Shipwreck film nominated for archaeology ‘Oscar’

A film about the shipwrecks in the Solent has been short-listed for an award at The Archaeology Channel’s International Film and Video Festival in Oregon, America.

‘Shipwrecks of the Western Solent’ is a 28 minute film investigating five different shipwrecks in a busy shipping lane in southern England; the Ceres, Fenna, SS War Knight, SS Serrana and MV Margaret Smith.

The film was made by award-winning underwater cameraman Michael Pitts in partnership with the New Forest National Park Authority for the New Forest Coastal Heritage project.*

‘Making the film wasn’t as easy as it sounds,’ said Michael Pitts. ‘Maritime archaeology is full of challenges and none more than on the south coast. If anyone has been across the Solent on the Isle of Wight ferry and looked in the waters they will have noticed that they are not crystalline.

‘It took a lot of hard work and after the initial disappointments we soon learnt to dive the right tides and with the knowledge and expertise of our skipper, we finally had enough footage to put the film together.’

James Brown from the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘The New Forest has a vast coastal history and the aim of the film was to capture a snapshot of this. With the risk of rising sea level and the threat of climate change it is important that we start working on a detailed record of what lies beneath the Solent.

Making a film seemed like a logical part of recording this work, as well as opening the subject up to new and wider audiences. We are delighted to have been shortlisted for an award.’

Richard Pettigrew, President and Executive Director of the Archaeological Legacy Institute, said: ‘We congratulate the makers of this film. The quality of this year’s film entrants was extremely high. We received 90 entries from 22 countries and we only short-list 27 films.’

The film and video festival will run from the 8-12 May. For more information visit www.archaeologychannel.org/content/TACfestival.shtml.

To buy your copy of the film go to www.foreststore.co.uk

Merrell and UK National Parks announce plans to inspire new generation of outdoor fans

Merrell, the outdoor footwear and apparel specialist, and UK National Parks have launched an updated UK National Parks Visitor Passport to inspire a new generation of outdoor fans to ‘Get Outside’ and discover the spectacular British countryside – plus are offering lucky outdoor enthusiasts the chance to win top of the range Merrell gear.

The partnership was initially launched in Spring 2011 and will now see Merrell extend its work with the UK National Park Family, including the New Forest National Park, by distributing ‘Visitor Passports’ to a whole new audience of Merrell customers throughout the UK via in-store point of purchase materials and by promoting the passports through the Merrell UK website and social media platforms.

Outdoor fans will also have the chance to be kitted out in premium Merrell product after obtaining a UK National Parks’ Visitor Passport.

Emily Carr, Marketing Executive at Merrell said: ‘Merrell encourages everyone to Get Outside and make the most of the wonderful British landscape, so we’re delighted to be supporting a scheme that does this within the UK National Parks.

‘All 15 National Parks offer a diverse range of dramatic and stunning scenery and we’re delighted to help enhance the adventures of outdoor enthusiasts whilst tracking their progress using the Visitor Passports.’

The UK National Parks’ Visitor Passport allows guests to collect attendance stamps from each of the 15 National Parks – including the New Forest Centre in Lyndhurst - as a lasting memory of the unique adventure and discovery experience. The UK National Parks are spread across England, Scotland and Wales, and offer a truly diverse combination of mountains, meadows, moorlands, woods and wetlands.

Carl Lis - Chairman of the UK Association of National Park Authorities (UK ANPA) said:
‘We are delighted to be working with Merrell who share the same aspiration as the UK National Parks - to encourage more people to get out and enjoy the countryside. With the current difficult financial situation, more people than ever are staying at home to enjoy what the UK has to offer and whether you want to relax and enjoy the tranquillity, join in a family event or get into some adrenalin-filled activities then there’s something for everyone in your nearest National Park.’

New members sought for New Forest National Park Authority

The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Caroline Spelman, has announced her intention to appoint two new members to the New Forest National Park Authority.

The Secretary of State appoints members to reflect the national importance placed on national parks, with responsibility for conservation, recreation, planning, access, land management and resources as well as reflecting both local and national interests.

The vacancies arose after Clive Chatters and Roger Heape stood down. Mr Chatters had served since the National Park was established in 2005 and was Chairman between 2007 and 2010. Mr Heape was appointed in 2006 and was Chairman of the Resources and Performance Committee from 2006 to 2010. Both represented the Authority on several external organisations.

