National Trust MyFarm experiment to go free

Mon, 14 May 2012 16:26:22 GMT

The National Trust has announced that one year on from the launch of its innovative and award-winning MyFarm project, the charity is dropping the £30 sign-up fee in a bid to widen its success and inspire even more people to engage with farming and food.

The experiment - based at the Trust's 1,450 acre Wimpole Home Farm in Cambridgeshire - was launched last May to encourage people to learn about day-to-day farm life and get a better understanding of where their food comes from.

The virtual farmers are able to view day-to-day farm activities via blogs from the farm team, videos and live webcams. Significantly they can also influence what happens on the farm by voting on key decisions usually made by the farmer.

As the project moves into year two, the team behind the project are seeking to increase the number of people who take part in MyFarm, and cover a wider range of food topics.

Farm Manager Richard Morris said: "We've learnt a lot from our 5,000-strong audience over the last 12 months, especially how interested people are in following and finding out about the day-to-day running of the farm.

"The experiment has helped us deepen people's understanding of the challenges faced by farmers in the wider market place including the European and World markets, and enabled those involved to comment on a wide range of farming issues.

"It's been the animal stories that have really captured the public's hearts - both births and deaths. MyFarmers have also loved getting to know the farm team, the rare breed animals kept at Wimpole and the monthly votes which explore one particular aspect of farming in more depth, with the majority vote then carried out on the farm."

The National Trust is the country's biggest farmer and through MyFarm hopes to help people understand the issues facing farming today, the numerous and daily decisions farmers have to make, as well as the joy and the heartache which is part and parcel of farm life.

As part of the changes the Trust will also now host the experiment on its own website rather than the current microsite. It will also make broader use of social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter to interact with users and to encourage further discussion on food and farming issues.

Founding Farmers - those who joined in the first year - will be invited to continue as ambassadors on these platforms to encourage more people to join in; sharing the journeys they have been on over the last 12 months.

MyFarm Project Manager Andrew Cock-Starkey added: "Our members come from all over the world as well as from the UK and after a successful first year we believe we’ve established a clear demand for this kind of learning. Now we want to reach even more people and build a broader understanding of farming.

"Waiving the membership fee will, we hope, help us reach a much wider audience, as will ensuring we have appealing content for users of different ages across various platforms."

Deputy President of the National Farmers' Union Meurig Raymond said: "This project is an effective and fun way of engaging people in farming and the hard work and skill that goes into producing food for their table. With more and more people using social media to communicate, share views and influence decisions MyFarm also tackles some of the more serious issues and involves its supporters in the day-to-day running of a real-life farm."

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About National Trust:
The National Trust looks after more than 250,000 hectares of countryside, 710 miles of coastline and hundreds of historic places across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. For more information and ideas for family days out go to: www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

The National Trust launches new competition to capture the spirit of Octavia on camera

Mon, 14 May 2012 14:41:08 GMT

The National Trust has launched a new amateur photography competition called 'Your Space' which is set to celebrate green spaces and the life of National Trust founder Octavia Hill.

Run in conjunction with National Trust Magazine, the competition will run from May until August and asks people to capture what green spaces mean to them.

Four internationally-acclaimed photographers, Mary McCartney, Joe Cornish, Arnhel de Serra and Charlie Waite, have helped launch the 'Your Space' competition with a new collection of pictures at National Trust places that capture the relationship between people and green places.

Octavia Hill was a leading environmental campaigner in Victorian Britain. She campaigned to save green spaces in and around London, such as Parliament Hill, and, years ahead of her time, saw the benefit of spending time in the outdoors and closer to nature.

As one of three founders of the National Trust, Octavia Hill, set about acquiring green places and built heritage to be looked after by the charity for the benefit of the nation until she died in August 1912.

The competition is based around her writings on green space: 'We all need space; unless we have it we cannot reach that sense of quiet in which whispers of better things come to us gently [and we need] places to sit in, places to play in, places to stroll in, and places to spend a day in…'

The competition includes all green space in the UK, not just National Trust places, and hopes to capture images of everyday green places.

These could include pictures from the local park, where people play with their kids or walk their dogs, or favourite strolls in the countryside.

What is important is that the images capture what these places mean to the photographer and why they matter.

Fiona Reynolds, Director-General of the National Trust, said: "This competition is all about using photography to reflect on why green spaces matter to us as a nation. We're looking for powerful and inspiring images that celebrate this special relationship that we have with our parks and countryside."

There are four categories in the competition: ten and under, 11-16 year olds, over 16s and smartphones. Entries need to be submitted by 31 August 2012 and the full terms and conditions can be found on the website*.

The prize for the overall winner, worth £1,500, will include a bespoke one-to-one day long workshop with award winning landscape photographer Charlie Waite, a special landscape print and up to two nights stay in a National Trust holiday cottage.

The three runners-up will join Charlie at a National Trust property for day which includes lunch and behind-the-scenes tour.

A panel of judges, including Mary McCartney, Joe Cornish, Arnhel de Serra, Charlie Waite, Sue Herdman (Editor of National Trust Magazine) and Chris Lacey (National Trust Photographic Manager), will decide on the winners for the four categories. One of the category winners will then go on to be the overall winner of the competition.

