Volunteers committed to the conservation of the South Downs achieved almost 6,000 days of effort in the twelve months to April 2008, according to the Annual Review just published by the South Downs Joint Committee.

Tasks varied from replacing fencing and stiles, such as that on the Downs at South Stoke near Arundel, (above) to carrying out wildlife surveys and practical work to conserve threatened chalk downland habitat. Keen local walkers spent 253 days ensuring that public footpaths and other rights of way were clear, whilst other volunteers checked the condition of more than 50 Scheduled Ancient Monuments. In all, 724 practical tasks were tackled as a result of local people generously giving their time and skills.

The Volunteer Ranger Service makes an important contribution to the delivery of the work of the South Downs Joint Committee and its partners including Natural England, The National Trust, The Forestry Commission, local councils and a range of smaller local groups.

Ian Hartle, Volunteer Co-ordinator for the South Downs Joint Committee, expressed his gratitude to the Volunteer Ranger Service, saying:

‘It really is an honour to be associated with a group of individuals who do so much to ensure the future of the landscape and wildlife of the South Downs. The volunteers’ work makes the Downs a better place for people and wildlife.’