Julian Johnson, Chairman of the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘I very much appreciate the time and commitment they both gave to the New Forest during the time that they served as a member, particularly as the National Park was being established, and their work was greatly appreciated.’

The new appointments will commence in May 2012, or as soon after as practical, and are initially for up to four years with the option of re-appointment for a total period of up to eight years.

Applications are particularly encouraged from members of ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, women and young people.

Application forms and further details are available online at http://publicappts.defra.gov.uk/ or from Chris Buxton at Natural England, Foundry House, 3 Millsands, Riverside Exchange, Sheffield, S3 8NH (telephone 0300 060 2745) or email boardservices@naturalengland.org.uk .

The deadline for receipt of applications is Monday 13 February 2012.

For more information about NPAs go to www.defra.gov.uk/rural/national-parks/.

For enquiries about the New Forest National Park Authority vacancies, please contact David Stone on 01590 646645, email david.stone@newforestnpa.gov.uk.

New Forest National Park Authority moves to new home

The New Forest National Park Authority says its move this week to new headquarters at Lymington Town Hall will save money and improve accessibility for residents and visitors.

The National Park Authority has been in temporary accommodation at South Efford House, Everton, since it began in 2006 and the lease expires next month.

By renting part of the building at the Avenue Road site from New Forest District Council (NFDC), the Authority says there will be significant advantages and financial savings from the joint arrangement.

National Park Chairman Julian Johnson said: ‘With good transport links to Lymington Town Hall our services will be much more accessible to our visitors and residents.

‘By co-locating at the Town Hall there are efficiencies to be made both in terms of accommodation costs and opportunities for shared services – delivering further savings for the benefit of local taxpayers.’

Cllr Barry Rickman, Leader of New Forest District Council: ‘We’re looking forward to sharing office accommodation with the National Park Authority and the significant advantages and financial savings that will be made from this joint arrangement.’

The NPA received a central government grant of £750,000 to refurbish the building.

New Forest Ponies don’t dent they die

Drivers along the B3054 (between Lymington and Dibden Purlieu) are being reminded to drive carefully and avoid New Forest ponies thanks to a school boy’s winning slogan.

Oliver Smith’s ‘Ponies don’t dent they die’ was chosen from 200 entrants to a recent ‘Saving ponies through art’ competition which aimed to get young people involved in creating clear messages to drivers across the New Forest.

From left to right- Nigel Matthews, Community and Visitor Services Manager  at the New Forest National Park Authority, Oliver Smith from Bournemouth Collegiate School, Jonathan Gerelli, Head Agister and Rick Manley, Chairman of The New Forest Trust

Nigel Matthews, Community and Visitor Services Manager at the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘The signs between Lymington and Dibden Purlieu are part of a pilot scheme. The messages on the bottom of the signs change regularly depending on the time of year.

‘The B3054 has one of the highest animal accident rates in the New Forest, with an average of 30 accidents (14 animal deaths) in recent years. The accidents often take place at night and increase in November and December as the nights draw in. I hope this new sign will remind drivers that they need to be ready to stop when they see ponies and cattle beside, or on the road.’

Rick Manley, Chairman of The New Forest Trust which ran the competition on behalf of the Animal Accident Reduction Group*, said: ‘This competition has helped young people to engage with some of our work across the New Forest and we hope it has allowed them to explore, through their designs, ways of protecting our animals and our local environment. Well done to Oliver for coming up with such a powerful slogan.’

Oliver Smith (13 years old) from Bournemouth Collegiate School who designed the winning slogan, said: ‘I came up with the slogan when I thought about what happens to ponies and drivers during a crash. When I went to the New Forest Show in the summer I was shocked at how fast some people were driving with ponies so close by. It is worrying to think that if a pony attempted to cross the road it would have little chance of survival if it was hit by a speeding car.’

In 2010 there were 65 animal deaths on New Forest roads, the lowest since records began in 1956.

‘New Forest remembers- untold stories of World War II’ wins Heritage Lottery Fund support

The New Forest National Park Authority has received a confirmed* grant of just over £550,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for the project ‘New Forest remembers - untold stories of World War II’.

From left to right-New Forest National Park Authority’s Archaeologist Frank Green, John Levesley Secretary of Friends of New Forest Airfields and Julian Johnson, Chairman of the National Park Authority.

The project will carry out essential archaeological surveying of part of the New Forest National Park including an airborne infra-red LiDAR survey (light detection and ranging), mapping work and field surveys. These will record World War II archaeological sites and their conservation needs.

