limestone grassland grants: Jenny Phelps 01451 862033, Local distinctiveness grants: John Tabor 01451 862032, Parish interpretation grants: Becky Smith 01451 862038.

• The additional funding available for the existing schemes is as follows: the drystone walling grant scheme is being extended to all areas of the AONB rather than being confined to target areas, the upper limit is being removed on project costs and grants for the local distinctiveness grant scheme, with £94,000 of funding available and the grassland restoration budget is being topped up with an add ional £90,000 to pump prime restoration work.

• Caring for the Cotswolds is a £2.8m project delivered by the Cotswolds Conservation Board, which ends in December. Supported by a £1.4m lottery grant, the five year project focuses on four interrelated areas all designed to practically conserve the Cotswolds. These are local distinctiveness, drystone walls, unimproved grassland and interpretation.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the17 local authorities within the AONB.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

In addition a new £50,000 grant fund has been created to support local communities' efforts to tell people about the unique qualities of their village or town.

The additional grant funding has been released to support four key areas of conservation work as part of the Cotswolds Conservation Board's 'Caring for the Cotswolds Project.'

Extra cash will be available to help repair drystone walls, restore unimproved limestone grassland, create or conserve locally distinctive features and help communities promote the special qualities of their area.

In each case the Cotswolds Conservation Board will be offering grants, which will cover up to 50% of the costs of the project.

Project manager for Caring for the Cotswolds John Tabor said:

"The Cotswolds Conservation Board encourages people living and working within the area to help conserve and enhance the Cotswolds AONB and this is a great opportunity for people who may want to do that to get involved.

"The grant funding available will ensure projects that otherwise may never have taken place are carried out. Offering up to 50% of the cost of restoration work is a great way to encourage people to care for the Costwolds".

The additonal funding available for the existing schemes is as follows:

the drystone walling grant scheme is being extended to all areas of the AONB rather than being confined to target areas, the upper limit is being removed on project costs and grants for the local distinctiveness grant scheme, with £94,000 of funding available and the grassland restoration budget is being topped up with an addional £90,000 to pump prime restoration work.

The deadline for grant applications is 13th July 2007 and any grant aided work should be completed by October.

Please contact the project officers below for more information. Double click on green heading for e-mail link:

Drystone walling grants: Jonathan Gahan 01451 862002

Limestone grassland grants: Jenny Phelps 01451 862033

Local distinctiveness grants: John Tabor 01451 862032

Parish interpretation grants: Becky Smith 01451 862038

The training courses are run as part of a 2.8 million pound project called 'Caring for the Cotswolds' and appeal to beginners wanting to take up the craft but they also offer those with a bit of walling 'know-how' the chance to hone their skills.

John Tabor who runs the Caring for the Cotswolds project said:

"Drystone walls are very much part of what makes the Cotswolds special because they are a key feature across the area. There are at least 4,000 miles of drystone walls in the AONB, ( as long as the great wall of China). Sadly many of them are in a derelict state but it's hoped that our walling courses will encourage people to maintain and restore them for future generations."

The courses will be held at a range of locations across the Cotswolds;

Long Compton - Warwickshire, Cud Hill near Painswick, Ilmington - Warwickshire, Broadway Worcestershire, Lansdown near Bath, Doughton near Tetbury, Coates near Cirencester, Leckhampton near Cheltenham, Shipton-under-Wychwood - West Oxfordshire.

Click here for walling dates.

Click here for a leaflet about rural skills courses and events in the Cotswolds AONB

For more information contact: Jonathan Gahan on 01451 862002 / 07841 663603

Hook Norton Brewery created Cotswold Lion Beer last year in celebration of the 40th Anniversary of the Cotswolds AONB, which was designated as a protected landscape back in 1966.

By donating 5p off the top of every bottle of the celebratory beer to conservation work in the AONB the brewery managed to raise £1,000, which it has donated to a newly formed charity, The Friends of the Cotswolds.

The 'Friends' is led by eight directors who will be aiming to secure donations and then allocate grants to projects in the Cotswolds.

This money will be invested in a wide range of projects, programmes and ideas that will help to: promote, enhance and conserve the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), raise awareness about the natural environment and provide activities and facilities within the natural environment to improve the quality of life in the AONB.

Managing Director of Hook Norton Brewery, James Clarke said:

" We take great pride in the fact the we are a steam powered brewery using traditional methods and many locally sourced materials, which significantly reduces the carbon footprint of every bottle of beer that we produce."

"We are proud of the brewery's local heritage and the fact that we are based in such a beautiful area and we want to put something back. Helping to fund conservation projects through the sale of Cotswold Lion Beer seems to be a fitting way to signal our commitment to the local environment."

Cotswold Lion Beer will be available again this year in bottles and on draught during May and June in selected Hook Norton pubs. Click here to visit the brewery website.

The Friends of the Cotswolds, was launched by the Cotswolds Conservation Board, the organisation that exists to conserve and enhance the Cotswolds AONB. Click here to see a leaflet about The Friends of the Cotswolds.

By donating 5p off the top of every bottle of the celebratory beer to conservation work in the AONB the brewery managed to raise £1,000, which it will be donating to a newly formed charity, The Friends of the Cotswolds. The 'Friends' is a new charity led by eight directors who will be aiming to secure donations and then allocate grants to projects that help conserve and enhance the Cotswolds AONB.

The media are invited to a photo call at Hook Norton Brewery on Tuesday April 24th at 1pm. The Managing Director of the brewery James Clarke will be officially presenting one of the eight directors of the Friends of the Cotswolds, Simon Randall with a big cheque for £1,000 and congratulating The Friends of the Cotswolds on their launch.

James Clarke said:

" We take great pride in the fact the we are a steam powered brewery using traditional methods and many locally sourced materials, which significantly reduces the carbon footprint of every bottle of beer that we produce."

"We are proud of the brewery's local heritage and the fact that we are based in such a beautiful area and we want to put something back. Helping to fund conservation projects through the sale of Cotswold Lion Beer seems to be a fitting way to signal our commitment to the local environment."

Cotswold Lion Beer will be available again this year in bottles and on draught during May and June in selected Hook Norton pubs. The beer will be available to taste at the press call and James Clarke will toast the newly launched Friends of the Cotswolds.

Ends

Notes to editors:

• Press photographers are encouraged to attend this photo call but pictures taken by our commercial photographer will also be available by the next day on request. Please contact Claire Cunningham on 01451 862003. claire.cunningham@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

• The Friends of the Cotswolds are eight directors who will raise funds through donations, appeals, campaigns and events. This money will be invested in a wide range of projects, programmes and ideas that will help to: promote, enhance and conserve the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), raise awareness about the natural environment and provide activities and facilities within the natural environment to improve the quality of life in the AONB. The Friends, was launched by the Cotswolds Conservation Board, the organisation that exists to conserve and enhance the Cotswolds AONB.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the 17 local authorities within the AONB.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

• Cotswold Lion Beer is 4.2% ABV, a pale fruity ale with a citrus / lime aroma and hopped only with fuggles. It is the first single hop varietal beer to be brewed by Hook Norton. For more information about Hook Norton Brewery visit: www.hooky.co.uk

Contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

More than 50% of the UK's total remaining Jurassic limestone grasslands are in the AONB and so their conservation is a high priority.

Wildflower grassland sites containing rare species of animals and plants are managed landscapes and can only thrive if scrub is kept at bay through grazing. The new grant funding will be used by the organisation that exists to oversee the Cotswolds AONB, the Cotswolds Conservation Board, to ensure that a range of grassland sites in the area are managed sustainably. This will be achieved through partnership working with conservation groups, farmers and land owners.

The extra funding is available through the Board's five-year 'Caring for the Cotswolds' Project which will come to a close in December. The £2.8m project has been supported by a £1.4m grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Grasslands Officer for the Caring for the Cotswolds Project, Jenny Phelps said:

"The additional funding is most welcome and will enable us to offer more grants to landowners and partner organisations to allow further conservation work to take place. Applications are welcome on all the 96 limestone grassland sites targeted by the project, 20 of which are Sites of Special Scientific Interest. This is a great opportunity for us to help complete some of the complex work on common land that has already been taking place."

The deadline for grant applications is 13th July 2007 and any grant aided work should be completed by October.

For more information please contact: Jenny Phelps on 01451 862033 / 07841 663604.

Ends

Notes to editors:

• The Caring for the Cotswolds project is also offering additional grant funding for the repair of drystone walls, the conservation or creation of locally distinctive features in Cotswold villages and towns and the development of interpretative material to help communities explain features of local interest to visitors

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the17 local authorities within the AONB.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The local distinctiveness scheme which is delivered by the Cotswolds Conservation Board's 'Caring for the Cotswolds Project' provides a grant which covers up to 50% of the costs of any work carried out.

Eligible projects must conserve and enhance local heritage or focus on installing new features which reflect local distinctiveness. These could include; milestones, signs, gate posts, memorials, seats, railings, pumps and wells, in fact anything that helps to make a local area special.

Project manager for Caring for the Cotswolds John Tabor said;

"The Cotswolds Conservation Board works to help communities conserve and enhance the Cotswolds AONB and this is a great opportunity for people to identify features in their village or town that could benefit from a grant and apply. Applications for new features which reflect the character of the area in their design are also very welcome."

The Caring for the Cotswolds project is also offering additional grant funding for the repair of drystone walls, the conservation or creation of locally distinctive features in Cotswold villages and towns, grassland restoration and the development of interpretative material to help communities explain features of local interest to visitors

The deadline for grant applications is 13th July 2007 and any grant aided work should be completed by October.

For more information please contact: Jonathan Gahan: 01451 862002 / John Tabor: 01451 862032.

Ends

Notes to editors:

• The local distinctiveness scheme is part of a larger £2.8m project delivered by the Cotswolds Conservation Board called, 'Caring for the Cotswolds', which ends in December. Supported by a £1.4m lottery grant, the five year project focuses on four interrelated areas all designed to practically conserve the Cotswolds. These are local distinctiveness, drystone walls, unimproved grassland and interpretation.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the17 local authorities within the AONB.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The organisation that exists to oversee the Cotswolds AONB is encouraging communities to apply for a new grant that will fund up to 50% of the cost of a small scale interpretation scheme.

