The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness” commented the renowned nature writer John Muir. On May 24th people in protected areas from all over Europe will remember again the joy being in nature brings.

“This would be a fantastic achievement for all who are investing their energy, time and who just enjoy being in nature to come together with one passionate voice” says Director Carol Ritchie. Since its launch in 1999, the European Day of Parks has grown to a European wide campaign day with hundreds of events and activities. The European Day of Parks gains its strength from widespread participation of protected areas, agencies and organizations working in conservation. The EUROPARC sections are joining the event reaching out to other events and groups: The EUROPARC section in Italy, Federparchi, is liaising with the national youth sports association to mobilize young people, while in Spain RedEUROPARC takes the European Day of Parks to the Primavera festival in Madrid. Other special events are organized in Belgium by Parc Naturel des Vallées de la Burdinale, in Croatia by the Plitvice Lakes National Park, in Italy by Liguria Region and Regional Nature Park Portofino.

“My park. My passion. My Story” is accessible to all people, persons of any age, nationality, gender, profession, dedication. “Everybody is invited to join the campaign and help to foster the recognition and respect for Europe´s green treasures,” declares Thomas Hansson, President of EUROPARC. European Day of Parks has the power to prove once again the value of protected areas for citizens as unique places of recreation and joy with a rich biodiversity of fauna, flora, and ecosystems. It plays a pivotal role in reminding people of the pleasure and benefits of just being outdoors. People who are interested and enjoy nature have great chance to show their support but joining in activities in a protected area in their own area.

Further information and an updated list of events are available here: www.europarc.org/whats-on/european-day-of-park
 

The report entitled Assessment of the economic value of the Cotswolds AONB by Cumulus Consultants Ltd shows that the economy of the Cotswolds is diverse, prosperous and resilient, and that there is a positive relationship between many businesses and the high quality landscape and environment of the area.

Working on behalf of the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Broadway-based firm Cumulus Consultants and economists, ICF-GHK, surveyed businesses across all industry sectors throughout the Cotswolds for their views on how being located in the AONB makes a difference to their business. Responses were received from 166 businesses.

In terms of financial impacts, over half of all businesses surveyed indicated a positive impact on turnover arising from being in the AONB. This figure increased to 62% for tourism-related businesses, including 29% of businesses which suggested an increase in turnover by more than 15%.

Overall, 83% of the businesses surveyed felt that being in the AONB has a positive impact on their businesses, with very few indicating a negative impact.

Using economic data* for the Cotswolds AONB and feedback from the businesses surveyed, it can be estimated that around £260million of economic activity in the AONB, measured as Gross Value Added (GVA), and 7,500 jobs are ‘critically dependent’ on the high quality environment and landscape of the AONB.
In addition to the economic benefits, the AONB is considered to have a positive impact on the local economy in terms of raising the recognition of the area, encouraging sustainability and promoting local sourcing.

The report coincides with a similar study published this week undertaken by National Parks England and which looks at the contribution that the economies of the 10 English National Parks make both locally and nationally.

Cotswolds Conservation Board Director Martin Lane said: “We have long understood the value of the AONB in terms of its high quality landscape. These new research findings provide us with a valuable insight into the economic activity within the AONB and the associated benefits of the Cotswolds location. They highlight that the outstanding landscape is a major asset to our local communities and businesses and that there are a number of opportunities for us and other partners to seize, particularly in areas such as tourism and local produce.”

Member of Parliament for the Cotswolds, Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, welcomed the new report: “These findings are great news for the Cotswolds and I welcome the publication of this new report. We are very fortunate to live and work in such a beautiful area and these figures help demonstrate how a healthy local economy is so intrinsically linked with a high quality, natural environment.”

Director of Cotswold Farm Park, Duncan Andrews, commented: “We are very proud to run our farming and tourism in the Cotswolds, an area rightly recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The quality of the local landscape is fundamental to the success of the Cotswold Farm Park, which attracts visitors from all over the world. We hope that this report will underpin the future protection of the AONB status, and lead to greater promotion of this unique and beautiful area.”

* Based on data from the ONS Business Register and Employment Survey 2011 and the ONS Annual Business Survey 2010.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The full report ‘Assessment of the economic value of the Cotswolds AONB’ can be downloaded here.
• Cumulus Consultants Ltd is a specialist consultancy working in the land and environment sector. For more information: www.cumulus-consultants.co.uk
• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape.
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk

For further enquiries: Nicola Greaves
Tel: 01451 862003 Email: nicola.greaves@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
 

Wildflower-rich grasslands alive with colour are among the iconic summer sights of the British countryside, no more so than in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  Around the Cotswolds there are some 400 limestone grassland sites supporting over 100 species of wildflowers and grasses as well as over 25 species of butterfly. As well as important habitats, our grasslands are wonderful places to relax in and enjoy.  

This year a number of our guided walks take place at some of the best places where you can explore and learn more about the wildflowers of the Cotswolds.    Details of these walks are listed below and for further information on all our walks, click here to view the full programme this summer or pick up a copy of the Cotswold Lion at your local tourist information centre.
 

Sat 25 May 10am
Lineover and Ravensgate
Easy • 3 hours • 4 miles

A slow walk to enjoy the spring flowers, the trees, and the views in ancient Lineover Wood and on Ravensgate Common. The walk does have one climb but there will be plenty of time to stop and see things.
Starting point: Lineover Wood.
 

Thurs 20 June 10am
The Flowers and Wildlife of the Glyme Valley
Easy • 3 hours • 4.5 miles

A circular walk led by an expert naturalist with a feast of wildlife habitats including rich limestone grassland, (hopefully seeing a rare plant) ancient hedgerows as well as Over Norton parkland with its veteran trees and orchids.
Starting point: Chipping Norton Town Hall
 

Mon 24 June 2pm
Summer Ice Cream Walk No. 1
Moderate • 3 hours • 5.5 miles

An afternoon walk from Minchinhampton to Besbury Common, later crossing Minchinhampton Common with its abundant wild flowers, archaeological features and spectacular views. Before returning via the attractive village of Box there will be a stop for ice cream.
Starting point: Alongside Minchinhampton Church
 

Thurs 27 June 2pm
Flowers of the Limestone Grassland
Moderate • 3 hours • Up to 4 miles

We will walk over the agriculturally unimproved grassland of Cleeve Common looking for typical limestone grassland flowers and some Cotswold specialities. Good footwear (it may be steep and rough in places) and suitable refreshments please.
Starting point: Cleeve Hill Quarry Car Park
 

Fri 19 July 10.30am
Butterflies and their Habitat on Stinchcombe Hill – Summer Species
Easy • 2.5 hours • 3 miles

A walk around Stinchcombe Hill with Chris Wiltshire, the Gloucestershire County Butterfly Recorder. Learn about the summer butterfly species, such as Chalk Hill Blue and Dark Green Fritillary, which inhabit this unique landscape and witness examples, weather and climate change permitting. Suitable for families, but not buggies or pushchairs.
Starting point: Stinchcombe Hill public Car Park (not golf club Car Park).
 