Volunteers will be recruited and an outreach programme will be designed to engage local communities, groups and organisations. Teaching resources and educational activities will also be developed to link World War II archaeology with the National Curriculum.

On the ground a range of new information and outreach materials will show visitors the important part the New Forest and its people played during the war.

Stuart McLeod, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in the South East, said: ‘The New Forest holds many clues to the stories of World War II and how it impacted on the communities in the area. With this grant, volunteers will not only expand their knowledge and learn lots of new skills, but it will also provide a unique record of the area for others to learn from, enjoy and be inspired by for generations to come.’

Julian Johnson, Chairman of the New Forest National Park Authority, added: ‘We’re delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund has given us this grant. The Second World War changed the New Forest forever. It played a vital role and it is important that we have an accurate picture both on the ground and through people’s memories and experiences of this unprecedented period of history.’

Bats: mysterious and misunderstood – It’s time to go batty about bats says the New Forest National Park Authority

A rare Bechstein’s bat in the New Forest.
Photo Credit: Colleen Mainstone, Hampshire Bat Group.

To some people they bring to mind vampires and horror stories. But the New Forest National Park Authority says Hallowe’en is the perfect time to discover that bats are fascinating animals full of many mysteries.

The New Forest is a stronghold for bats and it is thought that 13 out of the 17 resident UK species can be found here.

The National Park Authority and the Hampshire Bat Group volunteers have been working over the past few years to help two of Europe’s rarest species.

Volunteers have been surveying Bechstein’s bats and barbastelle bats in the New Forest, both of which like to live in ancient woodlands. Until recently only a handful of breeding sites for either species were known in the UK.

National Park Authority Ecologist Ian Barker said: ‘The United Nations has designated 2011 as Year of the Bat and it’s the perfect time to dispel lots of myths about these incredible creatures. Bats aren’t harmful and are very good for the environment.

‘We know very little about Bechstein’s and barbastelle bats. Licensed handlers have caught some of the animals to identify, measure and record them, as well as fitting them with a tiny transmitter so we can learn where they roost and forage. None of this harms the bats and the transmitters fall off after a couple of weeks.

‘We have discovered four new colonies of Bechstein’s bat and two new colonies of Barbastelle bats – which is great news for the species and for the New Forest as their presence indicates a healthy environment.’
The information gathered will guide land management within the New Forest to help the species survive.

Ian says the best places to see bats are at dusk near water, such as Eyeworth Pond near Fritham and Hatchet Pond near Beaulieu. However time is running out this year as the bats will be preparing to hibernate.

‘There are lots of ways people can help bats, which have legal protection as they are dying out at a rapid rate,’ Ian said. ‘You can put up a bat box, add insect-loving plants to your garden to attract bats, or join Hampshire Bat Group to get more involved.’

More details of bats in the New Forest and how to help are on the National Park Authority’s website at www.newforestnpa.gov.uk.

Drive safely across the New Forest this winter

People who regularly drive across the New Forest are being urged to drive extra carefully this winter.

The New Forest National Park Authority and the Verderers want to remind people to be extra vigilant on their way to and from work; particularly after the clocks go back at the end of October.

Nigel Matthews, Community & Visitor Services Manager at the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘It can often take a while for people to adjust to the darker evenings and there is usually a significant rise in accidents in November.

‘A lot of ponies wear reflective collars but many don’t, so drivers should look out for dark-coloured ponies which are often more difficult to see. It is important to drive at a sensible speed and to make sure you can stop if an animal steps onto the road at the last moment. Ponies have no road sense so it is up to the driver to be extra cautious.

‘It’s not just the animals that are at risk in an accident. If the driver is speeding the results could be catastrophic for their passengers too.’

Sue Westwood, Clerk to the Verderers added: ‘Now is a timely reminder that we all need to be extra careful when driving in the New Forest.

‘Animal accidents are not only difficult for the people involved but also for the Agisters  whose job it is to find the animal, which may have been suffering for hours.

She continued: ‘Hit and runs are the most distressing of accidents – it’s vital that you report an accident straight away. Anyone who gives information leading to a successful prosecution can claim a reward of up to £1000.’

‘The Verderers have issued several rewards in recent years and a number of drivers have been successfully prosecuted for failing to stop and report an accident with a Forest animal.

‘Drivers who do report accidents are unlikely to be prosecuted, but if a driver fails to report an accident and is caught, the Verderers will always encourage the police to prosecute and the police are generally very willing to do so.’