The grant is being provided as part of the 'Caring for the Cotswolds Project', which is supported by a 1.4M grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

From historic buildings to interesting landscape features, many areas in the Cotswolds have a story to tell and this is a chance for local people who know their area well to tell others about the things that make their parts of the AONB special.

To be eligible for the grant the project must be within the AONB and help promote a better understanding and appreciation of the Cotswolds landscape, the need to conserve it and should explain what it has to offer to residents and visitors.

John Tabor, manager of the Caring for the Cotswolds Project said:

"This is a fantastic opportunity for those who feel connected to the Cotswolds landscape to channel their enthusiasm and get involved in a project that will benefit their area by encouraging people to enjoy and appreciate its unique qualities. Tourism is a major source of income in the Cotswolds with around 38 million day visits to the area each year and so local communities will certainly reap the benefits of their efforts if they take part."

Proposals can be: web-based interpretation, leaflets or interpretation boards.

All applications should be received by the Cotswolds Conservation Board no later than Friday 13 July 2007 and any grant aided work should be completed by October.

For more information contact: John Tabor 01451 862032/Becky Smith 01451 862038

Ends

Notes to editors

• The Caring for the Cotswolds Project is also offering additional grant funding for the repair of drystone walls, the conservation or creation of locally distinctive features in Cotswold villages and towns and grassland restoration.

• 'Caring for the Cotswolds' is a five year project supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund based on four interrelated areas of work. They are drystone walls, unimproved grassland, local distinctiveness and interpretation all of which reflect the key characteristics of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

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

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is the largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. It covers 2038 sq kilometres (790 sq miles), stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, down to Bath and Wiltshire in the south.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board, Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire. GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 86200 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The Cotswolds AONB is a designated landscape, equal in status to a National Park and stretches from south Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through West Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire and takes in parts of north Wiltshire and the area surrounding Bath.

The grants cover up to 50% of the wall repairs but the actual percentage will depend on the prominence of the wall and the benefits to the public of repairing it.

John Tabor from the Caring for the Cotswolds Project said:

"Dry stone walls are a vitally important feature in the Cotswolds landscape and we are delighted to be able to extend the grants scheme to the whole of the AONB. Landowners in earlier target areas welcomed the financial support and the grants have enabled many to complete work that would not have been carried out had the grants not been available."

The Caring for the Cotswolds project is also offering additional grant funding for the restoration of limestone grassland, the conservation or creation of locally distinctive features in Cotswold villages and towns and the development of interpretative material to help communities explain features of local interest to visitors.

The deadline for grant applications is 13th July 2007 and any grant aided work should be completed by October.

For more information contact: Jonathan Gahan: 01451 862002 / 07841 663603 or John Tabor: 01451 862032.

Ends

Notes for editors:

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board works to encourage the rural skill of dry stone walling. During the summer months the Board holds a series of two day dry stone walling training courses across the AONB. We also work alongside partner organisations to subsidise walling courses run by Stroud College and Witney College, which are held at the Ebworth Estate near Stroud and at the Cornbury Estate in West Oxfordshire.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the 17 local authorities within the AONB.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The training courses are run as part of a 2.8 million pound project called 'Caring for the Cotswolds' and appeal to beginners wanting to take up the craft but they also offer those with a bit of walling 'know-how' the chance to hone their skills.

John Tabor who runs the Caring for the Cotswolds project said:

"Drystone walls are very much part of what makes the Cotswolds special because they are a key feature across the area. There are at least 4,000 miles of drystone walls in the AONB, ( as long as the great wall of China). Sadly many of them are in a derelict state but it's hoped that our walling courses will encourage people to maintain and restore them for future generations."

The courses will be held at a range of locations across the Cotswolds;

Long Compton - Warwickshire, Cud Hill near Painswick, Ilmington - Warwickshire, Broadway Worcestershire, Lansdown near Bath, Doughton near Tetbury, Coates near Cirencester, Leckhampton near Cheltenham, Shipton-under-Wychwood - West Oxfordshire.

A detailed list of walling dates has been sent as a separate attachment.

For more information contact: Jonathan Gahan on 01451 862002 / 07841 663603

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board works to support rural skills across the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). In addition to drystone walling courses the Board offers hedgelaying courses and runs annual drystone walling and hedgelaying competitions. The Board is also working in partnership with two colleges in the AONB to provide drystone waling apprenticeship schemes. For more information please contact Jonathan Gahan on 01451 862002.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the 17 local authorities within the AONB.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Courses will be held at:

Great Rissington

Nov 22nd & 23rd

Nov 29th & 30th

Ebrington

Jan 17th & 18th 2009

Calmsden

February 7th and 8th 2009

Click here for an online application form.

For further information, please telephone Mark Connelly on 01451 862006

There will be a short presentation about the project and a buffet lunch will be provided.

Please phone 0117 9349833 to confirm attendance.

Background:

The Cotswolds Hedgerow Project run by the Bristol Regional Environmental Records Centre (BRERC) in Bristol was part funded by a Sustainable Development Fund grant of just over £18,000 from the organisation that exists to oversee the Cotswolds AONB, the Cotswolds Conservation Board. The project also received funding through the Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund and was supported by volunteer labour.

Over 60 volunteers took part in the survey and all the information collected has been collated into three parish maps, showing the diversity and distribution of hedgerow species and local wildlife. The maps also provide sustainable management advice for all hedgerows in each parish and will also be available on the BRERC website: www.brerc.org.uk.

The Cotswolds Hedgerow Project run by the Bristol Regional Environmental Records Centre (BRERC) in Bristol was part funded by a Sustainable Development Fund grant of just over £18,000 from the organisation that exists to oversee the Cotswolds AONB, the Cotswolds Conservation Board. The project also received funding through the Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund and was supported by volunteer labour.

Over 60 volunteers took part in the survey and all the information collected has been collated into three parish maps, showing the diversity and distribution of hedgerow species and local wildlife. The maps also provide sustainable management advice for all hedgerows in each parish and will also be available on the BRERC website: www.brerc.org.uk.

Jo Illsley Illsley spokeswoman for BRERC said:

"We hope the maps show how important it is to collect wildlife data and what a variety of species live all around us. Hedgerows are such an integral feature of our landscape that is important we do all we can to conserve them."

The hedges surveyed were in the parishes of: Doynton, Dyrham and Hinton, Little Sodbury, Sodbury, Charlcombe, Bathampton, Southstoke, Freshford, Claverton and Combe Hay.

Ends

Notes to editors:

• All the hedgerow survey maps will be on display at Marshfield Community Centre on Tuesday 20th March between 12 and 2pm. There will be a short presentation about the project and a buffet lunch will be provided. Please phone 0117 9349833 to confirm attendance.

• Hedgerows are an integral part of the Cotswolds landscape and provide a habitat for many species of conservation concern. They are a UK BAP priority habitat and especially important for invertebrates, birds, bats, dormice, reptiles and amphibians and provide and essential refuge for woodland and farmland birds. The also act as ' wildlife corridors' allowing species to move between habitats. This ability to move may prove essential for the survival of species when temperatures change as the result of global warming.

• The Sustainable Development Fund (SDF) is delivered locally by the Cotswolds Conservation Board and co-ordinated by Natural England on Behalf of Defra. SDF supports projects that bring local environmental and economic benefits to the Cotswolds. It aims to develop and test new methods of achieving a more sustainable way of life. Individuals or businesses can qualify for a grant as long as their project shows a benefit to the wider community. For more information contact Anne Powell on 01451 862035.

• The Bristol Regional Environmental Records Centre (BRERC) collects, stores and distributes wildlife data about the former Avon area. They have several million records in paper format and about a million available on a computerised database. BREC provides data that helps to determine the status and distribution of species and habitats, locally, regionally and nationally. Their data is also used to report to government on regional and national biodiversity habitats. Find out more at: www.brerc.org.uk.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the 17 local authorities within the AONB.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Contact: Jo Illsley Tel: 0117 934 9833

Bristol Regional Environmental Records Centre (BRERC), Third Floor, Bristol Central Library, College Green, Bristol, BS1 5TL www.brerc.org.uk

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Pupils at Holy Trinity RC Primary School in Chipping Norton, which is in the AONB, and Barley Hill Primary School in Thame won prizes in an art competition which invited children aged five to 11 to paint and draw their favourite views in the county.

To mark their achievements, the Cotswolds Conservation Board, the organisation that exists to oversee the Cotswolds AONB, presented each school with a native broad-leafed sapling tree to be planted in their grounds and both chose a Bird Cherry (Prunus Padus).

The winning artwork, judged by landscape experts from across Europe, was displayed at Oxford Town Hall as part of the European Federation of Protected Areas conference, Europarc2006.

In each of the two age group categories (5 to 7 and 8 to 11) the first prize was £70 and a year's free membership to Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust. The second prize was £35 and the third prize was £20. Pupils from Holy Trinity scooped two prizes in each category. Maddy Cullen (aged 9) won the first prize in the 8 to 11 group with a painting of the Uffington White Horse, while Georgina Allen (aged 9) came second with her painting of Bliss Mill at Chipping Norton.

In the 5 to 7 group Bethany Tanner (aged 6) came second with a painting of the Rollright Stones and a painting of rolling hills by Kay Van Blerk (aged 6) was third. Sophie Crowe (aged 11) from Barley Hill School came third in the 8 to 11 group with her picture called Tadpole River.

Bernadette May, Head Teacher at Holy Trinity RC Primary School, said:

"The pupils and staff are delighted with the Bird Cherry tree, which has been planted in grounds at the front of the school.

"It is a lovely way to recognise the children's achievements in the art competition, and will also remind us all how important it is to look after our countryside."

Harry Cox, a student at Harper Adams University College who is on a student placement with the Cotswolds Conservation Board, organised the presentation of the trees to the winning schools.