Dr Val Kirby lives in Stroud and is a landscape architect and town planner with extensive experience in landscape policy and strategy. She has worked as an academic in England and New Zealand and has a research degree in cultural geography, based on the exploration of cultural and natural heritage. Her voluntary work includes chairing a working group on health and well-being for the Landscape Institute and advising the Cotswold Canals Trust on strategic landscape and planning issues. For several years she was Head of Landscape and Geodiversity at Natural England. She has also worked for the Countryside Agency and for the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority.

As well as her professional interests, Val is a keen endurance runner and sings in several local choirs.

Val said: “I have known and loved the Cotswolds since I was a teenager. It is an honour and a challenge to be part of the team that is committed to looking after its stunning landscapes into the future.”

Ed Macalister-Smith and his wife Rosemary live within the AONB in Long Compton, Warwickshire. He has recently retired after a career in senior roles in the NHS and in the third sector. His most recent role was as Chief Executive across the NHS covering all of Wiltshire, and Bath & North East Somerset. He continues his interest in the NHS as a leadership coach working with emerging clinical leaders, and has recently become a public elected Governor for the Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust. He is also a trained community first responder for his village with West Midlands Ambulance Service.

Ed is a keen gardener, and is planting an orchard at his home. His original training was in land use with a BSc from Wye College, London University, and an MSc in Forestry from Oxford University.

Ed said: “I am delighted to be appointed by the Secretary of State to the AONB Conservation Board, and look forward to both making a contribution to the work of the Board, and to learning more about the great work of the Board and the staff and volunteers who work with it.”

The new appointees will help steer and champion the Board as an effective mechanism for the management of the AONB and enhancing the social and economic well-being of local communities.

Val and Ed join the Board as it is about to publish the new 2013-18 Cotswolds AONB Management Plan which sets out the vision, objectives and policies for future management of the AONB.

Four existing members of the Cotswolds Conservation Board have also been re-appointed for terms ranging from one year to three years: Rev Jeffrey West (chairman); Simon Randall, Jo Burgon and Christine Shine.

For information about the Cotswolds Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and the work of the Conservation Board visit: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape. www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk
   

Rural skills training in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is proving more popular than ever as end of year figures reveal 2012-13 to be a record breaking year for the Cotswolds Conservation Board's rural skills programme.

Last year the highest number of courses than ever before were organised, attracting the highest number of trainees since the programme began in 2005.
Total figures for 2012-13 include:

• Twenty eight courses were delivered during the year.
• Six different subjects were offered - dry stone walling; hedgelaying; green woodworking; lime mortar; woodland coppicing; and blacksmithing.
• Rural skills training was provided for 230 people.
• Dry stone walling and hedgelaying remain the most popular courses.

Other highlights from the year include the launch of the Conservation Board's corporate rural skills team-building events plus the achievement of an advanced dry stone walling certificate for two wallers who successfully completed the LANTRA Level 3 walling course, hosted by Huntsmans Quarry.

One of the success stories from last year’s beginner dry stone wallers was Andrea Keys from Evesham who successfully tackled the repair of her own dry stone wall after completing the beginners course. She said: “My friends still think I am a little mad for taking it on, but I know they’re quietly impressed as well. I now have the pleasure of driving past my work every day which is incredibly satisfying.” Read more about Andrea’s experience here.

Commenting on the results, Rural Skills Officer, David Molloy said: "Each year the Board delivers a programme of rural skills training courses and competitions to promote the understanding and use of these traditional skills in the Cotswolds. Since 2005, the programme has been growing steadily as we seek to provide an increasing number and variety of informal and accredited courses. This year looks set to be another successful one as we move into providing more accredited training for wallers, as well as increasing the opportunities for people wanting to learn and gain an insight into a new skill or craft."

All courses as well as the popular gift vouchers can be booked online by going to: www.cotswoldsruralskills.org.uk

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape. www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk

The Cotswolds Conservation Board has appointed Denise Dane as Manager of the Escape to the Cotswolds centre at Northleach, as it opens its doors for the start of a brand new season.

The centre, which is housed in the Old Prison, was launched in July 2010 and helps to raise awareness of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty as well as encourage people to explore and enjoy the landscape and natural beauty.

Denise, from Chipping Norton, will be responsible for raising the profile of the centre and attracting more visitors through its doors by holding a series of events, group visits, talks and children's activities.

Denise joins the Conservation Board from Gloucestershire Geology Trust and formerly Oxfordshire Geology Trust where she was a project director. She also brings to the role a wealth of experience in primary, secondary and further education teaching.

Commenting on the appointment, Board Director Martin Lane said: "We are delighted to welcome Denise to the team. She has a great deal of energy, enthusiasm and ideas that will help put Escape firmly on the Cotswolds map.

Denise added: "I am looking forward to working with the Northleach team to help increase the potential of Escape as a vibrant visitor centre for the Cotswolds."

Escape to the Cotswolds will be open Wednesdays to Saturdays, including Bank Holiday Mondays, from 11am to 4pm. Volunteers are also being sought to help out during opening hours. If anyone is interested in volunteering, they should call the Conservation Board on 01451 862000.

The Old Prison is currently being purchased from Cotswold District Council by the charity organisation Friends of the Cotswolds.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape. www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk

The combination of bad weather and vehicular damage is resulting in serious erosion of roadside verges in many parts. However with more considered driving, motorists can reduce their impact on verges and prevent further damage to these important areas.

Cotswolds Conservation Board member Richard Lloyd explains further:

“Roadside verges are often areas that are overlooked, however as well as being an important habitat for wildlife, verges are a characteristic element of the Cotswold landscape, often flanked by distinctive dry stone walls and hedges.

Many of our verges particularly on narrower roads suffer from the impact of vehicles, which has been exacerbated by the excessive rain and snow in recent months. With even more vehicles expected on our Cotswold roads this Easter, we want to make motorists more aware of the need to look after our verges and to slow down, take more care, particularly when passing other vehicles, and enjoy the beautiful Cotswold scenery.

For further information on the importance of roadside verges in the Cotswolds, please go to: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk/userfiles/file/General/MANAGEMENTOFROADSIDEVERGES.pdf

Photos attached:

Picture 1 shows a damaged roadside caused by vehicles.
Picture 2 shows a flourishing roadside verge near Bibury.

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape.
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk

Working on behalf of the Cotswolds Conservation Board, Broadway-based firm Cumulus Consultants and economists, ICF-GHK, surveyed businesses across all industry sectors throughout the Cotswolds for their views on how being located in the AONB makes a difference to their business. Responses were received from 140 businesses. The results of the research will be presented at the Board’s Annual Forum on 1 March, which is taking place at Forest Green Rovers, Nailsworth, Gloucestershire.