Driving tips:

• Be ready to stop - ponies may step out even when they’ve seen you approaching
• Drive slowly, especially at night and when other cars are approaching with their headlights on
• Give animals grazing by the side of the road a wide berth
• Take extra care when there are animals on the verges on both sides of the road – they may cross to join their friends.
• Remember that deer easily jump the fences alongside roads like the A337, A31 and A35 and when there is one deer more will usually follow
• The faster you are going, the greater the damage will be to the animal, your car and your passengers - start your journey early so you don’t have to hurry.

If you witness an accident:

• Call 999 in an emergency or 0845 045 4545 in a non-emergency to report any road traffic accident involving a pony, cow, donkey, sheep, dog or deer.  Alternatively ring the Verderers’ Office during normal working hours on 023 8028 2052 (Monday-Friday 9am-5 pm) or the Forestry Commission on 023 8028 3141 (24 hours) to report sick or injured commoning animals.

Be prepared:

• Carry an animal accident hotline card, it tells you who to call and display an ‘I go slow for ponies’ car sticker. Visit www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/animal_accident_help or call 01590 646600 for more information on how to get a card and sticker.

NFNPA - Consultation on draft Design Guide

The New Forest National Park Authority would like your views on a draft guide that aims to help protect the New Forest’s beautiful landscape and distinctive character.

The guide is intended to help and support applicants and agents in preparing proposals for development in the New Forest. It goes through the design process -from understanding landscape and settlement characteristics, to rural building influences, as well looking at matters such as external lighting and opportunities for wildlife. It provides a useful reference to what makes the New Forest a special place.

From Friday 9 September to Friday 21 October comments are being sought on the New Forest National Park Design Guide - Supplementary Planning document that supports the Core Strategy.

Pat Wyeth, joint Lead Member for Local Distinctiveness at the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘The Guide aims to inform planning decisions and safeguard the National Park well into the future.’

Leo Randall, also Lead Member for Local Distinctiveness at the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘It provides a framework to achieve high standards of design and is intended to inspire applicants, agents and others.’

The draft Design Guide aims to:

• Maintain and enhance the Forest’s rural landscape and built character, while embracing sustainability
• Seek to retain valued Forest buildings that make a positive contribution to the historic character and appearance of the locality
• Improve areas where there is the opportunity to reverse the effects of less sensitive development
• Encourage communities to involve themselves in the design issues relating to the distinct character of the National Park.

The draft Design Guide and response forms are available from www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/design-guide or from the Authority’s headquarters at South Efford House, Milford Road, Everton, Lymington, Hampshire SO41 0JD.

Please email comments to policy@newforestnpa.gov.uk or post them to the Authority’s headquarters by 5:00pm on Friday 21 October 2011.

Recommended Reading: New Forest National Park: Short Walks by local author David Foster

Sustainability through the key hole

If you are keen to learn more about how you can make your home sustainable put the 10-11 September in your diary for the ‘Green open doors’ event.

Organised by the New Forest National Park Authority and New Forest Transition the two-day event showcases renewable energy technologies.

There are nine properties opening their doors across the New Forest in: Ashurst, Bashley, Beaulieu, Fordingbridge, Lymington, Lyndhurst, Milford-on-Sea, New Milton and Totton.

Three of the properties have been successful applicants to the National Park Authority’s Sustainable Development Fund, a grant scheme to encourage sustainable living in the National Park. It has funded almost 100 projects in the New Forest; many of these have been renewable energy schemes.

Claire Gingell, Interim Project Delivery Manager at the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘This event really enables people who come along to get involved. They have the opportunity to speak to the owners, see technology at work and share their knowledge and experience.’

New Forest Transition is a group of local people who share a common desire to tackle the environmental and economic challenges we are facing and build more resilient communities.

For more information on this free event and opening times of the properties and to download a map of the buildings visit www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/visiting/whats-on/greenopendoors

Recommended Reading: New Forest National Park: Short Walks by local author David Foster

Free cycling event for children with disabilities

Young person at Blackwater
on an all ability bike.

Children and young adults with learning or physical disabilities or who have autism are being invited to attend two ‘open’ cycling sessions if they are between the ages of eight and 19 years old.

There are 10 places available for young people to try a full range of nine all ability bikes at Blackwater just off Rhinefield Drive near Brockenhurst on Wednesday 31 August and Wednesday 14 September.

All helmets and instructions are included in this ‘free’ event and there is parking, accessible toilets and a picnic area.

Those attending the event will need to be accompanied by a parent or carer and families are welcome to come along and watch.