Harry said:

"The Board was delighted to be involved in the competition as it was an effective way to make young people aware of the importance of preserving the natural beauty of their environment."

There were a number of festivities to mark this latest addition to the network of National Trails, which provide more than 2,500 miles of the nation's favourite rambles and rides, offering some of the best walking, horse riding and cycling experiences in the country.

During peak months more than 40,000 visitors and local people enjoy the stunning views from the Cotswolds route which follows the Cotswolds escarpment from Chipping Campden in the north to Bath Abbey in the south.

Sir Martin Doughty, Chair of Natural England, DEFRA's new delivery agency said:

"Natural England is delighted to have been involved in the creation of the Cotswold Way, England's newest National Trail. We gratefully acknowledge the hard work by many people over a number of years to realise this ambition.

"The Cotswold Way National Trail passes through a significant landscape of national importance and its completion provides a quality walking experience that will give pleasure to visitors from near and far.

"It will unlock, to many, a quintessential English landscape, passing through villages characteristic of the Cotswolds together with many sites of historical and wildlife interest."

Work has been going on for a number of years to prepare the route for National Trail status, including the introduction of new sections of route, safer road crossings, improved accessibility on the trail and many other first class improvements to meet the demanding National Trail Quality Standards.

Jo Ronald, the Cotswold Way National Trail Officer, said:

"Visitors will notice a number of obvious improvements, such as improved signage using the National Trail's acorn symbol and better access.

"And there are drainage improvements, safer road crossings, central road refuges and warning signs for motorists.

"Although we have carried out much work on the Cotswold Way, we have taken care to preserve its character and have made sure that materials we have used have been sympathetic to the local environment. We have been careful to restore and protect historical features such as stone stiles and stone bridges.

"In fact, at one location we even recovered coping stones from a river so that we could restore a bridge using its original material!"

Behind the scenes the National Trail team has been busy securing permanent rights of way along the trail from landowners who had previously granted 'permissive' rights for walkers.

A new set of trail information has been produced to help people plan their walks, including the Trail Guide which contains Ordnance Survey base maps (published by Autumn), and public transport information leaflets, Walk and explore The Cotswold Way National Trail by public transport (produced in partnership with the Cotswolds Conservation Board).

Information about accommodation and local services along the new trail, as well as how to plan walks, is contained in the Trail Companion and is also available on the official website www.nationaltrail.co.uk (visit the website for full details of these publications and how to get hold of them as they become available).

Improved safety and a better experience

Route changes and new sections of route on the Cotswold Way National Trail include:

To secure safer road crossings:

• Fish Hill, Broadway (A44)

• Dowdeswell (A40)

• Severn Springs (A435)

• Edge (A4173)

• Tormarton (M4/A46)

To reduce the amount of road walking or avoid sections of busy road:

• Winchcombe to Belas Knap

• Wistley Hill to Severn Springs, east of Cheltenham

• Cam Long Down to Dursley

• Frith Wood to the Somerset Monument at Hawkesbury Upton

• Horton Court (east of) to Horton

• Tormarton to Tormarton Picnic Area

• Gorse Lane, south of Dyrham

• Bath - Primrose Hill

To improve the quality of experience for walkers:

• Belas Knap to Cleeve Hill - new route due to open during 2007

• Ryeford to Middleyard via the Stroudwater Navigation and Selsley Common (near Kings Stanley), offering a choice of routes for walkers

• Coaley Wood

• Stinchcombe Hill

• Bath Royal Victoria Park to Bath Abbey

The Board will help cover the cost of course fees by administering grant funding from the West Oxfordshire Network Leader + Programme, the Heritage Lottery Fund and The Ernest Cook Trust. The subsidy will reduce a £700 fee per student to a charge of just £150.

Walling students will be taught by members of the Drystone Walling Association of Great Britain and gain a Lantra Level 2 certificate which is a nationally recognised qualification.

Steve Billcliffe, Director of Development for Abingdon and Witney College, said that the college welcomed the support that the Cotswold Conservation Board is able to offer students:

"This innovative course will be attractive to many adult learners in the area and will help the rural economy of West Oxfordshire as well as preserve vital countryside skills for future generations."

It is hoped that local wallers and landowners will employ the trainees to help with their walls outside official course hours. Two sets of courses are to be held this year, one starting on 13th April and the other on 7th September.

For more information or to enrol on the course please contact:

Abingdon and Witney College's Admissions Office at Witney Campus on 01993 208110 or email enquiry@abingdon-witney.ac.uk

This year the Cotswolds Conservation Board will join forces with three grant funding bodies to help subsidise dry stone walling courses run by Abingdon and Witney College on the Cornbury Estate.

The Board will help cover the cost of course fees by administering grant funding from the West Oxfordshire Network Leader + Programme, the Heritage Lottery Fund and The Ernest Cook Trust. The subsidy will reduce a £700 fee per student to a charge of just £150.

Walling students will be taught by members of the Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain and gain a Lantra Level 2 certificate which is a nationally recognised qualification.

Steve Billcliffe, Director of Development for Abingdon and Witney College, said that the college welcomed the support that the Cotswold Conservation Board is able to offer students:

"This innovative course will be attractive to many adult learners in the area and will help the rural economy of West Oxfordshire as well as preserve vital countryside skills for future generations."

It is hoped that local wallers and landowners will employ the trainees to help with their walls outside official course hours. Two sets of courses are to be held this year, one starting on 13th April and the other on 7th September.

For more information or to enrol on the course please contact Abingdon and Witney College's Admissions Office at Witney Campus on 01993 208110 or email enquiry@abingdon-witney.ac.uk

Ends

Notes to editors:

• This is not the first time that the Cotswolds Conservation Board has subsidised rural skills course fees in this way. For the past two years, the Board has been working in partnership with the National Trust, Stroud College and the Cotswold branch of the Dry Stone Walling Association to subsidise dry stone walling course at the Ebworth Estate near Stroud.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the17 local authorities within the AONB.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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 Leader + Programme is administered by West Oxfordshire Network, a partnership of local businesses, government and community organisations. They are able to offer grants of up to 50% of costs for innovative community-led projects, which meet local needs.

• Abingdon and Witney College has recently completed a £2.7m development at its rural skills centre, Common Leys Farm, near Hailey. New teaching facilities have been built for Animal Care, Horticulture and Conservation Skills as well as a refurbishment project for the existing Equine School and Stud Farm.

Press contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The listing, which is available on the Board's website gives people the opportunity to discover more about the rich cultural heritage of the area. From taking part in the precarious practice of cheese rolling at Coopers Hill in May to racing ducks in Bibury on Boxing day, there is something for everybody to enjoy.

Members of the public can find the listing in the events section of the AONB's website www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk.

The Cotswolds AONB is a designated landscape, protected by law which covers 790 sq miles and takes in parts of five counties and two unitary authorities; Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, South Gloucestershire and Bath and North East Somerset.

The Cotswolds Conservation Board exists primarily to conserve and enhance the AONB and encourage people to understand and enjoy it but in fulfilling those roles has a secondary responsibility to seek to foster the social and economic well-being of local communities.

Ends

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the 17 local authorities within the AONB.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Contact: Claire Cunningham

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

One of the Board's duties is to administer the Sustainable Development Fund (SDF), a grant scheme that helps local communities look after the Cotswolds AONB.

The fund supports projects that bring, social environmental and economic benefits to the Cotswolds. It aims to develop and test new ways of achieving a more sustainable way of life and up to £90,000 is available in the fund each year to explore and develop practical projects that conserve, enhance and develop the environment, economy and way of life.

The event will take place on Friday March 2nd at Huddinknoll Hill Common, Nr Edge, Stroud between 10.30am and 12.30pm. Map ref: (SO847106). Parking is limited.

Speakers will reveal how the allocation of an SDF grant allowed a private landowner to restore wrought iron park railings, a threatened locally distinctive historic feature of the Cotswolds AONB.

The restoration of the common's boundary is part of a wider project, co-ordinated by the Cotswolds Conservation Board, and supported by Natural England and Gloucestershire Environment Trust. The project is working towards the sustainable management of wildflower grassland on the common, by enabling the re-introduction of grazing through the local farming community.

Ends

Agenda for the day:

10.30 Introduction: Jenny Phelps Caring for the Cotswolds Project (Project Officer CCB*)

10.40 Talk on the Sustainable Development Fund: Anne Powell (SDF Officer CCB*)

11.00 Talk on the history of park railings and a demonstration of restoration : John Burgess (Cotswold Forge)

11.30 Talk on how the Cotswold Wardens can help landowners: John Millington MBE (Member of the CCB)

11.45 Walk around the common lead by Jenny Phelps (CCB) and Nicki Jameson (Natural England) to demonstrate the sustainable management of limestone grassland and common land through structured, supported local delivery and partnership working.

12.30 End

(*Cotswolds Conservation Board)

Notes for editors:

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the17 local authorities within the AONB.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Contact: Claire Cunningham or Jenny Phelps

Tel: 01451 862000

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Three important lowland limestone grassland sites in the Painswick area are now being managed so that they can support a range of rare plants, butterflies and other invertebrates.

Grassland sites containing rare species are managed landscapes and can only thrive if scrub is kept at bay through grazing.

The project encourages farmers at Juniper Hill SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest), Cud Hill and Huddinknoll Hill Commons to graze their cattle on the land so that grass and scrubland is kept short enough for rare wild flower species to flourish.

Cattle grids, water supplies and fencing have been installed and Welsh Black cattle from the National Trust Grazing Animals Project are carrying out the first phase of restoration grazing on Juniper Hill. Local farmers have offered to graze all of the sites in the future.

Paul Hackman who is Natural England's Cotswolds representative said:

"After more than 30 years of neglect, Natural England is delighted that livestock are once more grazing Juniper Hill. The Common has become choked with coarse grasses and scrub encroachment but grazing is the key to restoring the grassland and the diverse fauna and flora that rely on it."