Among some of the key findings arising from the research include:

• Total business income in the AONB is estimated at £5.3billion and Gross Value Added (a measure of economic contribution) is estimated to be £2billion.
• The proportion of self-employed (16%) is double the national average.
• Over two thirds of businesses surveyed said that the quality of the environment had a positive effect on their business.
• Other positive benefits of being located in the Cotswolds including being centrally located; having access to tourist markets; helping the image and marketing of products and services; and good infrastructure.
• More than 30% of businesses stated that there were no negative effects of being in the Cotswolds.
• Among the negative effects stated were: increased costs; lack of affordable housing; and staff recruitment difficulties
• Over 60% of businesses surveyed use their AONB location a lot for marketing purposes.
• Nearly half of businesses indicated that being located in the Cotswolds and the AONB has a positive impact on turnover; not surprisingly this was higher among tourism-related businesses (61%).
• In terms of the overall impact of being located in the Cotswolds, 86% of all businesses stated that it has a positive impact.

Paul Silcock, Director of Cumulus Consultants Ltd said: “The response to our survey has been much higher than expected and, combined with a number of in-depth interviews carried out with key public and private sector representatives, has helped us paint a clear picture of economic activity within the Cotswolds, as well as assess the value of the AONB to the local economy.”

Cotswolds Conservation Board Director Martin Lane said: “The research findings provide us with a valuable insight into economic activity within the AONB and the associated impacts of the Cotswolds location, which help to build a better picture of the important relationship between a healthy rural economy and healthy, high quality and accessible natural environment.
We are looking forward to discussing these key findings and potential opportunities with business representatives and other partners at our Annual Forum.”

Further details of the Cotswolds Conservation Board Annual Forum are available by visiting: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk/annual-forum-2013
ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape.
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk
   

This year, the theme is focused on the value of the Cotswolds AONB to the local economy. As part of the event, there will be a presentation on the key findings from a brand new piece of research by local firm Cumulus Consultants who have been busy surveying businesses and organisations to find out what they think about being located in the AONB and how it affects their business.

Local businesses and Local Enterprise Partnerships are particularly encouraged to attend this year's event.  For details of the full programme, speakers and how to register, please click here.

Working on behalf of the Board, Cotswolds-based firm Cumulus Consultants are asking businesses across all industry sectors throughout the Cotswolds for their views on how being located in the AONB makes a difference to their business. The results of the research will be presented at the Board’s Annual Forum on 1 March and will be used to help identify opportunities whereby the AONB and the local business sector can work together for mutual benefit.

Martin Lane, Director at Cotswolds Conservation Board, explains:

“The Cotswolds AONB has long been valued for its high quality landscape and environment, yet its economic worth is less well understood. There is a growing body of research undertaken in other areas that has shown the contribution a high quality environment can make to economic well-being in rural areas and demonstrates how a healthy natural environment and a healthy rural economy often go hand in hand.

We are keen to look at the association between economy and environment in the Cotswolds and identify actions that can be taken in the future to strengthen the links between the two.”

Early research* into this area as part of this project has revealed that:

• There are 9,450 businesses with 54,400 employees in the Cotswolds AONB.
• 95% of businesses in the AONB are located in rural areas
• Micro-businesses, employing 1-9 people, account for 69% of businesses and 33% of business employment - double the average for the South West region as a whole.
• 16% of the population aged between 16 and 74 is self-employed - double the national average.

The survey for businesses is open until 25 January and can be accessed by going to: www.ghkint.com/surveys/cotswoldsaonb

ENDS

Notes to editors:

*Sources:
Defra 2012, Cotswolds AONB Economic Profile. Data from Inter-departmental Business Register.
CACI Ltd Demographics, 2012.

Cumulus Consultants Ltd is a specialist consultancy working in the land and environment sector. For more information contact Paul Silcock. Tel: 01386 584950 Email: paul@cumulus-consultants.co.uk. Website: www.cumulus-consultants.co.uk

The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape. www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.

The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk

As part of this work, the consultants – Cumulus Consultants & GHK Consulting – are undertaking a survey of businesses across the Cotswolds. The survey explores the views of businesses regarding the Cotswolds in general and the AONB designation in particular.

I would be most grateful if you could spare 5-10 minutes to complete the survey which is available online at www.ghkint.com/surveys/cotswoldsaonb  from now until Friday 25 January. Feedback from businesses both inside and outside the AONB would be much appreciated.

Your views are important and will help us to understand and improve the links between a high quality landscape and a vibrant local economy.

Thank you in advance for your participation.
 

The event, which will take place between 2pm and 4pm, will see Santa ‘locked up’ and funds raised to help with his release in time for Christmas.

As well as carol singing around the Christmas tree, kindly donated by Lord Vestey, Patron of the Friends of the Cotswolds, there will be a range of rural skills demonstrations including green woodworking, blacksmithing and wool spinning, plus badge-making for children and music supplied by the Chedworth Silver Band.

Chairman of the Friends of the Cotswolds, Simon Randall commented: "We are delighted with the amount of support that we have been receiving from local people, particularly at our last event which helped us raise over £2,000 from donations on the day plus the very generous recent donation of £20,000 by Grundons. We are hoping to build on this further through our Christmas event plus more events and fundraising activities that we are planning for next year.”

The event will start at 2pm and finish at 4pm on Sunday 2 December. Entrance is free but donations will be very welcome.

Notes to editors:

The Old Prison
The Old Prison is a landmark historic building on the Fosse Way at Northleach and has a fascinating history as one of Gloucestershire’s original and inspirational houses of correction in the late 18th century. The building is also home to the unique and substantial Lloyd Baker Rural Life Collection as well as the new Escape to the Cotswolds Discovery Centre for the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and the offices of the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

Friends of the Cotswolds
The Friends of the Cotswolds is a charity started in 2007 whose purpose is to conserve and enhance the Cotswolds whilst raising awareness of our natural environment and provide activities and facilities for visitors and people living and working in the Cotswolds. Visit: www.friendsofthecotswolds.org

The Friends of the Cotswolds are aiming to raise £750,000 to secure and invest in the future of the Old Prison, following the decision by Cotswold District Council to put the building up for sale in 2011 and the Friends being subsequently chosen as the preferred bidder.

The purchase of the building is expected to be completed in spring 2013, following which time work will be undertaken to conserve it for the future by improving the fabric of the building and turning it into a vibrant visitor centre.

For further information:

Simon Randall. Chairman Friends of the Cotswolds srandall@wslaw.co.uk 07802 968428
Website: www.friendsofthecotswolds.org

Date posted: 23 November 2012

For the first time, the Heritage Lottery Fund has awarded a unique partnership of conservation organisations including the Cotswolds Conservation Board - led by Plantlife – funds to plan a national natural heritage project to protect and conserve the UK’s remaining fragments of meadows. Nearly 7.5 million acres have been lost so far and they are still being destroyed. And once gone, they are irreplaceable.