Chris Gregory, Transport and Tourism Officer at the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘These sessions provide a great introduction to cycling for young people with disabilities. The introduction of these highly specialised bikes makes cycling in the New Forest more accessible and more inclusive than ever before.'

For more information about the types of bikes that are available to try visit www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/inclusive-cycling/bikes and for more information about the event go to www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/inclusive-cycling-event2

Recommended Reading: The New Forest National Park: Leisure Walks for All Ages

Robust governance procedures in place says National Park Authority

The New Forest National Park Authority today (15 August) said it has acted upon an Audit Commission report into the processes which saw changes of senior officers two years ago, in summer 2009.

New Forest National Park Authority Chairman Julian Johnson, who became Chairman in June 2010, said: ‘This report relates to a very difficult period for the Authority, now over two years ago.

‘We acknowledge that at that time, since the organisation needed to act quickly and decisively in difficult circumstances, some processes were not taken forward in the best way. However, it is important to mention that the course of action taken was backed by Members.

‘All the Auditor’s recommendations have already been implemented and we have a new team in place, with a new CEO who started in June 2010.’

He said: ‘As a publicly-funded organisation we are fully aware of our responsibilities to the community and tax-payer. When decisions were taken in 2009, I am clear that it was in the belief that it was the right course of action for the organisation, for the community and for the tax-payer.’

Mr Johnson said he was pleased the Auditor has recognised that improvements have already been achieved and the Authority’s commitment to continuing this process.

He added: ‘We have always been keen for the report to be published and fully respect the Auditor’s responsibilities. I am confident that the Authority has moved forward significantly since 2009, has developed robust and transparent governance procedures and is working closely with its partners to deliver lasting benefits for the New Forest. We have responded to the recommendations and will continue to move forward positively from a turbulent period and to focus on all important delivery for the New Forest.

‘Our recent Annual Report shows we are championing the Forest and are focussed on delivery:

• engaging over 8,000 children and young people in learning about the Forest
• helping to secure very significant funding for commoning and habitat management on the Open Forest
• supporting many community projects through our Sustainable Development Fund – with over 100 projects in place engaging around 55,000 people and drawing in new funding of £1.8 million
• recording new information about our coastal heritage and engaging 200 volunteers in doing this
• adopting a Core Strategy giving clear planning guidelines for the National Park
• working closely with Parishes on planning and a wide range of other projects such as the creation of a community nature reserve at Landford.’

Recommended Reading: The New Forest National Park: Leisure Walks for All Ages

National Park tells Forestry Panel New Forest should be managed as one unit

The New Forest National Park Authority is calling on the Independent Panel on Forestry to keep the New Forest as a single entity when it considers the area’s future in its review of English forestry.

The NPA’s official response to the Panel’s ‘call for views’ says the New Forest’s Crown lands should continue to be managed ‘in an integrated way as a single unit, drawing on the expertise and significant knowledge that already exists in the Forestry Commission locally’ to look after it effectively.

The Independent Panel was set up to advise Government on the future of England’s forests and woods by April 2012.  It has a wide-ranging remit including advising on the future direction of forest and woodland policy.

In its response, the Authority said the future management of the Crown Lands is critical to the integrity of the National Park and should be focused on maintaining and enhancing the special qualities of the area.

The National Park Authority also said that any future organisation responsible for the Crown Estate would have to bring together a wide range of groups with interests in the Forest and that ‘public accountability should be maintained or improved’.

‘This would require an organisation of sufficient size and with a clear remit, able to resolve often competing interests,’ the report said.

It needs ‘a strong culture of stakeholder consultation and involvement and the ability to bring together and work closely with a range of different local interests’, the report continued.

New Forest National Park Authority Chairman Julian Johnson said: ‘We have told the Panel that the New Forest warrants special consideration. Our Members were very clear that effective management of the area will require planning and delivery over a number of years, and therefore a long-term funding commitment.  As a recognised national asset of outstanding public importance,  the National Park Authority considers that a publicly managed New Forest remains the most practical and accountable option.

‘The national and international significance of the area, the complexity of its history and present management, the extent of open public access, the critical role of commoning and the sheer scale of its natural habitats all make the New Forest unique amongst England’s forests.’

Recommended Reading: The New Forest National Park: Leisure Walks for All Ages

Discover the Forest’s history, traditions and culture at the ‘New Forest in a nutshell’ events

Ever wondered how many ponies there are in the New Forest? How was the New Forest created? What special creatures live here?