Huddinknoll Hill near Painswick is an area of limestone grassland last grazed by the Burcombe family in the 1920's. Now Geoff Burcombe, the latest generation to run the family farm, has agreed to put some of his beef herd to graze on the land once again.

He said: "I remember as a boy seeing butterflies and flowers on Huddinknoll Hill but there are none now. I am pleased to be taking part in the grassland grazing scheme because we want to do our bit and help bring these species back to the Cotswolds."

Members of the public will now be able to enjoy the open nature of the grassland sites and the spectacular views of the Painswick Valley.

Three important lowland limestone grassland sites in the Painswick area are now being managed so that they can support a range of rare plants, butterflies and other invertebrates.

Grassland sites containing rare species are managed landscapes and can only thrive if scrub is kept at bay through grazing.

The project encourages farmers at Juniper Hill SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest), Cud Hill and Huddinknoll Hill Commons to graze their cattle on the land so that grass and scrubland is kept short enough for rare wild flower species to flourish.

Cattle grids, water supplies and fencing have been installed and Welsh Black cattle from the National Trust Grazing Animals Project are carrying out the first phase of restoration grazing on Juniper Hill. Local farmers have offered to graze all of the sites in the future.

Paul Hackman who is Natural England's Cotswolds representative said:

"After more than 30 years of neglect, Natural England is delighted that livestock are once more grazing Juniper Hill. The Common has become choked with coarse grasses and scrub encroachment but grazing is the key to restoring the grassland and the diverse fauna and flora that rely on it."

Huddinknoll Hill near Painswick is an area of limestone grassland last grazed by the Burcombe family in the 1920's. Now Geoff Burcombe, the latest generation to run the family farm, has agreed to put some of his beef herd to graze on the land once again.

He said: "I remember as a boy seeing butterflies and flowers on Huddinknoll Hill but there are none now. I am pleased to be taking part in the grassland grazing scheme because we want to do our bit and help bring these species back to the Cotswolds."

Members of the public will now be able to enjoy the open nature of the grassland sites and the spectacular views of the Painswick Valley.

Ends

Notes to editors:

• This project is the culmination of partnership working between Natural England and the Cotswolds Conservation Board and the local community, with the help Painswick Parish Council, Gloucestershire Highways and the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the17 local authorities within the AONB.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

• Natural England is a delivery agency for Defra and has been formed by bringing together English Nature, the landscape, access and recreation elements of the Countryside Agency and the environmental land management functions of the Rural Development Service. The organisation works for people, places and nature to conserve and enhance biodiversity, landscapes and wildlife in rural, urban, coastal and marine areas. Natural England conserves and enhances the natural environment for its intrinsic value, the wellbeing and enjoyment of people, and the economic prosperity it brings. The organisation promotes access and recreation and contributes to the sustainable management of our natural resources. For more information visit www.naturalengland.org.uk

Contact: Claire Cunningham or Jenny Phelps

Tel: 01451 862000

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The village of Kingscote, south of Gloucester is no exception, its churchyard wall was crumbling before a team of people took time out to reverse the decay and rebuild a stretch of drystone wall over 30 meters long. Not only that but they threw in a beautiful new gate for good measure.

So who are they? The Cotswold Voluntary Wardens are a 350 strong army of volunteers who give up many hours of their time every year to care for the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, (AONB).

Last year, a small team of wardens gave Kingscote Churchyard their undivided attention and to celebrate the completion of the restoration work they took part in a church service. This was followed by a thanksgiving celebration party at the wall.

Noel Banks who's work party co-ordinator for the team of wardens who carried out the work said:

" This is what the wardens service is all about, giving our time to care for the Cotswolds landscape and all that sits in it. Wardens love being out in the open and a lot of care and attention goes into our work."

Founded in 1968 the Wardens Service works to repair Cotswold drystone walls, keep access routes open by installing gates, steps and bridges and much, much more; because they all know the lie of the land Wardens conduct hundreds of guided walks every year and make an appearance at many of the summer shows which take place across the Cotswolds.

When they are not busy helping people to understand the Cotswolds countryside you can find teams of wardens helping to manage woodland, lay hedges and plant trees.

The Wardens service is the voluntary arm of the Cotswold Conservation Board, the organisation which exists to conserve and enhance the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Managing Director of Hook Norton Brewery James Clarke said:

" Cotswold Lion beer has been a great success and we're very keen to keep producing it. We will continue to support the AONB with 5p off every bottle going to conservation work in the Cotswolds".

The beer, which will be available on tap in selected pubs in May and June is named after the traditional breed of Cotswold sheep, once known as the Cotswold Lion due to its long 'lion-like' mane. Cotswold Lions are descended from the sheep that were brought to the area in Roman times.

The fleece of the Cotswold sheep produced the wool that ensured a booming wool trade in the Cotswolds and England from the middle ages onwards.

Free farm conservation advice, school and community awareness talks and farm visits, farmer workshops and the restoration of water meadows will be carried out over the next few months.

The project will focus on wading birds, living and breeding around the rivers Windrush and Evenlode, between Bourton-on-the-Water, Burford and Leafield.

Drew McVey, RSPB Lapwing Landscapes, said:

"Thanks to the Cotswolds Conservation Board we can really work together with Gloucestershire's farmers and communities to boost some of the UK's finest wild birds."

The Conservation Board helped fund the project through the Sustainable Development Fund, a grant scheme administered by the Board and funded by DEFRA through Natural England. Almost anyone can apply but successful projects will have been able to demonstrate a principle of sustainability and a central aim to help conserve and enhance the AONB.

Claire Cunningham, spokesperson for the Cotswolds Conservation Board said:

"The Lapwing Landscape project is a really positive use of Sustainable Development Fund money because it helps to protect one of the Cotswolds Conservation Board's priority species. The Board is working to reverse the decline in farmland birds, like Lapwings, by encouraging traditional management of arable crops to provide better habitat. Sustainability is all about achieving a living balance between our needs and that of the environment and anything that works towards this is a step in the right direction."

Farmers in the project area interested in restoring their land for breeding waders should contact Drew McVey, RSPB Lapwing Landscapes, on 01865 352035 or drew.mcvey@rspb.org.uk

The competition was held courtesy of courtesy of M.A Richards (Hawling) LTD and is kindly supported by the Dry Stone Walling Association. For more information visit; http://www.dswa.org.uk/

Click below to see competition results:

Nine rural champions are basking in the glory of knowing that they came out top of their class in the North Cotswolds Hedgelaying Competition.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW RESULTS

HEALTHY COMPETITION

Spurred on by the late autumn sunshine, 32 people took part in the annual competition, which was held on Saturday November 18th on the Daylesford Estate by kind permission of Sir Anthony and Lady Bamford.

Organised by the Cotswolds Conservation Board and supported by the National Hedgelaying Society the competition saw participants from across the UK pitting their skills against each other in four classes, designed to match their abilities; Open, Veteran, Junior Beginners and Novice and Beginners pairs.

The winner of the Open class, Andrew Holding from Staffordshire said:

" I don't lay hedges professionally any more and so taking part in a competition like this is a great way for me to keep my skills up to scratch. I was competing against some of the top cutters in the hedgelaying circuit and I so am very proud to have won."

Prize money and trophies were awarded to the winners of each four categories, and five additional 'best in class' awards were given out. (Best Lady Hedgelayer, Best Regrowth Open, Best Regrowth Junior Beginners, Best Regrowth Veteran, Best Regrowth Overall).

COURSES

The Cotswolds Conservation Board runs an annual programme of two day hedgelaying training courses at a cost of £55. The beginners course covers the basics of hedgelaying in the Midlands style including clearing, trimming, cutting and laying the pleacher, staking and binding.

The courses take place: at Great Rissington near Bourton-on-the-Water on January 13th & 14th and February 3rd & 4th.

For further information contact: Harry Cox 01451 862000

Spurred on by the late autumn sunshine, 32 people took part in the annual event, which was held on Saturday November 18th on the Daylesford Estate by kind permission of Sir Anthony and Lady Bamford.

Organised by the Cotswolds Conservation Board and supported by the National Hedgelaying Society the competition saw participants from across the UK pitting their skills against each other in four classes, designed to match their abilities; Open, Veteran, Junior Beginners and Novice and Beginners pairs.

The winner of the Open class, Andrew Holding from Staffordshire said:

" I don't lay hedges professionally any more and so taking part in a competition like this is a great way for me to keep my skills up to scratch. I was competing against some of the top cutters in the hedgelaying circuit and I so am very proud to have won."

Prize money and trophies were awarded to the winners of each four categories, and five additional 'best in class' awards were given out. (Best Lady Hedgelayer, Best Regrowth Open, Best Regrowth Junior Beginners, Best Regrowth Veteran, Best Regrowth Overall).

ENDS

Notes to editors:

A full list of classes and winners accompanies this press release as a separate word attachment.

The Daylesford Estate is located between Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping

Norton. For further information contact: Mark Connelly Tel: 01451 862006 Mobile: 07841 663606

The Cotswolds Conservation Board runs an annual programme of two day hedgelaying training courses at a cost of £55. The beginners course covers the basics of hedgelaying in the Midlands style including clearing, trimming, cutting and laying the pleacher, staking and binding. This year's courses take place: near Guiting Power November 25th & 26th and December 2nd & 3rd and at Great Rissington near Bourton-on-the-Water on January 13th & 14th and February 3rd & 4th.

For further information contact: Harry Cox 01451 862000

Cotswolds AONB fact file

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the

Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members,

17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 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 largest of 40 AONBs

in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special

character are conserved. 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 Conservation Board is celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty this year. Designated in1966, the AONB

has benefited from four decades of protected status.

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosse Way, Northleach Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Founded in 2004 the Board works to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the Cotswolds AONB and to increase public understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the area. In fulfilling these roles the Board must foster the social and economic well-being of local communities.

Board members are responsible for making decisions which directly affect the Cotswolds. Of the 40 members, 15 are appointed by the Environment Secretary and David Miliband has encouraged people to apply for the new position.