What is a meadow?
Meadows of native wild flowers are enjoying a huge vogue in gardening; they look beautiful and attract wildlife, particularly threatened pollinators. But the real wild flower meadows are vanishing – and with them our native flowers such as green-winged orchid, pasqueflower, oxeye daisy and horseshoe vetch. Meadows and grasslands are an intrinsic part of the Cotswolds and UK’s natural and cultural heritage: rich in landscape character, folklore and history.

There were once natural wildflower meadows in every parish in the UK – today only 2% of the meadows that existed in the 1930s remain.

The Save our Magnificent Meadows project aims to protect, conserve and restore wildflower meadows across the UK, and will focus on the flower-rich limestone grasslands of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty along with grasslands in other parts of the country.

Two key aims are:

1. to raise awareness of their importance with the general public
2. to raise awareness to their importance with landowners and those who manage the land.

To help find out more about what people know and to give them a chance to say how they would like to help in the fight to save meadows and grasslands, an online survey has been set up at http://tinyurl.com/savingmagnificentmeadows

Simon Smith from Cotswolds Conservation Board said: “Until recently, wild flowers had a prominent place in our imaginations. They were familiar to anyone who walked in the country and we knew their names. So, we are absolutely delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund has given us and our partner organisations the chance to save what’s left of the UK’s meadows in key areas, for our children and our children’s children. A vital part of this planning is finding out what people know about wildflower meadows and grasslands and how they’d like to get involved in the fight to protect, conserve and restore them. The UK’s wildflower meadows and grasslands are facing a very uncertain future. We want to encourage as many people as possible to complete our online survey. Everyone can help us make a difference by telling us what they think and sharing their ideas at http://tinyurl.com/savingmagnificentmeadows. The information from this survey is vital to highlight key issues and help us plan opportunities for people to find out more and get involved.”
ENDS

Notes to editors

*A first-round pass/initial support means the project meets HLF criteria for funding and HLF believes the project has potential to deliver high-quality benefits and value for Lottery money. The application was in competition with other supportable projects, so a first-round pass is an endorsement of outline proposals. Having been awarded a first-round pass, the project now has up to two years to submit fully developed proposals to compete for a firm award.

On occasion, an applicant with a first-round pass will also be awarded development funding towards the development of their scheme.

The Save Our Magnificent Meadows project partnership

The project partnership consists of 11 organisations across the UK:

Plantlife (leading the project)
Cotswolds Conservation Board
East Lothian Council
Medway Valley Countryside Partnership, Kent County Council
Northumberland Wildlife Trust
Pori Natur a Threftadaeth (PONT)
Royal Society for the Protection of Birds
Somerset Wildlife Trust
The Conservation Volunteers
Ulster Wildlife Trust
Wiltshire Wildlife Trust.

The partnership is also supported by Natural England, Scottish Natural Heritage, the Countryside Council for Wales and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency.

About Plantlife
Plantlife is the organisation that is speaking up for our wild flowers and plants. From the open spaces of our nature reserves to the corridors of Westminster, we're here to raise their profile, to celebrate their beauty, and to protect their future. Wild flowers and plants play a fundamental role for wildlife, and their colour and character light up our landscapes. But without our help, this priceless natural heritage is in danger of being lost.
www.plantlife.org.uk

About the Heritage Lottery Fund
Using money raised through the National Lottery, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) sustains and transforms a wide range of heritage for present and future generations to take part in, learn from and enjoy. From museums, parks and historic places to archaeology, natural environment and cultural traditions, we invest in every part of our diverse heritage. HLF has supported over 30,000 projects, allocating £4.7 billion across the UK. www.hlf.org.uk

About the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape. www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk

To compete, participants 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 carried out by representatives of the National Hedgelaying Society who look for specific aspects of hedgelaying including cut and pleach, stake and heatherings, back of hedge and general appearance.

The traditional art of hedgelaying has been part of the Cotswolds landscape for centuries. Originally used for the purposes of stock control, the skill of laying a hedge was once common practice. However, due to the introduction of cheaper and less labour intensive methods of stock control, this traditional form of land management is now a much rarer skill. The Cotswolds Conservation Board works to keep these skills alive through a programme of courses throughout the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
There are many styles of hedge-laying throughout the UK. In the Cotswolds the most commonly used are the Midlands style and the Somerset style. For further information on the competition and courses, and to register as a participant, please visit www.cotswoldsruralskills.org.uk or telephone the Cotswolds Conservation Board on 01451 862000.
ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. The competition is kindly supported by the National Hedgelaying Society.
2. The competition takes place at Hitchen Farm, Ford, Gloucestershire.
3. Competition classes are described as follows :
   
   • Class 1: Open: anyone with experience of hedgelaying.
   • Class 2: Intermediate: those who have not won this class twice or been placed in an open or veteran class.
   • Class 3: 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.
   • Class 4: Veterans: competitors who have reached their 60th birthday on or before the day of the competition.
   • Class 5: 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 £40, 2nd: £25; 3rd: £15
   c. Class 3 1st: Trophy and £30, 2nd: £20, 3rd: £10
   d. Class 4 1st: Trophy and £40, 2nd: £25, 3rd: £15
   e. Class 5 1st: Trophy and £30 each, 2nd: £20 each, 3rd: £10 each

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape.
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk
   

The second draft Cotswolds AONB Management Plan 2013-18, written by the Cotswolds Conservation Board, sets out a series of policies and actions to help guide public bodies, landowners, businesses and individuals on how they can play their part in looking after the Cotswolds landscape and encouraging others to appreciate and enjoy its natural beauty.

The plan covers a number of themes including rural land management, tourism, biodiversity, transport and development, health and wellbeing, and the historic environment. Views on the draft Plan are now being sought by the Board.

The current five-year Management Plan, published in 2008, has resulted in a number of achievements for the AONB, including:

• Over 15MW of renewable energy generation capacity approved by local planning authorities in the AONB which is sufficient to provide electricity for about 7,000 dwellings – approximately 10% of the housing stock in the AONB.
• An additional 132 affordable homes provided by Cotswold District Council.
• 7km of dry stone walls restored through a £1million National Grid grant package linked to the Wormington to Sapperton gas pipeline.
• Escape to the Cotswolds - a brand new discovery centre for the AONB opened in July 2010.
• Cotswold Voluntary Wardens undertook 175,000 hours of conservation and awareness-raising work including attracting 17,000 visitors on guided walks.
• The European Charter for Sustainable Tourism in Protected Areas was awarded to the Cotswolds AONB in 2011.
• The Cotswolds AONB Management Plan 2008-13 and an accompanying suite of landscape guidance publications won a Landscape Institute Award in 2010.

The deadline for responses to the Management Plan consultation is 13 January 2013.