Answers to all these questions and more will be provided at the New Forest National Park Authority’s ‘New Forest in a nutshell’ events.

Designed for visitors and residents new to the area, or those who just want to know a little bit more about the Forest, the series of events is hosted by a National Park Authority Ranger. You will be guided on a gentle stroll from the New Forest Centre in Lyndhurst to take in the stunning scenery and learn about the New Forest’s unique history and the iconic New Forest pony.

After the walk visitors will be given a bumper pack of information including the National Park pocket guide and free entry to the New Forest Centre, a museum which is packed with information about the New Forest’s fascinating traditions, wildlife and culture. The Centre also has an exhibition area, a large gift shop and a Visitor Information Centre.

Jim Mitchell, Interpretation Officer at the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘We have had great feedback from the first ‘New Forest in a Nutshell’ events we held in May. Our rangers can tell you about lots of unusual aspects of the New Forest which many visitors and even residents don’t get to hear about. Then afterwards you can enjoy the New Forest Centre’s excellent museum.’

The events run from 10:15am - 12:15pm on the following dates:

• Sunday 24 July
• Tuesday 2 August
• Sunday 7 August
• Tuesday 16 August
• Sunday 21 August
• Tuesday 30 August

Places cost £8 per adult, £4 per child and are free for under 5s.

Your free entry into the New Forest Centre, worth £3.50, can be taken at any time after the New Forest in a Nutshell event.

Book your place today by calling the New Forest Centre on 023 8028 3444 or visit www.newforestcentre.org.uk

Recommended Reading: New Forest National Park: Short Walks by local author David Foster

Parish council representatives proposed for New Forest National Park Authority

Parish Council-elected representatives to the New Forest National Park Authority are being put forward to the Government for approval.

The four parish councillors from each quarter of the National Park now need to be ratified by Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Caroline Spelman.

Elections are held every four years to coincide with Parish Council elections and were organised by the Hampshire Association of Local Councils (HALC), with voting closing on Thursday 7 July.

In the South West ‘quadrant’ of the National Park, a new member to the NPA is Cllr Richard Frampton, of Ringwood Town Council. From the 9 of 10 possible council votes, Cllr Frampton was elected after receiving 5 votes, with 3 going to Cllr Kathleen Gulliver of Sway Parish Council, and 1 going to Cllr John Hitchens of New Milton Town Council.

In the North East quadrant Cllr Bob Morris, a Landford Parish Councillor, continues as an NPA member. Landford is in Wiltshire, which is not holding parish council elections this year, and consequently an election is not due until 2013.

In the North West quadrant, Cllr John Sangar, of Woodgreen Parish Council, continues with his seat on the NPA as he was elected unopposed.

Cllr Clive Maton, Denny Lodge Parish Council, was elected to continue as an NPA member representing the South East quadrant. From the 8 of 9 possible council votes, Cllr Maton received a 7-1 majority against Cllr Beverley Thorne of Fawley Parish Council.

For more information visit the HALC website: www.hampshire-alc.gov.uk.

Recommended Reading: New Forest National Park: Short Walks by local author David Foster

National Park Authority encourages New Forest horse owners to back ragwort campaign

The New Forest National Park Authority is encouraging horse owners to take part in a campaign to prevent the ragwort weed after a survey by The British Horse Society identified Hampshire as the English county most infested with the deadly plant.

Every year animals die painful and unnecessary deaths as a result of damage to their liver from consuming Ragwort.

Last year, spurred by concern over the increase in reports, the BHS launched a nationwide survey to draw up a true picture of the extent and location of the weed. The results showed Hampshire to be the most infested county in England.

The National Park Authority is encouraging horse lovers to complete this year’s BHS ‘snapshot survey’ during BHS Ragwort Awareness Week next week (11-17 July 2011). If anyone spots ragwort during this period they are asked to spend just a couple of minutes filling in a form available on the BHS website, www.bhs.org.uk. All respondents will be entered into a prize draw to win one of two Mark Todd Blouson Jackets provided by the Mark Todd Collection.

By carrying out the survey in the same week annually, the BHS is hoping to gain an insight into trends in ragwort proliferation and to strengthen the argument to control it. This can then be used to encourage better enforcement of ragwort control and lobby for changes in legislation.