Chairman of the Cotswolds Conservation Board Niel Curwen said:

" This is a fascinating opportunity for someone who is interested in helping to make key decisions about the Cotswolds. Board members have the opportunity to help shape perceptions about the importance of conservation issues in the area and can use their influence and abilities to help ensure that the AONB is conserved in a sustainable way".

Candidates will understand the concept and practice of sustainable development and will be drawn from a broad range of backgrounds. Applications are particularly encouraged from members of ethnic minorities, young people and disabled people.

The applications process has now closed and the appointment will start in the Spring of 2007.

A pot of money is available for local projects that help to make the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) a better place to live. Local communities, individuals and businesses are invited to apply for a grant from The Sustainable Development Fund, (SDF) which is delivered by the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

Anne Powell, Sustainable Development Fund Officer at the Conservation Board, said;

"Projects which further the environmental, social or economic development of the AONB; and increase understanding and enjoyment of the Cotswolds' special qualities are particularly suited to funding. We are keen to support new ideas which have the backing of the community and the money allows us to encourage new ideas and experimental projects which can really have long-term benefits for the AONB."

Anyone can apply for one of the grants, which can fund up to 75% of the costs of a project and in exceptional cases 100% may be given to voluntary bodies. Grants can range from a few hundred pounds to a maximum of £25,000.

The Sustainable Development Fund was introduced to the Cotswolds last year and has proved extremely popular with a variety of organisations and projects benefitting from grants.

Recent Projects include a new farm plastics recycling business, a woodland classroom at a Cotswolds primary school and a restored village green and wildflower meadow.

The Cotswolds Conservation Board is keen to hear from anybody who is interested in applying for a grant including individuals, groups, businesses, local authorities and charities about schemes that they may have considered but have never had money to develop.

The Sustainable Development Fund is financed by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and managed by the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

For an application form and more details contact Anne Powell at the Conservation Board on 01451 862000 or visit www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

ENDS

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

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

• This year the Cotswolds Conservation Board is celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the AONB, which became a protected landscape back in 1966.

Contact: Anne Powell. Tel: 01451 862000 (Mondays and Thursdays)

Cotswolds Conservation Board Fosseway Northleach Gloucestershire GL54 3JH Tel: 01451 862000

Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The organisation that exists to conserve and enhance the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the Cotswolds Conservation Board, is looking for a new Board member.

Founded in 2004 the Board works to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the AONB and to increase public understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the area. In fulfilling these roles the Board must foster the social and economic well-being of local communities.

Board members are responsible for making decisions which directly affect the Cotswolds. Of the 40 members, 15 are appointed by the Environment Secretary and David Miliband has encouraged people to apply for the new position.

Chairman of the Cotswolds Conservation Board Niel Curwen said:

" This is a fascinating opportunity for someone who is interested in helping to make key decisions about the Cotswolds. Board members have the opportunity to help shape perceptions about the importance of conservation issues in the area and can use their influence and abilities to help ensure that the AONB is conserved in a sustainable way".

Candidates will understand the concept and practice of sustainable development and will be drawn from a broad range of backgrounds. Applications are particularly encouraged from members of ethnic minorities, young people and disabled people.

The appointment will start in the Spring of 2007.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

The closing date for applications is 6th November 2006.

Application forms and further details are online at http://www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/appointments/index.htm

or available from Carol Foster, The Countryside Agency, John Dower House, Cresent Place, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 3RA.

Tel:01242 533284; Fax: 01242 584270; e-mail: carol.foster@countryside.gov.uk

The posts are unpaid and are classed as being voluntary. However there is a basic annual allowance which increases if you become a member of a sub-committee.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

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

• This year the Cotswolds Conservation Board is celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the AONB, which became a protected landscape back in 1966.

Contact: Claire Cunningham. Tel: 01451 862000

Cotswolds Conservation Board, Fosseway, Northleach, Gloucestershire. GL54 3JH Tel: 01451 862000

Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The theme for the conference was 'living, working landscapes' and delegates discussed the way that protected landscapes can be successfully managed to meet the increasingly diverse needs of people, conservation, tourism, rural industries, recreation and agriculture.

Martin Lane Director of the Cotswolds Conservation Board said:

"This is an opportunity for decision makers from across the European conservation sector to find out about the way that people live and work within protected landscapes in the UK. We hope that the examples that they see on their site visits to the Cotswolds inform their thinking and perhaps some of the decisions that they make in the future".

Delegates were offered the opportunity to visit a range of locations in the AONB and examine the various issues affecting the local landscape and communities. From exploring the cultural value of protected areas at Blenheim Palace to examining ways of ensuring that development fits with the objectives of protected landscapes in Northleach, the whole gamut of issues that affect AONBs in 2006 was discussed.

One of the site visits focused on the National Trust run Sherborne Estate. Delegates discussed ways in which the quality of life could be protected for rural communities in protected areas. The focus of the day was a tour around the 17th Century deer coursing grandstand, Lodge Park followed by a discussion with tenant farmers about the way that the trust had helped them to diversify and an examination of the challenges that they currently face.

The conference and further site visits were co-hosted by two other AONBs in Oxfordshire, the Chilterns and North Wessex Downs.

Click here find out more about Europarcs 2006

The local distinctiveness scheme which is delivered by the Cotswolds Conservation Board had initially focused on a small part of West Oxfordshire in the Evenlode Valley and the area around Tetbury but it is now available throughout the whole of the AONB.

The Cotswolds AONB is the largest of 40 in England and Wales and covers an area of 790 sq miles (2,038 sq kms). It takes in parts of south Warwickshire, south Worcestershire, West Oxfordshire, the whole of Gloucestershire, parts of west Wiltshire and stretches down to the area around Bath and north east Somerset.

The grant which covers up to 50% of the costs of a project offers villagers and townspeople the opportunity to apply for funding of up to £10,000. Eligible projects must conserve and enhance local heritage or focus on installing new features which reflect local distinctiveness. These include; milestones, signs, gate posts, memorials, seats, railings, pumps and wells, in fact anything that helps to make a local area special.

Project manager for Caring for the Cotswolds John Tabor said;

"The Cotswolds Conservation Board works to help communities conserve and enhance the Cotswolds AONB and this is a great opportunity for people to identify features in their village or town that could benefit from a grant and apply. Applications for new features which reflect the character of the area are also very welcome."

The local distinctiveness scheme is part of a larger £2.5m project delivered by the Cotswolds Conservation Board called, 'Caring for the Cotswolds'. Supported by a £1.4m lottery grant, the five year project focuses on four interrelated areas all designed to practically conserve the Cotswolds. These are Local distinctiveness, Drystone walls, Unimproved grassland and Interpretation.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

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

• This year the Cotswolds Conservation Board is celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the AONB, which became a protected landscape back in 1966.

Contact: Claire Cunningham. Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board The Old Police Station Cotswold Heritage Centre Northleach Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

A new brew, Cotswold Lion beer has been produced to mark the 40th Anniversary of the AONB, by Hook Norton Brewery in Oxfordshire in partnership with the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

Managing director James Clarke said: "We were pleased to be asked as we are one of only two family -owned breweries left in the Cotswolds."

The food writer for the Oxford Times, Helen Peacocke has kindly created a lamb dish using Cotswold Lion Beer.

Lamb, apricot and Cotswold Lion beer casserole

(Serves 4)

Because Cotswold Lion beer has such a light refreshing fruity flavour I decided to try using it in the kitchen to flavour a casserole. Naturally I chose lamb as the main ingredient, adding a handful or organic apricots for extra flavour. The resulting dish was surprisingly good, particularly as I served it with the first of the runner beans and new potatoes and we drank Cotswold Lion beer with our meal rather than wine.

You will need:

Four lamb chump chops

4 oz (100g) dried apricots

One medium onion - chopped small

One clove garlic - chopped fine

Several sprigs parsley thyme & marjoram, chopped

One tsp vegetable stock bouillon powder

Half bottle Cotswold Lion beer

One tspn flour and flour to dust

Olive oil to fry meat

Salt and freshly ground black peppercorns to season

Method:

* Turn the oven to 150ēC/300ēF or gas mark 2.

* Toss the chops in a little seasoned flour and fry in olive oil until both sides are beginning to brown.

* Remove the chops from the pan and place in casserole dish while you fry the onion and garlic in the same oil.

* When onion and garlic are soft and beginning to brown stir in a dessert spoon of flour and cook until that begins to brown just a little.

* Stir half a bottle of Cotswold Lion beer into the mix and about a wine glass full of water - the beer remaining in the bottle can be enjoyed by the cook while the casserole is cooking!

* Add the chopped herbs, apricots the vegetable bouillon and seasoning and pour over the chops.

* Place a lid on the casserole and cook for about an hour, taste, adjust seasoning and serve.

Note: If made the day before it is needed and stored in the refrigerator, the herbs and beer will influse even more flavour.

Helen Peacocke - food writer Oxford Times

Click here to order the beer direct from Hook Norton Brewery

The scheme which is run by the Cotswolds Conservation Board helps Cotswold villages and towns to conserve distinctive features such as wells and village pumps and install new features like milestones or gateposts.

Individuals, local organisations and parish councils can apply for funding of up to £10,000 to cover up to 50 per cent of the costs.

John Tabor, the CCB's Caring for the Cotswolds Project Manager, said: "This is a great opportunity to identify features in villages and towns that could benefit from a grant."

For more information e-mail John at john.tabor@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk or call 01451 862000.

The school which is currently working with two local community projects, is opening up the use of the classroom to schools in urban areas such as Cirencester, Cheltenham and Gloucester.

Martin Watson, Headmaster said:

"This is a very special area that will enable Rendcomb College pupils as well as those from the wider community to access the curriculum in a hands-on practical way."

Standing in woodland in the school grounds, the wooden outdoor learning centre has been given full marks by pupils and teachers for the way it helps the children learn more about nature in a stimulating and ecologically friendly environment.