For further details of the Management Plan, click here.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape. www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk
   

The Oxfordshire-based company, Grundon Waste Management Ltd, has donated £20,000 via the Landfill Communities Fund to help the Friends secure the future of the Grade II* listed Old Prison building at Northleach which was put on the market by Cotswold District Council last year. The Friends of the Cotswolds are the preferred bidder by the council to take ownership of the Old Prison building and site at Northleach which houses the Cotswolds Conservation Board and Escape to the Cotswolds discovery centre.

Simon Randall Chairman of the Friends of the Cotswolds said:

“We are extremely grateful to Grundon for this generous donation which is a massive boost to our fund raising activities. We hope to be able to complete the purchase by Easter 2013 and then the real hard work to create a truly vibrant community, visitor and educational centre begins.”

Anyone wishing to help with this project either via donations or practical hands on help please contact: friends@friendsofthecotswolds.co.uk or by visiting: www.friendsofthecotswolds.org

ENDS

Notes:

Friends of the Cotswolds
The Friends of the Cotswolds is a charity started in 2007 whose purpose is to conserve and enhance the Cotswolds whilst raising awareness of our natural environment and provide activities and facilities for visitors and people living and working in the Cotswolds. Visit: www.friendsofthecotswolds.org

Grundon Waste Management Ltd
Grundon are an Oxfordshire based company with operations across the south of England and one at Bishops Cleeve, Gloucestershire. More information about Grundon and their environmental/charity funding can be found at www.grundon.com

The revised draft and corresponding documents are available by clicking here

The closing date for consultation responses is 13 January 2013.

For further details, contact Malcolm Watt, Planning Officer on 01451 862004.

A new work of public art will be unveiled at Bath Abbey on 25^th October to mark the beginning and the end of the Cotswold Way National Trail.

• James Blockley, National Trail Officer on 01451 862034/07738 040456 or email: james.blockley@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
• Elaine Teh, Communications Officer at Bath Abbey on 01225 303320/422462 or email: elaine@bathabbey.org
• Nicola Greaves, Information & Interpretation Officer, Cotswolds Conservation Board on 01451 862003/07743 478204 or nicola.greaves@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 hosted by the Cotswolds Conservation Board, based at Northleach.
• Funding for the management and promotion of the Trail is provided by Natural England.
• The Cotswold Way links all that is special about the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; internationally renowned bluebell woods, rare and important limestone grassland, intriguing history both ancient and modern, globally significant geology, sleepy villages and thriving market towns.
• 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.

• Open seven days a week, with a variety of formal and informal worship
• Over 400,000 visitors a year, more than any other parish church in the UK
• Reaching out to hundreds of disadvantaged and marginalised people through work with homeless agencies and the local authority
• Continuing a strong choral tradition with a Choir of Boys, Girls and Men which plays a vital part in the music life of the Abbey and the city
• The city’s second largest venue for concerts throughout the year
• The Abbey has many of its own activities for the young and also works with local schools. More than 1,500 children sing in the Schools’ Singing Programme. 16 local schools take part in Easter Experience and 19 local schools hold carol services here every year.

• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape.
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State. www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk

HRH the Princess Royal took time out of her busy schedule to present awards to the delighted winners at this year’s Cotswolds AONB Dry Stone Walling Competition which took place last Sunday at the spectacular Gatcombe Park Estate in Gloucestershire.

Fourteen wallers across the four classes competed during the day for the cash prize and trophies at the annual competition. Each competitor was required to rebuild between 1.5m and 2.25m of wall, depending on their skill level, to the correct Cotswolds standard specification.

The winners were:

Professional class
First place: Alistair Bidmead from Minchinhampton, Gloucestershire
Second place: John Byrne from Nailsworth Gloucestershire
Third place: Stephen Pethick from Devon

Amateur/part-time professional class
First place: Andy Deller from Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire
Second place: Edmund Trainor from Mickleton, Gloucestershire
Third place: Rob Gibson from Bedfordshire

Novice class
First place: Richard Saunders from Kidlington, Oxfordshire
Second place: Bridget Gibson from Bedfordshire
Third place: Owen Brunsden from Northamptonshire

Beginner Pairs
First place: Arthur & Robin Witchell

The best Cotswolds based Competitor prize was awarded to Alistair Bidmead (pictured top right). After receiving his trophy, Alistair said: “It was a wonderful surprise and an honour to have my award presented to me by the Princess Royal. I thoroughly enjoyed the day and look forward participating in future Cotswolds dry stone walling competitions.”

The competition was organised by the Cotswolds Conservation Board, in partnership with the Cotswolds branch of the Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain (DSWA) and with the support of Huntsmans Quarries.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• Competition classes are described as follows :
a) Class 1: Professional: anyone whose main earnings are derived from dry stone walling or who is regularly employed as a dry-stone waller.
b) 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.
c) Class 3: Novice: anyone with some experience of dry stone walling.
d) Class 4: Beginner pairs: any two people who have little experience of dry stone walling.

• Competition prizes are awarded as follows:
a) Class 1 1st: Trophy and £120, 2nd: £80; 3rd: £60, 4th: £40
b) Class 2 1st: Trophy and £80, 2nd: £50, 3rd: £30
c) Class 3 1st: Trophy and £60, 2nd: £40, 3rd: £25
d) Class 4 1st: Trophy and £40 each, 2nd: £30 each, 3rd: £20 each

• The competition is supported by the Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain which was formed at the Gatehouse of Fleet in Galloway in 1968 to preserve, improve and provide education in the craft of dry stone walling.
• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape.
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk

9 October 2012

Organised by the Cotswolds Conservation Board, in partnership with the Cotswolds branch of the Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain (DSWA) and with the support of Huntsmans Quarries, the event will see competitors of all abilities vying for the prestigious walling trophy and up to £120 cash prize.

Depending on which class they enter, competitors will have to strip and rebuild a certain length of wall to the correct specification. The rules associated with the competition are strict with marks awarded for quality of foundations, cope stones, sides, middle filling, batter and straightness.

Estate Manager, Arthur Witchell said: “Dry stone walls are a key feature of the Gatcombe Park Estate and we are therefore delighted to be able to host the Cotswolds Dry Stone Walling Competition this year. We very much look forward to meeting the competitors and seeing the final walls.”

David Molloy, rural skills officer at the Cotswolds Conservation Board, said: “This is the first time the competition will have been held at Gatcombe Park and we are grateful to the Estate for letting us have this opportunity. I’m sure that it will be another successful and popular event whereby we can help to keep the skills alive but also celebrate excellence and quality craftsmanship.”

The competition is free to enter and has four classes: Professional; Amateur/Part-Time Professional; Novice; Beginners Pairs. There is an additional prize for the best waller under 21 years of age. The draw for stints takes place from 8.45am with work completed at 4.15pm and prizes awarded at 4.30pm.