Steve Avery, the New Forest National Park Authority’s Director of Park Services, said: ‘Due to the importance of livestock and equine ownership in the vicinity of the Forest we would encourage landowners to take appropriate action to control common ragwort in line with the national code of practice. Local organisations and agencies already play an important part in controlling common ragwort where it is a threat but may not be aware of all areas where it poses a threat. ‘We would encourage individuals and communities to help by supporting the BHS survey and reporting dangerous outbreaks to the relevant landowner.’

Vet and dressage trainer Fiona Macdonald is Vice Chairman of the New Forest Equine Forum. She said: ‘The Equine Forum is delighted to support any initiative to reduce the potential threat of ragwort. It causes such a nasty disease in horses and ponies and it is not always obvious, so anything that can be done to reduce the risk has to be welcomed and supported.’

More than 75 percent of cases of ragwort reported in the 2010 survey involved land that animals were grazing on or near. Across the UK a total of 13,189 horses were identified as grazing on ragwort-infested pasture, with the figure for cattle and sheep being estimated as approaching 20,000. In more than one third of reports, the plant was said to cover at least half of the land.

Lee Hackett, BHS Head of Welfare, said: ‘By now, everyone involved with horses should know the danger that ragwort poses. Every year animals die as a result of consuming this deadly plant yet the problem seems to be getting worse.

‘Our 2010 survey was a great success and produced some fascinating results that we can use in our lobbying to get some action taken. But we need more data and we are appealing to anyone who cares about equine welfare to become involved in 2011. The survey only takes a couple of minutes to fill out but the information we obtain might just be what we need to effect a substantial change.’

Recommended Reading: Learn to Ride with The British Horse Society

Help excavate the New Forest National Park

Volunteers excavating at a Salt Boiling house
near Lymington

To celebrate the ‘Festival of British Archaeology’ the New Forest National Park Authority invites you to explore some salty archaeology secrets at a series of events for all ages.

From Monday 18 July to Friday 22 July the Authority’s Maritime Archaeology Education and Outreach Officer James Brown will be running a guided walk called ‘Salty Secrets’ at Pennington Marshes.

The two-mile walk through the remnants of Lymington’s hidden salt production landscape will take you to where volunteers are currently excavating in an attempt to find the earliest evidence of salt production along the New Forest coast.

Along the way you will have the opportunity to learn about the long forgotten history of the salt boiling houses in Lymington, how they dominated the coastline, brought huge wealth to Lymington and some private individuals, before they went into rapid decline and nearly disappeared completely which is why the remaining examples are now so important.

Salt was a vital trade and the building which you will visit ceased production in 1865 - it was one of the last sea salt producers in the country to close. Evidence shows that at the industry’s peak in around 1730 there were 163 pans in the Lymington area. Between 1724 and 1766 Lymington exported 4,612 tons of salt in 64 ships - 12 cargoes were destined for Newfoundland, 33 to America and others to Norway, Ireland and the Channel Islands.

On Saturday 23 July an ‘Antiques Roadshow’ style event gives you the chance to bring along your archaeological finds to the New Forest Centre in Lyndhurst.

Every year thousands of objects are discovered, many by metal detector users but also by people out walking, gardening or by going about their daily work. Such important discoveries offer valuable clues into our past.

Experts from the Portable Antiques Scheme and the National Park Authority will be at the free event to answer your questions, provide information and tell you a bit more about your finds.

James Brown, the Authority’s Maritime Archaeology Education & Outreach Officer, said: ‘These events showcase a small example of the rich cultural heritage of the New Forest National Park. The national “Festival of Archaeology” is a great opportunity to learn about your own local heritage, to get involved and see archaeology in action.

‘The “Salty Secrets” walks will offer people an insight into a lost trade that ceased over 100 years ago. Anyone who comes along will have a great time and have a chance to talk to some of our volunteers about the work they do.

‘I’m really looking forward to what I could potentially discover at the identification day. Who knows what we may find. That is the beauty of archaeology- you never know what is going to turn up next.’

For event times and dates visit www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/visiting/whats-on/salty-secrets

Recommended Reading: Lymington and Pennington (Then and Now)

Equine Forum and National Park Authority invite views on planning guidelines

Draft planning guidelines about horse-related development have been prepared by the New Forest National Park Authority working in partnership with the New Forest Equine Forum.

The guidelines acknowledge the economic benefit that horse riding brings to the local economy, and aim to ensure that any related development does not have an adverse impact on the special qualities of the National Park.

A six-week consultation on the draft will be launched on 29 June and the National Park Authority is asking people to send in their views.