The project was financed with the help of the Cotswolds Conservation Board which provided £5,600 (66 per cent of the total cost) from the Sustainable Development Fund. The fund is administered by the Board and supports projects that bring social, environmental and economic benefits to the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

A Golden Rain Tree was planted by Jonathon Porritt CBE, co-founder of Forum for the Future, to mark the opening of the outdoor classroom in the summer.

Niel Curwen Chairman of the Cotswolds Conservation Board said:

"Sustainability is all about balancing our requirements with that of the environment with a view to ensuring that future generations will be able to meet their needs adequately.

"The children who learn this through the woodland classroom will carry their awareness with them into the future and that can only be a step in the right direction."

This is the precarious situation at Strawberry Banks, near Stroud, where the protected species has established its only colony in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) on a site of special scientific interest (SSSI).

Landowners in the area are being urged to help ensure the butterflys' future by forming a network of local 'back up' sites capable of supporting them should the population at Strawberry Banks crash. Without these "holding" populations the creatures which were once widespread in Britain and Europe may not survive.

During the last century their numbers have declined rapidly. The volatile fluctuations take place in close knit colonies which are formed on discreet patches of habitat. Adults rarely fly more than 50-100m but a small proportion seem to disperse further.

The Cotswolds Conservation Board have teamed up with an impressive range of organisations including English Nature, DEFRA, Butterfly Conservation and The National Trust to help manage them.

The area of land they inhabit is managed by the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve.

Jenny Phelps, grasslands officer for the Cotswolds Conservation Board, said:

"We want to demonstrate how all the partner organisations involved are working together and the way that landowners can protect limestone grassland and the survival of this rare butterfly. This can be achieved without compromising the landowners' other interests and objectives."

The project is part of a larger five-year scheme from the Cotswold Conservation Board called "Caring for the Cotswolds."

It is supported by a £1.4 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund and covers three areas - limestone grasslands, drystone walling and local distinctiveness.

Pubs and shops across the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) will soon be selling 'Cotswold Lion Beer', brewed to mark four decades of protected landscape status for the Cotswolds.

The pale fruit ale has been produced by Hook Norton Brewery in partnership with the Cotswolds Conservation Board, the organisation which works to conserve and enhance the Cotswolds AONB.

The media are invited to a press launch of the new beer at Hook Norton Brewery shop on July 26th at 1pm. Food and beer will be provided and it will be possible to tour the brewery. There will be a Cotswold Lion sheep at the event and opportunities for photographs.

Available in bottles and on draught, the beer will be on sale in Hook Norton pubs throughout the Brewery Estate and around 300 other pubs, off-licences and shops across the Cotswolds AONB. The area covers 790 sq miles (2,038 sq kms) stretching from south Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire, and West Oxfordshire down to Bath and Wiltshire in the south.

Managing Director of Hook Norton Brewery James Clarke said:

"We were pleased to be asked to produce the beer as we are one of only two family -owned breweries left in the Cotswolds."

Cotswold Lion beer celebrates four decades of AONB status for the Cotswolds. The legal designation which was made back in 1966 to conserve and enhance the unique landscape has ensured that the nature of change in the Cotswolds has been in keeping with the distinct character of the area.

The name of the beer is taken from the Cotswold Lion sheep that serves as the Cotswolds Conservation Board's logo and mascot. Known today simply as Cotswolds sheep, the breed is descended from the flocks that grazed the Cotswold Hills in Roman Times.

Cotswold Lions achieved outstanding success as wool producers during the middle ages when Cotswold wool became a major export. The famous wool churches built by wealthy merchants in the AONB remain as lasting evidence of the breed's medieval importance. The Cotswolds landscape as we know it today was quite literally shaped by sheep farming and hence wool production.

Hook Norton Brewery has kindly agreed to donate 5p off the top of every bottle of Cotswold Lion beer sold, to conservation work in the Cotswolds AONB.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

You can find out more about Hook Norton Brewery at www.hooky.co.uk

The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

This year the Cotswolds Conservation Board is celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the AONB, which became a protected landscape back in 1966.

The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Contact: Claire Cunningham Information and Interpretation Officer

Tel: 01451 862003

Cotswolds Conservation Board

The Old Police Station Cotswold Heritage Centre Northleach Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000

Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

On June 1st an awards ceremony was held at the Crown and Cushion Hotel in Chipping Norton where nine businesses received bronze, silver and gold awards in recognition of their efforts to become more environmentally friendly. Participants all agreed to take part in a special audit provided by Green Business UK Ltd and subsidised by the Cotswolds Conservation Board in partnership with West Oxfordshire District Council.

The environmental credentials of each business were assessed and the auditors suggested efficiency measures that managers could undertake to ensure that the business became greener. The businesses were encouraged to cut their utilities bills by reducing energy consumption, shown how to reduce the amount of water they used and in some cases introduced to the idea of recycling waste.

Manager of the Crown and Cushion hotel Stephan Schmitter who won a gold award said:

" We have really benefited from taking part in this project. Not only have we managed to cut costs by reducing energy consumption but we have established a green team in the hotel who are responsible for motivating the rest of the staff and ensuring that we continue to meet our environmental objectives. I would recommend a green audit to any business involved in the tourism industry in the Cotswolds and I for one will be helping to encourage others to get on board."

Other participants at the awards ceremony said that they had enjoyed 'going green' and were already benefiting from the financial savings that their businesses had made.

There are real signs that the Cotswolds Green Tourism project has been a success with most of the business improving their energy efficiency through measures such as installing low energy light bulbs, replacing old fridges with A rated models and putting in better heating controls.

The way that the businesses went about purchasing products also changed with most participants buying more local food, eco-cleaning products, recycled paper and fair trade teas and coffees. Well over half of those involved reduced their water consumption and 60% now have formal environmental policies in place.

Verena Hunt member of the Cotswolds Conservation Board and deputy leader of West Oxfordshire District Council said:

" This really demonstrates the link between tourism and the need to protect the local environment, which is at the end of the day the key asset for the tourism industry."

All of the businesses involved will also be taking part in a visitor payback scheme called 'Step into the Cotswolds', which will encourage tourists to contribute to a fund that will help conserve and enhance the Cotswolds AONB. The scheme is designed to raise funds for projects that will conserve the area, make it more accessible and tell people about its special features. The participating businesses ask visitors to make a small voluntary contribution to help offset the environmental impact of their visit and to enhance the area. The money raised is initially being spent on footpath improvements in the Chipping Norton and Kingham area.

Here is a list of the participating businesses and their gradings:

The Crown and Cushion Hotel Chipping Norton: Gold

The Forge B&B Chipping Norton: Gold

Barley Park B&B Burford: Silver

Mill Cottage self catering Chipping Norton: Silver

Moat End B&B Chipping Norton: Silver

King John's Barn self catering cottage Leafield: Bronze

Laughton's Retreat self catering cottage: Bronze

Meadow Bank House B&B Ascott-Under-Wychwood: Bronze

Plum Cottage self catering Ascott-Under-Wychwood: Bronze

Click here to find out more about The Cotswolds Green Tourism Project

Click here for more information about the Green Tourism Business Scheme.

School children living in urban areas surrounding the Cotswolds are to benefit from a new outdoor classroom at Rendcomb College and Junior School. The school which is already working with two local community projects has plans to offer the use of the classroom to nearby schools in urban areas such as Cirencester, Cheltenham and Gloucester. Nursery schools and community groups will also be encouraged to use the facility.

Jonathon Porritt (CBE) will help open the woodland classroom by planting a Golden Rain Tree along with Major Tom Wills, Chairman of the Trustees at Rendcomb College on Saturday the 27th of May at 10.30 am. Members of the Cotswolds Conservation Board, the organisation which helped to part-fund the project will also attend.

The outdoor woodland classroom will provide the opportunity for school children to learn more about nature in a stimulating and ecologically friendly environment.

The project was financed by Rendcomb College and Junior School with the help of the Cotswolds Conservation Board which provided £5,600 from the Sustainable Development Fund. (That is 67% of the total cost of the project). The fund supports projects that bring social, environmental and economic benefits to the Cotswolds. Up to £90,000 is available for projects within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) this year and the scheme is available to any organisation including community or voluntary groups and local authorities.

Claire Cunningham spokesperson for the Cotswolds Conservation Board said:

"Sustainability is all about balancing our requirements with that of the environment with a view to ensuring that future generations will be able to meet their needs adequately. The children who learn this through the woodland classroom will carry their awareness with them into the future and that can only be a step in the right direction."

Mr Martin Watson, Headmaster of Rendcomb College Junior School said:

"We are delighted to be able to develop a designated area of our beautiful school grounds specifically for the education and enjoyment of both our pupils and the members of the wider community. This will be a very special area that will enable Rendcomb College pupils as well as pupils from the wider community to access the curriculum in a hands-on practical way"

Jonathon Porritt (CBE) will go on to make a keynote speech as part of the school's Founders Day for parents and children.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

Could members of the press who would like to attend, ring Rendcomb College first to let them know that you are coming.

Contact details for Rendcomb College:

Mrs Liese Holden or Mr Jeremy Grey. Tel: 01285 831213

Mobile Contact on 27th May 07771 988 412

Rendcomb College & Junior School, Nr Cirencester, Glos, GL7 7HA. holdenl@rendcomb.gloucs.sch.uk

For more information about SDF grants contact Anne Powell: 01451 862000.

For general press enquiries contact: Claire Cunningham on 01451 862003

The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

Cotswolds Conservation Board The Old Police Station Cotswold Heritage Centre Northleach Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Nine businesses in West Oxfordshire are to receive awards in recognition of their attempts to become more environmentally friendly. The Cotswolds Green Tourism project set up by the Cotswolds Conservation Board and West Oxfordshire District Council, encourages businesses to take part in a green audit, which assesses their environmental credentials and suggests efficiency measures such as reducing energy consumption, water and waste.

The businesses which range from hotels and bed and breakfasts to self catering cottages will be given bronze, silver and gold awards in recognition of their attempts to become more environmentally friendly.

Verena Hunt, member of the Cotswolds Conservation Board said:

" This really demonstrates the link between tourism and the need to protect the local environment, which is at the end of the day the key asset for the tourism industry."

