All posts by jefftravis

Inspiring new sculpture trail brings stories of precious South Downs heaths to life

September 11th, 2020

Intricate pieces of art that tell the story of the history, wildlife and people of heathlands have been unveiled and are now ready to be explored. Inspired by stories from communities and drawing upon sources as diverse as the poet Tennyson and a 391-year-old local map, the educational trail links seven precious heathland sites in […]

Can you help with South Downs Covid-19 research?

September 10th, 2020

People living in East Sussex are being invited to take part in a research study to give their thoughts on how Covid-19 has changed their relationship with the South Downs. The study is being led by the National Trust, South Downs National Park Authority and partners as part of the lottery-funded Changing Chalk project – […]

Tribute to a dedicated advocate for the South Downs

September 10th, 2020

Looking back at the illustrious life of Lord Renton is Phil Belden, who was Countryside Manager/Deputy Chief Officer under Lord Renton’s Chairmanship of the South Downs Joint Committee (with thanks to Martin Beaton, ex-CEO of the South Downs Joint Committee, for his reflections) Lord Renton was the independent Chairman of the forerunner to the South […]

Major lottery boost for cultural heritage sites in South Downs National Park

September 10th, 2020

Much-loved heritage sites in the South Downs have received a welcome boost after winning lottery funding. The historic Cowdray Ruins, which are set in the heart of the National Park and opposite the South Downs Centre, will benefit from £45,200 in lottery funding. Due to the need for urgent repair works the magnificent ruins, both […]

Why hedges can be havens for nature

September 10th, 2020

Ollie Seal, Assistant Ranger for the Central Downs team, explains the art of hedgelaying…and how it can give a big boost to nature. Is there any better use of a hedge than to lay it? Maybe. But the benefits of doing so are phenomenal. Hedgelaying is a practice that the National Hedgelaying Society describe as […]