Natural England

Natural England will be launching a dating agency initiative at this year’s Driffield show that could help to transform the conservation of East Riding’s wildlife.

If you keep sheep, cattle or even ponies, and are enthusiastic about East Riding’s wildlife, Natural England would be keen to hear from you. The project aims to link livestock owners who are keen to find new low cost grazing areas with wildlife sites that need grazing.

Julian Small, advisor at Natural England said “Grazing has many benefits for the environment and has led to an increase in the region of species like woodlarks at Allerthorpe Common. We’re hoping to make contact with as many graziers as possible who are keen to support the project by linking their animals to land that is in need of conservation grazing.’

Many of the county’s most threatened wildlife areas are grasslands or wetlands that have been grazed by sheep, cattle or ponies for centuries. Today, there are fewer grazing animals that can thrive on these ancient areas. Grazing reinvigorates habitats and creates space for orchids, breeding birds and tiny insects.

Natural England staff will be at the show and are keen to hear from you. Alternatively, if you would like more information, please contact Julian Small at Natural England’s York office on 01904 435500

Notes to editors

For pictures of cattle and heathland, additional information and interviews please contact Emma MacDonald on 0113 2303533 or 07900 608073 emma.macdonald@naturalengland.org.uk or Lyndon Marquis on 0113 2303534 or 07786277223 lyndon.marquis@naturalengland.org.uk

The Natural England stand number is W275 and is located between the Enterprise Village and the Year of Food & Farming Zone

Natural England staff will also be at the show to share their passion for the East Riding’s farming and wildlife. Information will be available about their work to protect and enhance wildlife and habitats, grants schemes for farmers and information on protected species like bats and great crested newts.

Natural England works for people, places and nature to conserve and enhance biodiversity, landscapes and wildlife in rural, urban, coastal and marine areas. We conserve and enhance the natural environment for its intrinsic value, the wellbeing and enjoyment of people, and the economic prosperity it brings. www.naturalengland.org.uk