Councillor Tony Walker, West Oxfordshire District Council's Cabinet Member for Tourism and Economic Development said:

"We are pleased to be involved in a project that encourages businesses to see the economic benefits of becoming more environmentally friendly. Being green can save money as well as protecting our environment for the future of the tourism industry."

Over the next two years the businesses will be invited to take part in green tourism workshops led by the Cotswolds Conservation Board and West Oxfordshire District Council. The project will culminate in two years' time with a final audit and a second set of awards.

All participating organisations will also be taking part in a 'visitor payback scheme' called Step into the Cotswolds, which will encourage tourists to contribute to a fund that will help conserve and enhance the AONB.

The media are invited to a press call on the day of the awards ceremony at the Crown and Cushion Hotel in Chipping Norton on June 1st at 11.15am. The ceremony will start at 11.30am and there will be an opportunity for interviews and photographs afterwards.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

The Cotswolds Green Tourism Project consists of two main elements:

• The Green Tourism Business Scheme

• Step into the Cotswolds - A Visitor Payback Scheme

The Green Tourism Business Scheme is a national initiative where businesses pay for a green audit. More information can be found at www.green-business.co.uk.

The Cotswolds Green Tourism Project aims to encourage businesses to take part in a green audit by subsidising their cost.

Any businesses interested in getting involved should contact Chris Jackson at Oxfordshire District Council. Tel: 01993 861563.

Tourism South East provided some funding for the project.

The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Contact: Claire Cunningham.

Information and Interpretation Officer.

Cotswolds Conservation Board

The Old Police Station Cotswold Heritage Centre Northleach Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

For the fourth year running the Cotswolds Conservation Board is offering people the chance to learn a useful rural skill. Between April and November this year expert drystone wallers will be holding two day courses to teach people the art of building a traditional Cotswold drystone wall.

The training courses which are run as part of a 1.4M Heritage Lottery Fund project 'Caring for the Cotswolds' appeal to beginners wanting to take up the craft but they also offer those with a bit of walling 'know-how' the chance to hone their skills.

John Tabor who runs the Caring for the Cotswolds project said:

"Drystone walls are very much part of what makes the Cotswolds special - they are a key feature across the Cotswolds. There are at least 4,000 miles of drystone walls in the AONB ( as long as the great wall of China). Sadly many of them are in a derelict state but it is hoped that our walling courses will encourage people to maintain and restore them for future generations."

The courses will be held at a range of locations across the Cotswolds; Cud Hill near Painswick, Long Compton and Ilmington in Warwickshire, Whittington and Leckhampton Near Cheltenham, Doughton Near Tetbury, Coates Near Cirencester, Lansdown near Bath, Broadway in Worcestershire, Shipton-Under-Wychwood in West Oxfordshire and Crickley Hill near Gloucester.

The Cotswolds Conservation Board works to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which is a protected landscape. Another primary aim is to increase the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the AONB. In fulfilling these roles, the board must foster the economic and social well-being of local communities within the Cotswolds.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• This year the Cotswolds Conservation Board is celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the AONB, which became a protected landscape back in 1966.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Contact: Claire Cunningham, Information and Interpretation Officer.

Cotswolds Conservation Board

The Old Police Station Cotswold Heritage Centre Northleach Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000

Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The Cotswolds Conservation Board is inviting landowners to start working in partnership with conservation groups to secure the future of a threatened species of butterfly that is found in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, (AONB). The Marsh Fritillary, Eurodryas Aurinia, is a protected European species that was once widespread in Britain, and Europe.

The only established population of the Marsh Fritillary in the Cotswolds AONB is at Strawberry Banks near Stroud, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is managed by Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve.

The Cotswolds Conservation Board has identified that the best way to protect the butterfly is to establish a network of other local sites capable of supporting the Marsh Fritillary should anything happen to the butterfly population at Strawberry Banks. The butterflies are capable of sharp population increases followed by crashes through starvation and the aim would be to create 'back-up' populations at other sites to ensure the survival of the species in the Cotswolds.

Landowners and the media are invited to visit Strawberry Banks near Oakridge Lynch at 11.15am on the 2nd June to find out more about the project and meet representatives from all of the partner organisations involved.

Jenny Phelps the Grasslands Officer for the Cotswolds Conservation Board said:

" We want to demonstrate how all the partner organisations involved are working together and the way that landowners can protect limestone grassland and the survival of this rare butterfly. This can be achieved without compromising the landowners' other interests and objectives."

The Conservation Board is working with Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, English Nature, The Rural Development Service (DEFRA), Butterfly Conservation, The National Trust, Gloucestershire Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG), The Royal Agricultural College, The University of Gloucestershire, The Gloucester Cattle Society, The Cotswold Sheep Society, The Exmoor Pony Survival Trust and The Cotswold Voluntary Wardens.

Representatives from all of the organisations listed above have been invited to the event.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

Please see itinerary attached for a guide to the event. It is directed at landowners and the media are welcome to come along but this will not be a press call and requests for interviews should be made in advance or towards the end of the event.

The event will start at 11.15 am on Friday June 2nd at Oakridge Lynch Village Green, GL6 7NS (by the Church.) Drivers are asked not to park on the green. Could any TV crews who are interested in attending please contact us first.

Contact: Jenny Phelps: Grasslands Officer 01451 862000 / 07841 663604

For general press enquiries contact Claire Cunningham: 01451 862003

The Marsh Fritillary Butterfly Project is part of a larger five year project from the Cotswolds Conservation Board called 'Caring for the Cotswolds'.

It is supported by a £1.4 million grant from the heritage lottery fund and covers three areas; limestone grasslands, drystone walling and local distinctiveness. For more information contact John Tabor at the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• With its rolling hills and valleys the Cotswolds is the largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Cotswolds Conservation Board The Old Police Station Cotswold Heritage Centre Northleach Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The University is seeking the allocation of land within the AONB for its future expansion, in the Bath and North East Somerset Local Plan.

The Local Plan Inspector has failed to recommend that the AONB be safeguarded from any further expansion of the University and the Cotswolds Conservation Board is concerned that this will has a negative long-term impact on the Cotswolds landscape and on the quality of life for people living in and around Bath.

Nick Dummett Vice Chairman of the Board's planning sub-committee said:

" The Board is very concerned about the precedent that is being set. The land remains a part of the AONB and it is a dangerous principle that one can distinguish between better and worse parts of this protected area. We do not think that the University's laudable aim of expanding, is of such national importance that it meets the criteria for allowing development within the AONB. "

The Inspector's recommendation could now mean that large-scale development will encroach into the AONB, a move which would be against the advice of the government's own landscape advisors, the Countryside Agency.

The Board is also concerned about the resulting implications for the 39 other AONBs within England and Wales, where there are other universities which may want to expand in the future.

At the local plan inquiry in 2005, the Cotswolds Conservation Board objected to the allocation of land for the University's expansion within the Bath and North East Somerset Revised Deposit Draft Local Plan. The objection was made on the basis that the encroachment into the AONB was unjustified and would lead to further inappropriate development in the future.

The Board welcomes the Inspector's view that the new proposed green belt line should provide a 'permanent' definition between the built environment and open countryside and the Inspector's recommendations that Bath University does more to redevelop within the existing campus.

The Board notes that the Inspector does state, that any development should be appropriately landscaped and designed to prevent piecemeal erosion of the AONB. The Board will want to ensure that any development proposals that come forward fully respect the importance of the surrounding landscape.

Ends

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

•

• The Cotswolds Conservation Board acts as an advisor to planning departments of the17 local authorities within the AONB.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Contact: Malcolm Watt or Claire Cunningham. Tel: 01451 862000

Cotswolds Conservation Board The Old Police Station Cotswold Heritage Centre Northleach Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Our new booklet 'Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Cotswolds AONB', which is aimed at the general public is being circulated widely through tourist information centres and libraries. In the foreword, The Prince congratulates us on the efforts that have been made to conserve the Cotswolds over the past four decades and says that he hopes that we will continue our work for 'countless years to come'.

It is our belief that The Prince has taken a keen interest in the conservation of the AONB because our work encompasses issues that are close to his heart. His foreword acknowledges that there are challenges to be faced in the countryside and offers strong encouragement for everything that is being done to improve the quality of life within the Cotswolds. He also points out that everybody can help to conserve the countryside;

"But consumers too have a critical part to play in preserving our landscapes. The choices they make when for instance they buy their groceries each week can quite literally determine the future for British farmers".

The Prince says that it is important to remember that the Cotswolds is a managed landscape and that the contribution of farmers to the unique characteristics of the area is immense;

"The recent Limestone Grasslands Survey carried out by the Cotswolds Conservation Board revealed that this nationally important habitat for wildlife and rare plants only exists because of the type of livestock grazing practiced over generations. Without it, the grasslands would quickly turn into inhospitable scrubland."

Throughout 2006 the Cotswolds Conservation Board will be encouraging the public to join us in celebrating the 40th Anniversary by working to ensure that as many people as possible enjoy the AONB this year.

We will provide a range of publications that will help improve public understanding of the Cotswolds landscape and guide people towards events designed to encourage them to get out and enjoy the Cotswolds. More details are available on our website. www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

ENDS

Notes to editors:

Please see the 40th Anniversary Booklet enclosed for more detailed background about the history of the AONB and the work of the Cotswolds Conservation Board. The board is planning to hold a press week in August designed to give the media the chance to get out into the landscape and see examples of the work that we do. There will be an opportunity for journalists to try their hand at the rural skills of drystone walling and hedge laying. A press release will be issued nearer the time.

For general reference:

The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Contact: Claire Cunningham.

Information and Interpretation Officer.

Cotswolds Conservation Board

The Old Police Station Cotswold Heritage Centre Northleach Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The training courses which are run as part of a 1.4M Heritage Lottery Fund project 'Caring for the Cotswolds' appeal to beginners wanting to take up the craft but they also offer those with a bit of walling 'know-how' the chance to hone their skills.

