BAP Fair

Ryedale's pioneering "green” fair was hailed a resounding success after more than 1500 people packed Malton's Milton Rooms to investigate the district's wildlife and ways of going environmentally friendly.

The day-long event on Saturday 10th February, a joint venture between NYCC and RDC, attracted some 38 organisations and experts skilled in charcoal, ponds, making bird cakes, bat boxes and restoring heather moorland.

County Councillor Clare Wood, the County Council's executive member for the environment said "our two authorities work together with partners to improve wildlife and the countryside, giving opportunities for enjoyment of the natural world as well as economic benefit from sustainable tourism and the sale of local produce”.

She added "The education of our people in environmental matters is vital”.

Biodiversity work over the next few years is a key part of the joint County Council and Ryedale Council countryside management programme.

One of the most popular attractions was the mammal tracking with the Howardian Hills AONB and the free trees given away. The event marked the launch of Ryedale's new biodiversity action plan.

"We are urging people to get involved in managing local wild spaces for wildlife or to join a volunteer scheme, as well as to improve gardens and farms by wild flower planting and to create habitats for the wealth of wildlife we have in Ryedale” said Susan Bragg, Countryside Officer for the Ryedale area.

For further details of how you can get involved contact:

Susan Bragg (sue.bragg@ryedale.gov.uk)
Don Davies (don.davies@ryedale.gov.uk)
Tel: 01653 600666 extension 333.

News Posted: 10 February 2007