Anyone wishing to enter the competition can do so by registering online at www.cotswoldsruralskills.org.uk or by calling the Cotswolds Conservation Board on 01451 862000.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• Competition classes are described as follows :
  
  1. Class 1: Professional: anyone whose main earnings are derived from dry stone walling or who is regularly employed as a dry-stone waller
  2. 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.
  3. Class 3: Novice: anyone with some experience of dry stone walling.
  4. Class 4: Beginner pairs: any two people who have little experience of dry stone walling.
      
• Competition prizes are awarded as follows:
  1. Class 1 1st: Trophy and £120, 2nd: £80; 3rd: £60, 4th: £40
  2. Class 2 1st: Trophy and £80, 2nd: £50, 3rd: £30
  3. Class 3 1st: Trophy and £60, 2nd: £40, 3rd: £25
  4. Class 4 1st: Trophy and £40 each, 2nd: £30 each, 3rd: £20 each
      
• The competition is supported by the Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain which was formed at the Gatehouse of Fleet in Galloway in 1968 to preserve, improve and provide education in the craft of dry stone walling.
   
• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape.
   
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
   
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
   
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk

The Cotswold Way National Trail has, for many years, provided the inspiration for thousands of walkers to explore this quintessentially English countryside and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, as it journeys its 102 miles along the Cotswold scarp. Now the inspiration of the trail on its many resident artists can be discovered and viewed thanks to a brand new exhibition taking place throughout this summer.

Between now and 22 September, the gardens of the Cotswold House Hotel in Chipping Campden will be the venue for the art exhibition ‘Along the Cotswold Way', showcasing some of the talented artists and sculptors who live and work along the Cotswold Way - from the market town of Chipping Campden in the north to the World Heritage City of Bath in the south.

The new exhibition features, among others, ceramicist Peter Hayes from Bath who takes his influence from the surrounding landscape and textures; Sandra Hickmore from Stroud who has been inspired by the Arts & Crafts Movement and the many poets and authors who have lived in the Cotswolds; Rupert Till from Winchcombe who uses galvanized wire as his medium to create unique garden sculptures; and Kate Risdale from Broadway who creates life-sized metal sculptures of the many animals around her.

James Blockley, National Trail Officer at the Cotswolds Conservation Board said:

"This exhibition is a wonderful opportunity to take an artistic tour of the Cotswold Way from beginning to end without ever leaving the start. These delightful and inspiring works of art are spread out along an imaginary Cotswold Way winding through gorgeous gardens and would be the perfect start to a walk, or indeed a journey in its own right. It is all down to the hard work of Keith Finlay from Cotswold House, and we look forward to working with him on future exciting arts projects – watch this space!"

The exhibition and gardens are open daily with free entry and there is the opportunity to enjoy a tea or coffee on the terrace. For further details about the exhibition, go to: www.nationaltrail.co.uk/cotswold.

ENDS

Notes to editors

• For further details, images or to arrange an interview, please contact James Blockley on 01451 862034 or email: james.blockley@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Cotswold Way National Trail

• 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 hosted by the Cotswolds Conservation Board with funding provided by Natural England.
• The Cotswold Way links all that is special about the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; internationally renowned bluebell woods, rare and important limestone grassland, intriguing history both ancient and modern, globally significant geology, sleepy villages and thriving market towns.
• 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 Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape.The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk

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
 

Following the exciting and long-awaited news that local charity the Friends of the Cotswolds are the preferred bidder by Cotswold District Council to take ownership of the Old Prison building and site at Northleach, an open event to “show the potential” is being organised for local residents and supporters on Sunday 12 August.

The event, which will take place between 1.30pm and 4pm, will provide a unique opportunity to view parts of the site not normally open to the general public such as the Old Police Station. As well as being able to enjoy a full guided tour of the site, including the original female cell block, the courtroom, the Rural Life Collection, the Escape to the Cotswolds discovery centre, plus other exhibits including the Gloucestershire Geology Trust Roadshow. Visitors on the day will also have the opportunity to hear from representatives from the Friends of the Cotswolds, Northleach with Eastington Town Council and the Cotswolds Conservation Board on their proposed vision for the future of the site. Guests will be welcome to make suggestions and are especially asked to bring any memories and anecdotes about the Old Prison site before it closed in the 1970s.

Chairman of the Friends of the Cotswolds, Simon Randall is keen to demonstrate their commitment to conserving the heritage of the building for the future: "During the past year, we have been immensely encouraged by the amount of support we have received from local people and visitors in our bid to save this wonderful site for the future enjoyment of many people. We are now looking forward to meeting many of them next month as we share our future plans and listen to their ideas and hear about their memories of the Old Prison site. I'm sure it will be a very interesting day all round"

The event will start at 1.30pm and finish at 4pm on Sunday 12 August. For further details, contact the Cotswolds Conservation Board on 01451 862000.

Notes to editors:

Northleach House of Correction
The Northleach House of Correction is one of four houses of correction built in Gloucestershire in the 1790’s to the design of the then High Sheriff, Sir George Onesiphorus Paul. Paul was the inspiration and driving force behind the reorganisation of Gloucestershire’s prison system, the first such scheme of its kind in the country. Today the keeper’s house, female cells and police station along with the front façade and perimeter wall all survive, as does the court room.

Rural Life Collection
The Rural Life Collection contains a personal collection of agricultural and rural history by Miss Olive Lloyd-Baker who was born in 1902 to a distinguished Gloucestershire family. When she died in 1975 the “Lloyd-Baker Collection” was accepted by HM Treasury in lieu of estate duties and its ownership transferred to Cotswold District Council. Since 1981 when it was housed at Northleach, further additions to the collection have been made by generous donations from local people. At the heart of the collection are 23 farm wagons and carts, with regional and national significance as locally-distinctive examples.

Escape to the Cotswolds
The ‘Escape to the Cotswolds’ discovery centre was opened by the Cotswolds Conservation Board in July 2010 to provide a colourful insight into the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is open between April and October, Wednesday to Saturday, 11am to 4pm.

Friends of the Cotswolds
The Friends of the Cotswolds is a charity started in 2007 whose purpose is to conserve and enhance the Cotswolds whilst raising awareness of our natural environment and provide activities and facilities for visitors and people living and working in the Cotswolds. Visit: www.friendsofthecotswolds.org

Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape.
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk

For further information:

Nicola Greaves, Information & Interpretation Officer, Cotswolds Conservation Board. Tel: 01451 862003 Email: nicola.greaves@cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
Tel: 01451 862000 Website: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Simon Randall. Chairman Friends of the Cotswolds srandall@wslaw.co.uk 07802 968428
Website: www.friendsofthecotswolds.org
 

Two dry stone wallers trained in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) are on their way to becoming master craftsmen after successfully completing an advanced dry stone walling qualification with the help of the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

John Hepworth from Kidlington in Oxfordshire and Ceri Jenkins from Swansea have completed the Lantra Level 3 dry stone walling course which was set up in the Cotswolds with financial support from the Ernest Cook Trust with the aim of addressing the current shortfall in advanced dry stone walling skills and techniques in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The course was also supported by Huntsman’s Quarries who supplied the walling stone and training venue.

