Brighter Future for South Downs celebrated

9 July 2001

The writer and broadcaster, Libby Purves, and the actor and adventurer Brian Blessed, are leading a celebration of the wildlife, landscape and cultural heritage of the South Downs on Wednesday July 25th.

Libby Purves is handing over to Brian Blessed as President of the Council for National Parks, as well as launching a report on the future of the South Downs, a candidate National Park.

They will be joined by members of the Council for National Parks, WWF-UK and English Nature - partners in the report.

What: Launch of South Downs National Park report and hand over of Presidency of the Council for National Parks by Libby Purves and Brian Blessed. This will include a photo opportunity.

Where: Mount Caburn (see attached map), a National Nature Reserve managed by English Nature on the South Downs.

When: Rendezvous at Glynde Station at 12.00pm, Wednesday, July 25 for short walk up Mount Caburn.

Notes to editors

1  The Council for National Parks is the national charity that works to protect and enhance the National Parks of England and Wales and areas that merit National Park status, and promote understanding and quiet enjoyment of them for the benefit of all.
2  WWF - the global environment network - is celebrating 40 years of taking action to protect the environment for people and nature. It is now known simply by its initials and the panda logo, in line with the whole international network. WWF takes action to conserve endangered species, protect endangered spaces and address global environmental threats, by seeking long-term solutions.
3  English Nature is the Government agency that champions the conservation of wildlife and natural features throughout England. Among the National Nature Reserves which it manages five are within the proposed boundary of the National Park
4  Libby Purves is a writer, journalist and broadcaster. She currently hosts Midweek on BBC Radio 4. Libby will continue as a CNP Vice-President. Brian Blessed is an actor, writer and climber. He is currently appearing at the National Theatre. He has appeared on the stage, TV and in film and has published four books about his adventures including his ascent of Everest in 1991.
5  The report: "South Downs National Park: Opportunities for Enhancement" has many recommendations for a brighter future for the area. A more detailed press release about this will be sent out nearer the time with a 25th July embargo.
6  A location map is provided below. The main photo opportunity will be at 1230hrs however by prior arrangement pictures can be organised on the way up to the top of Mount Caburn.

 

For press queries please contact:
Ruth Chambers, Head of Policy on
020 7924 4077 ext. 222