John Tabor who runs the Caring for the Cotswolds project said:

"Drystone walls are very much part of what makes the Cotswolds special - they are a key feature across the Cotswolds. There are at least 4,000 miles of drystone walls in the AONB ( as long as the great wall of China). Sadly many of them are in a derelict state but it is hoped that our walling courses will encourage people to maintain and restore them for future generations."

The courses will be held at a range of locations across the Cotswolds; Cud Hill near Painswick, Long Compton and Ilmington in Warwickshire, Whittington and Leckhampton Near Cheltenham, Doughton Near Tetbury, Coates Near Cirencester, Lansdown near Bath, Broadway in Worcestershire, Shipton-Under-Wychwood in West Oxfordshire and Crickley Hill near Gloucester.

The Cotswolds Conservation Board works to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which is a protected landscape. Another primary aim is to increase the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the AONB. In fulfilling these roles, the board must foster the economic and social well-being of local communities within the Cotswolds.

A detailed list of walling dates in attached.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is cared for by the Cotswolds Conservation Board - an independent organisation with 40 members, 17 nominated by local authorities, eight by parish councils and 15 appointed by Government.

• This year the Cotswolds Conservation Board is celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the AONB, which became a protected landscape back in 1966.

• The Government has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 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 largest of 40 AONBs in England and Wales and is protected to ensure that its beauty and special character are conserved. 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.

Contact: Claire Cunningham, Information and Interpretation Officer.

Cotswolds Conservation Board

The Old Police Station Cotswold Heritage Centre Northleach Gloucestershire GL54 3JH

Tel: 01451 862000

Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The Board is also launching a study into ways of developing renewable energy that will be sympathetic to the countryside.

The Cotswolds Conservation Board is a statutory body set up to protect the Cotswolds which is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, (AONB). One of its key roles is to act in an advisory capacity to planning authorities to ensure that the national and international value of the area is consistently conserved and enhanced

In a statement issued today to the media and all planning authorities within the Cotswolds, the Board stresses that; "small scale renewable energy projects may well be able to be accommodated within the landscape without causing harm. However, what constitutes small, and the significance of any visual impact, must be defined by the critical characteristics which make that landscape special".

The statement adds: "Projects which are close to existing settlements, where the impact of man made structures are more prevalent, will be more acceptable than projects in the open countryside where visual clutter should be avoided. All renewable energy proposals must be justified by reference to a landscape character assessment."

Niel Curwen, Chairman of the Conservation Board said: "The Board wishes to make clear that it is not against renewable energy development in the Cotswolds. However, it does wish to provide guidance on which types of technology are likely to be acceptable in this beautiful area. Other than large scale wind farms or biomass incinerators, there are likely to be many other types of energy generation which are of a small enough scale to fit into the landscape."

The statement also points out that; "the contribution that can be made from the AONB to national and regional renewable energy targets is small while the harm to what is an area of national heritage enjoyed by many people could be great."

The Board believes that it should be possible to make an acceptable contribution to the required amount of renewable energy generated within the AONB by using forms of green technology of a scale appropriate to the landscape.

It is hoped that the Board's study into the different types of renewable energy technologies available will help identify which types of green technology would be more appropriate.

To sum up, the purposes of the study are:

• To draw together information on renewable energy technologies such as solar, hydro, bio-fuel and small scale wind turbines.

• To explore the possibilities of the use of such technologies within a designated landscape - the Cotswolds AONB.

• To help inform the stance of the Cotswolds Conservation Board and its policies for renewable energy projects in the AONB.

• To assist local authorities to devise appropriate criteria based policies for renewable energy developments in the Cotswolds AONB.

• To help identify which technologies may be worth supporting as pilot projects.

Councillor Liz Eyre, a Board member and Chair of the Living and Working Sub Committee, said: "The Cotswolds Conservation Board is, in principle, supportive of appropriate projects to provide renewable energy. We wish to investigate the full range of technologies currently available. This will help us provide advice to local authorities, developers, communities and householders as to which type of project is likely to be suitable for development in the Cotswolds without harming the natural beauty of the Area. In particular we are interested in finding out more about small scale technologies which can be used by individual householders and communities."

The report is expected to be available in the spring of 2006 and the Board's statement is attached to this press release.

ENDS

Background Information

The Cotswolds Conservation Board does not have direct responsibility for the preparation of land use planning policies, nor the determination of planning applications. Its role is rather one of advising and guiding the statutory planning authorities regarding particular issues within the AONB and ensuring that the national and indeed international value of the area is consistently conserved and enhanced.

The Cotswolds has increasingly become a popular destination for overseas and domestic visitors with around 38 million day visits in the area each year. Tourism is also the major source of income and employment for the area. Its importance to the rural economy and its vulnerability was underlined during the outbreak of Foot and Mouth disease when a wide range of businesses were seriously affected.

*Source: AONB management plan 2004.

Notes to Editors

1. The Cotswolds Conservation Board is responsible for conserving and enhancing the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The Board is comprised of members drawn from local authorities, organisations, parish councils and individuals appointed by the Secretary of State. The Board, formed in December 2004, is the only organisation that looks after the AONB as a whole.

2. The Cotswolds AONB was designated in 1966 and extended in area in 1990. It is one of 41 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty across England and Wales. It is the largest AONB, covering 790 square miles (2038 sq.km). It is a landscape of equal importance to National Parks such as Snowdonia and the Lake District.

3. A copy of the Statement is attached.

For further information contact:

Malcolm Watt,

Planning Officer,

Cotswolds Conservation Board

Tel: 01451 862004

Fax: 01451 862001

email: malcolm.watt@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk.

or

Claire Cunningham

Information and Interpretation Officer

Cotswolds Conservation Board

Tel: 01451 862000

Fax: 01451 862001

email: claire.cunningham@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk.

The accompanying rail and bus timetables are subdivided into the north, central and south areas of the AONB. They give details about how to get into the Cotswolds from surrounding areas, as well as information about getting around once you are there.The eye-catching booklet contains information and ideas for great days out and there are separate bus and train timetables for easy reference.

In addition to public transport information the guide includes walks, cycle routes, information about cycle hire, maps of the Cotswolds and lots of places to go and things to do. The walking routes are suitable for all abilities and some of the bus and train services carry bikes.

The area is criss-crossed with short, circular and long-distance paths, historic towns and villages and attractions, Using public transport to get to them is easier than people think.

Cotswolds AONB Director, Martin Lane says,

"What many people don't realise is that most of the Cotswolds is accessible by public transport. This free guide helps people to enjoy the area and I am delighted that it includes a suggested ay out for the less mobile, which is particularly relevant in this European 'Year of Disabled People'.

"We want to make it as easy as possible for everyone to be able to make the most of the beautiful Cotswold landscape - our guide encourages people to do just that."

Copies of the free 'Explore the Cotswolds by Public Transport' guide are available from local Visitor Information Centres in the Cotswolds by telephoning the AONB office, or downloading a pdf by clicking here.

Four stone 'gateways' have been installed at the roadside in Oxfordshire to show where the designated Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty begins.

The gateways are made from Cotswold stone with cast iron plaques and are part of a project to mark the boundary of this internationally important area.

Funded by the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the installation of the gateways has been co-ordinated by Oxfordshire County Council.

The four Oxfordshire gateways have been installed on the approach to Burford, between Charlbury and Woodstock and two just outside Chipping Norton.

Martin Lane, Director of the Cotswolds AONB Partnership said;

"Everyone knows the landscape of the Cotswolds is special, but what many people don't realise is that it is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

"By working with our council partners and local communities we are helping to raise the awareness of the special nature of the Cotswolds."

A spokesman from Oxfordshire County Council explained;

"As the local Highway Authority we were responsible for agreeing the sites for these gateways with the AONB Partnership and for getting our contractors to put them in place.

"We are delighted to help with this project which seems to have been very well received by local communities."

The gateways help to show the extent of the Cotswolds AONB - it is the largest of 41 AONBs in England and Wales, stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north down to Bath and Wiltshire in the south.

Martin Lane said,

"Covering 790 square miles it's a vast area and one of the most attractive parts of the country - that's something we want to shout about, as well as work to conserve and enhance."

Gateways are also being installed in the south of the AONB, near Bath and there are plans for gateways in Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and Wiltshire.

These follow three stones already in place in Warwickshire.

£224,500 has been awarded to local farmers and landowners by the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Partnership.

The grants are part of the Partnership's £2.8m 'Caring for the Cotswolds' project which has attracted £1.4m from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The grants will help conserve limestone grassland and dry stone walls, both of which are important features of the area.

£29,500 has been given to seven areas of grassland including Uley Bury, Rodborough Common, Strawberry Banks and Iles Green Meadow.

£195,000 has been given to help repair 24 dry stone walls including walls at Cold Aston, Badminton, Hawkesbury Upton, Northleach, Upper Slaughter and Limpley Stoke.

Jenny Phelps, grassland project officer for the AONB Partnership explained:

"The Cotswolds contains over half of the country's Jurassic limestone grassland, which host a wide range of wildlife, including wild flowers.

"To avoid these precious grassland sites reverting to woodland they need to be managed and the most effective way of doing this is by grazing.

"The grants will help to fund fencing and water supplies for the grazing livestock, as well as helping local farmers to diversify into traditional breeds - the animals graze the grassland sites and create Cotswold products such as cheese and meat."

Jonathan Gahan, dry stone wall project officer for the Partnership said:

"Dry stone walls are a well recognised feature of the Cotswolds and we are helping to conserve them by awarding grants to part-fund repairs in target areas."

The latest round brings the total dry stone wall and grassland grants awarded to date to more than £400,000.

For more details about the 'Caring for the Cotswolds' grants call the Cotswolds AONB Partnership on 01451 862000.

This annual competition is organised by the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Partnership and is open to all hedgelayers, from veterans to beginners.

Twenty-six people, from the Cotswolds and beyond will be competing for prize money and trophies.

The event is a celebration of hedgelaying skills and members of the public are welcome to come and see competitors at work.

The event is run in partnership with the National Hedgelaying Society and judging will be carried out by experienced hedgelayers.