The 22-week course and assessment has prepared the wallers to deal with the range of situations that they can encounter, including curved walls, walls on sloping ground, high or retaining walls and ‘lunkies’ which are holes in the wall designed for animals to pass through. These are all aspects of the skill critically important to the conservation of the Cotswolds landscape and the special features that add local character as well as the continuing development of the profession.

Also celebrating their success in dry stone walling are Gloucestershire’s Jeremy Mort and Jason Baxter who have achieved their Lantra Level 2 Intermediate qualification. Alistair Bidmead from Minchinhampton also completed the Level 3 course but was unable to attend the assessment day

Rural Skills Officer, David Molloy, said: “We are delighted with the achievements of these dry stone wallers who can now go on to achieve Master Craftsmen status. The Board has a very strong track record of delivering and promoting dry stone walling courses in the Cotswolds and we hope that we can continue to support the next generation of top flight wallers, developing the skills necessary to help conserve the special character of the Cotswolds in the long term.”

ENDS

PHOTOGRAPH: Ceri Jenkins (left) and John Hepworth (3rd from left) celebrate achieving their Lantra Level 3 certificate in dry stone walling, while Jason Baxter (2nd from left) and Jeremy Mort (3rd from right) achieved their Level 2 certificate.

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape, www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk

Following a series of public meetings held across the Cotswolds recently where local residents were able to find out more about the work and achievements of the Cotswolds Conservation Board over the past 5 years and take an active part in discussing future plans, there is still time for members of the public to take part in an online survey and submit their views before the deadline of 14 July.

The meetings and survey are being run as part of the review process for the Cotswolds AONB Management Plan. This plan provides information on a number of different aspects of the AONB including planning, transport, tourism, recreation, historic buildings and nature to help guide the management of the AONB over the next five years. The new plan, which will come into effect in April 2013, has identified a range of key issues and policies covering each of these and other topics. Through public meetings and online consultation, members of the public are being invited to put forward their thoughts regarding the content of the plan.

To go direct to the survey questions, click here.

For further details of the Management Plan click here or contact the Cotswolds Conservation Board on 01451 862000.
ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape. www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk
   

During the initial search to find the wonders of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) over 80 nominations were received from members of the public. Historic sites and buildings, natural attractions, viewpoints, landscape and cultural features, towns and villages and many more ideas flooded in. With such a variety of suggestions that covered all aspects of the AONB, the Board invited the public to vote for their top seven Cotswolds ‘wonders’ to help determine the final list. Following a three-month voting period, the results announcing the final seven are:

Westonbirt, The National Arboretum
Located just outside the traditional Cotswold town of Tetbury, Westonbirt is an historic, Victorian picturesque landscape and an internationally important tree and shrub collection. Managed by the Forestry Commission, the National Arboretum is home to some 16,000 trees from across the world including Britain, China, North America, Japan and Chile.

The Rollright Stones
The Rollright Stones are an ancient Neolithic and Bronze Age site located on the Oxfordshire/Warwickshire border. One of the most famous stone circles in England, the Rollright Stones are full of mysterious beauty and consist of three main elements, the Kings Men stone circle, the King Stone, and the Whispering Knights.

Cotswold limestone
The Jurassic oolitic limestone that lies beneath the Cotswolds is what gives the area its distinctive character. It is the limestone in all its various shades, used extensively in buildings, towns, villages and dry-stone walls throughout the AONB, that generates a feeling of unity between the natural and built environment.

Woodchester Mansion and Park
Woodchester Mansion is a Grade I listed 19th Century Victorian Gothic mansion mysteriously abandoned mid-construction in 1873. Hidden in a secluded Cotswold valley, the mansion and parkland have their own unique, timeless atmosphere.

Cotswold Way National Trail
The Cotswold Way stretches 102 miles along the Cotswolds escarpment between the market town of Chipping Campden in the north to the City of Bath in the south. With panoramic views, picturesque villages and historic sites, the Cotswold Way attracts some 150,000 walkers every year.

Cleeve Hill & Common
At 330metres, Cleeve Hill and Common is the highest point of the Cotswolds. The site, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, lies at the top of the Cotswold scarp and is important for its extensive area of limestone grassland, as well as its many geological and landscape features.

Stroud Farmers’ Market
Stroud Farmers' Market is multi-award winning and is well known as one of the biggest and most popular farmers market in the UK. Every Saturday the market attracts hundreds of visitors to sample the mouth-watering range of organic and local produce on offer from across the area.

Nicola Greaves, Information & Interpretation Officer at the Conservation Board said: “This has been a fascinating campaign which has captured the imagination of many people across the Cotswolds. The final list is a very interesting one which represents some of the Cotswolds' most distinctive features which we plan to use to create some new ‘wonder walks’ to help more people access and enjoy our beautiful Cotswolds landscape."

-ENDS-

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape.
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk

Launched to coincide and help celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee this weekend, the new 14 walks have been created, designed, mapped and photographed by Cotswold Voluntary Wardens, the volunteer arm of the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

The circular walks are between 2.5 and 5 miles in length and have been especially created to avoid any stiles along the way, therefore enabling easy access to the countryside for more people. In addition to a comprehensive route map and directions, each walk is accompanied by a page of fascinating stories and facts along the way, such as sites of historical interest, areas rich in wildlife, cultural icons, archaeological treasures, quirky features and some colourful characters from the past, providing added interest and information for walkers.

All 14 routes are available to download direct from the Escape to the Cotswolds website – www.escapetothecotswolds.org.uk/jubilee, complementing the many other walking routes which have been devised by the Voluntary Wardens in previous years.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• There are around 300 active voluntary wardens in the Cotswolds AONB who donate many thousands of hours each year towards achieving the aims of the Cotswolds Conservation Board.
• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape.
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk
   

Rachel, who has written Treasure Hunts, Murder Mystery Hunts and Spy Mission Trails to encourage the exploration of different parts of the Cotswolds, said:

"I had for some time been thinking that I’d like to write a longer Treasure Trail (most of our fun walking Trails are 1.5 – 4 miles long) and so last autumn I seized the opportunity to combine doing so with the personal challenge of walking the 102 mile National Trail. Here in the Cotswolds we are incredibly lucky to have such a glorious landscape on our doorstep and having written many Treasure Trails which touched on the National Trail yet didn’t quite manage to take in the rural magnificence of the Cotswold Way, I had been looking to find a way to include those gems of historical and scenic significance that were slightly further out of the towns and villages than could be accommodated in our standard Treasure Trails. This seemed like the perfect solution".

