NEW Hampshire coordinator in place
20th January 2010
Peter Thompson, of Cheriton, will be working with farmers to help species as diverse as the brown hare, common frog and prickly poppy under the Campaign.
As the newly appointed coordinator for the Campaign in Hampshire, Peter will be helping farmers to take grassroots action. He is well known among the farming fraternity as an adviser for the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust, based at Fordingbridge in Hampshire, and delivering advice nationwide.
Peter says: "This is a great opportunity for Hampshire farmers to lead the way, as they so often do, by creating new habitats for farmland birds and other wildlife, while at the same time ensuring that the soil and water on their farms is well protected. If we can all do our bit, not only can we have a flourishing working countryside, but we can also help farmers avoid greater regulation in the future."
NFU South East senior policy adviser Sandra Nichols says: "The Campaign aims to demonstrate that environmental work can work hand in hand with commercial farming. Peter's practical experience, as well as his involvement in the development of the Campaign at a national level, will prove invaluable."
Ben Underwood, Assistant Regional Director of the CLA in the South East, explains: "The aim is to enhance the farmed environment in a way that does not compromise farm businesses and actually provides opportunities for the industry to show off the voluntary conservation work already being undertaken on many holdings. As Hampshire coordinator, Peter will organise local events on demonstration farms, provide guidance and ultimately will ensure the Campaign gains momentum, gaining the support of as many farmers and landowners in Hampshire as possible."
To contact Peter email peter.thompson@cfeonline.org.uk