The New Forest Equine Forum was established in 2009 as an independent forum whose membership is drawn from a range of local interests including: commoners, Verderers, New Forest pony enthusiasts, equine businesses, local residents, parish councils and nature conservation groups.

Steve Avery, Director of Park Services at the National Park Authority, said: ‘The Authority has been working closely with the Equine Forum for the last two years and the draft guidelines aim to help with planning matters relating to horse-keeping in the National Park.’

Vet and dressage trainer Fiona Macdonald is Vice Chairman of the New Forest Equine Forum. She said: ‘The Equine Forum was born from the early days of unrest in the Forest as a result of the first draft of the National Park Plan. The change in approach from the Authority allowed the creation of some workshops and from them the Equine Forum was born.

‘The Forum members all share enthusiasm and passion not only for horses and ponies but also for the Forest. I am proud of the Equine Forum’s contribution in producing what we consider very satisfactory and practical guidelines.’

The public consultation period will run from 29 June to 10 August. Following the consultation the National Park Authority and the Equine Forum will consider the comments received. The final guidelines will be presented for formal adoption as a Supplementary Planning Document at the next National Park Authority meeting in September.

Once the guidelines are adopted they will form part of the Local Development Framework for the National Park, and will be considered when determining planning applications within the Park.

The draft guidelines can be viewed at the National Park Authority’s offices and can also be viewed on line at www.newforestnpa.gov.uk.

Please send your comments to the Policy Team, New Forest National Park Authority, South Efford House, Milford Road, Lymington SO40 0JD or email policy@newforestnpa.gov.uk by 5pm Wednesday 10 August 2011.

Recommend Reading: New Forest Ponies: Architects of the Forest

Penny Jackman joins National Park Authority

The New Forest National Park Authority welcomes new member Councillor Penny Jackman to the Authority.

Mrs Jackman said: ‘I am looking forward to being a member of the New Forest National Park Authority.  The Authority works with a large number of organisations and local people and I’m looking forward to getting involved and making a difference on the ground.’

Julian Johnson, Chairman of the New Forest National Park added: ‘We welcome Cllr Jackman onto the Authority and I look forward to working with her. She will bring a wealth of knowledge with her and she is actively involved in her local community; sitting on a number of different committees. Being a commoner she also understands the complexities of the New Forest.’

Mrs Jackman is one of two Councillors for the Pennington Ward where she has been a councillor for the past four years. She was one of the founding members of Forest Uprising in 2008 that worked closely with the Authority on a number of policies relating to recreational horse-keeping; she also helped establish the independent Equine Forum which is now central to this work.

She is a practising commoner and in her spare time she enjoys showing her New Forest Ponies with her daughters.

Recommended Reading: New Forest National Park: Short Walks

Explore the New Forest in a ‘nutshell’

If you are new to the area or want to learn more about this special place come along to one of the New Forest National Park Authority’s ‘New Forest in a nutshell’ events.

These events start at the New Forest Centre in Lyndhurst. Visitors will be met by a National Park Authority Ranger who will lead them on a three mile walk to take in the stunning scenery and learn about the New Forest’s unique history and the iconic New Forest pony.

After the walk visitors are given a bumper pack of information including the National Park pocket guide and have free entry to the New Forest Centre. Here they will find a museum packed full of displays and activities such as: the ‘pony challenge’, a game designed to help you learn why ponies are kept on the Forest and why you definitely shouldn’t feed them; a display of the Beaulieu Road pony sales with sound effects; and the new family fun tree - designed to get the whole family involved in learning about the animals and wildlife that live here.

The Centre also has an exhibition area, a large gift shop and a Visitor Information Centre.

Jim Mitchell, Interpretation Officer at the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘The New Forest is a fascinating place with lots of unusual aspects to it which many visitors and even residents don’t get to hear about. The aim of these walks and access to the New Forest Centre is to answer any questions people have and for our Rangers to talk about the New Forest, which isn’t new or a forest!’

The walk and talk with a Ranger takes place from 10:15am-12:15pm on the dates below and entry to the New Forest Centre can be taken any time after this.

Dates for your diary:
Sunday 29 May
Tuesday 31 May
Sunday 24 July
Tuesday 2 August
Sunday 7 August
Tuesday 16 August
Sunday 21 August
Tuesday 30 August

The event is £8 per adult, £4 per child and free for under 5s. To book your place contact the new Forest Centre on 023 8028 3444 or visit www.newforestcentre.org.uk.

Recommended Reading: New Forest (Landmark Visitor Guide)