Treasure Trails are aimed at getting families, couples and groups of friends out and about in the fresh air, exploring, experiencing and learning about their local region in a fun and unique way. There are currently 35 different trails based in towns and villages all over Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds, and another 950 in other counties across the UK with more being added all the time.

All trails are based on the same concept, with clues to be solved, the answers to which are located on existing buildings, monuments and structures. Children (and adults!) love the thrill of being the first one to find a clue and solve the mystery as well as spending quality time together as a family away from the TV, on a healthy and fun walk.

In the case of the Cotswold Way Companion Trail instead of a circular walk with step-by-step directions from clue to clue this trail follows the linear route of the Cotswold Way from Chipping Campden in the north to Bath Cathedral in the south. There’s a clue every 5 or 6 miles, based on locations such as Belas Knapp, Nympsfield Long Barrow, the Tyndale Monument, the Battlefields at Lansdown and the many topographs up on the peaks. It’s intended as a fun way of punctuating the way-marked route and throwing in an added dimension (although you are advised still to take a guide book). What’s more, as with all Treasure Trails, customers who submit the correct answer online not only stand a chance of winning £1000 in the annual Treasure Trails prize draw but in this case will also receive their Cotswold Way Completer’s Badge if they send in a photo to the Hall of Fame.

James Blockley, National Trail Officer for the Cotswold Way said: "We think this is a great way of engaging people with their surroundings and hope that by working with Treasure Trails we will encourage more people to grab their boots and explore the Cotswold Way. Furthermore we are delighted that Treasure Trails have agreed to donate part of the proceeds of all sales of the new Trail towards the upkeep of the Cotswold Way"

The trail forms part of the new Cotswold Way Discovery which is an exciting set of fun activities and learning resources for parents, teachers and young people. Click here for more information.

Trails are available for £5.99 from Tourist Information Centres,

selected retail outlets including the Escape to the Cotswolds discovery centre in Northleach or the Treasure Trails website.
 

This year´s motto is `See the sky. Touch a tree. Feel the air. Find yourself'. It is simple and individualistic, and intends to inspire people to enjoy and appreciate the natural treasures in their own country and all over Europe.

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

Guided walks along the Wardens and Windrush Ways, the Macmillan Way, as well as walks taking place in Elkstone, Marshfield, the Slaughters and others are on offer by the Cotswolds Voluntary Wardens all this week.  The Escape to the Cotswolds discovery centre, set in the Old Prison at Northleach, which will be open between Wednesday and Saturday, also provides a unique way of finding out more about this fascinating landscape.

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

Olympic Torch Route 2012

The Olympic Torch Relay will make its way through the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty as part of a 70-day tour across the UK before it arrives at London's Olympic Stadium for the opening ceremony on 27th July.   The Torch Relay can be seen in the Cotswolds on the following dates:

Tue 22 May:   Bradford on Avon and Bath

The torch is due to reach Bradford on Avon at 14.26. The route will be: Trowbridge Road (from Moulton Drive); turn left into Junction Road; turn right into Frome Road; continue along St Margaret’s Street; over the bridge; turn left at the roundabout up Market Street; turn right into Mason’s Lane; turn left into Bath Road; turn left on to Winsley Road; end on Winsley Road at Downs View.  The torch will then travel in convoy to Bath and arrive in the city via the University of Bath at Claverton Down, beginning its journey at 3.28pm. The cavalcade will go down Bathwick Hill and then turn into Great Pulteney Street before the torch is carried across Pulteney Bridge, around the Guildhall and then up High Street, New Bond Street and Milsom Street to George Street. After going up Lansdown Road, it will turn into Bennett Street, go around the Circus before following Brock Street to the world-famous Royal Crescent. In perhaps the most photogenic of the stretches, a runner will then carry the torch in front of the crescent, where bollards will be lifted to allow the relay to turn into Marlborough Building. The flame will then be carried out of the city on Upper Bristol and Newbridge roads, reaching Oldfield School at 4.43pm. The torch will be carried by a vehicle to its next port of call in Bitton, where it is expected to arrive at 5pm and be carried on foot again.

Wed 23 May:   Cirencester, Stroud, Painswick and Cheltenham

The Olympic torch will arrive in Cirencester at 3:45pm where it will be carried along London Road, Lewis Lane, South Way & North Way before entering the Market Place and then onto Castle Street and finally Sheep Street before it continues in convoy mode along the A419 towards Stroud.  The torch will enter Stroud at around 4.15pm and be carried through Stroud town centre, down London Road, past the four clocks and down Rowcroft before passing the new canal bridge and then along Merrywalks. It will then turn into Beeches Green and make its journey towards Painswick to arrive at 5pm. It will then be carried through the town and make its way towards Cheltenham Racecourse, where the evening celebration event will be held.

Sun 1 July:     Broadway and Chipping Campden

On day 44 of the relay, the torch will arrive in Station Road in Broadway at 12.10pm before the torchbearers carry it along High Street and up to the finishing point in Leamington Road. The flame will then move onto Chipping Campden to arrive at 12.30pm when it will be carried down Conduit Hill before heading along Sheep Street then onto Lower High Street before turning into Cidermill Lane and heading out of town via Station Road where it will continue from Castle Nurseries and onto Newbold-on-Stour along the B4035 in convoy mode.

For full details of the Olympic Torch Route, visit: www.london2012.com/torch-relay/route

On Friday 1 June, the original English Olimpicks games - Robert Dover's Cotswold Olimpicks - will take place in Chipping Campden, celebrating the 400th anniversary of this wonderful unique and historic event. For further information: www.olimpickgames.co.uk

The previous route from Ravensgate Common to Dowdeswell Reservoir followed a very steep and hazardous path down Ravensgate Hill. The new route now uses existing footpaths to keep to a higher level across the common, following the top of the escarpment through Lineover Wood and descending a more manageable slope before re-joining the old route through the eastern edge of the woods.

The new route is safer and more sustainable, and also gives some wider ranging views from the top of the common and east of Lineover Wood. The route change has been made possible by the hard work and dedication of a number of Cotswold Voluntary Wardens - the volunteer arm of the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

Details of maps and directions for the new route heading north to south can be found here

Details of maps and directions for the new route heading south to north can be found here
ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The Cotswold Way stretches 102 miles from Chipping Campden in the north of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to Bath in the south. www.escapetothecotswolds.org.uk/cotswoldway
• The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966 in recognition of its rich, diverse and high quality landscape.
• The Cotswolds AONB is looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – an independent organisation established in 2004 which has 37 members - 15 nominated by local authorities, 8 by parish councils and 14 appointed by the Secretary of State.
• The Cotswolds is the second largest protected landscape in England after the Lake District National Park and represents 10% of the total AONB area in the UK. 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.
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), along with National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the country and belong to an international family of protected areas. There are 38 AONBs in England and Wales, and a further eight in Northern Ireland. For further details, visit: www.landscapesforlife.org.uk