Entries for the competition can be uploaded at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/yourspace and shared via Facebook and twitter.

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Notes to editors:
*The competition was launched on the 8 May 2012. Entries need to be submitted by the 31 August 2012. The judging panel, whose decision is final, will meet in late September 2012 and the winners will be announced in January 2013. Full terms and conditions for the competition will be available on the website. Images can be taken on National Trust land or on non-Trust sites.

About The National Trust:
The National Trust is one of the most important nature conservation organisations in Europe, looking after more than 250,000 hectares of countryside, 710 miles of coastline and hundreds of historic places across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The National Trust launches legal challenge against landmark wind farm decision

Fri, 11 May 2012 09:33:29 GMT

The National Trust, English Heritage and East Northamptonshire Council have made a joint legal challenge against planning permission for a wind farm that would be built within one mile of a Grade I listed building and registered park and garden.

The proposal would see four 126.5m wind turbines built within the setting of the Lyveden New Bield site, a place described by the Planning Inspector who granted approval for the plans as "probably the finest example of an Elizabethan garden [with a] cultural value of national if not international significance".

After planning permission was initially refused by the local Council, the development was given consent on appeal in March 2012. The three organisations started legal proceedings on 23 April under section 288 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. It is extremely rare for English Heritage and the National Trust to pursue legal action and it is the first time that East Northamptonshire Council has ever taken a case to this level.

Fiona Reynolds, Director-General of the National Trust explained the decision to take the matter to the Administrative Court: "We fully support renewable energy and have made our own commitment to halve our dependence on fossil fuels by 2020. We have also backed a number of wind proposals where scale and setting have been considered appropriate.

"However, the decision to allow a development of this size so close to one of the country's most treasured historic places is both damaging to Lyveden New Bield and could have serious implications for other heritage sites across the UK."

As a Grade I listed building, registered park and garden and scheduled ancient monument, Lyveden New Bield's unfinished Elizabethan lodge and gardens have the highest heritage designation possible. The wind turbines would be prominent, modern structures in a landscape that still evokes the character of Lyveden New Bield's historic Rockingham Forest surroundings. The turbines would be visible from almost everywhere on the property.

Simon Thurley, Chief Executive of English Heritage, said: "Our challenge to his decision is not simply about the balance of professional judgement between heritage and renewable energy. The Inspector did not adequately take into account the contribution that Lyveden New Bield's historic and rural surroundings make to its immense significance."

Leader of East Northamptonshire Council, Steven North added: "It is regrettable that it has come to this, but we fully support this legal challenge and will be working closely with the National Trust and English Heritage to protect this heritage site."

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Notes to Editors:
Section 288 provides a legal right for people who are affected by a planning permission to apply to the courts for redress if they can show that the decision maker made an erroneous decision in law. A challenge brought under section 288 is designed to put under judicial scrutiny the way in which the decision maker reached their decision rather than the merits of the decision.

Further information on the planning application (case reference 2156757) can be found at: www.pcs.planningportal.gov.uk/pcsportal/ViewCase.asp?caseid=2156757&coid=32833

The National Trust's response to the planning appeal can be seen at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/press/press-releases/view-page/item772786/

The National Trust's position on wind energy can be viewed at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/what-we-do/big-issues/energy-and-climate-change/our-views/view-page/item749709/

About English Heritage:
English Heritage is the Government's statutory advisor on the historic environment. They provide advice on how best to conserve England's heritage for the benefit of everyone. They work with landowners, businesses, planners and developers, national, regional and local government, the Third Sector, local communities and the general public to help them understand, value, care for and enjoy England’s historic environment.

About National Trust:
The National Trust looks after more than 250,000 hectares of countryside, 710 miles of coastline and hundreds of historic places across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. More information can be found at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

National Trust to debut new Wallace & Gromit animation over Jubilee Weekend

Thu, 10 May 2012 15:00:28 GMT

The National Trust has launched a campaign teaming up with national treasures Wallace and Gromit to help lead the country's Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

A weekend of over 70 Jubilee tea parties will be held across the country where the loveable duo's new mini animation will be shown for the first time ever at Trust places. The funny flick has been specially created for the festivities as part of the National Trust Summer of Celebration campaign and shows the pair preparing for the big weekend, by scaling the ladders to hoist the bunting up around a magnificent Trust manor.

The green grass carpet will be rolled out for the mini animation (titled 'A Jubilee Bunt-a-thon') and a behind-the-scenes documentary, which are to be exclusively screened at the Trust’s Jubilee parties. Their films have already been met with the royal seal of approval from Camilla declaring that Wallace and Gromit are Prince Charles' "favourite people in the world".

The one-minute animation begins in the familiar setting of 62 West Wallaby Street with the ever faithful and long suffering Gromit sitting at his sewing machine making miles of bunting to adorn National Trust places across the country.

Tony Berry, Visitor Experience Director of the National Trust, commented: "The National Trust and Wallace and Gromit are two of Britain's greatest treasures and we felt it fitting that in this summer of celebration we should bring them together. We are holding our very own premiere of Wallace & Gromit's Jubilee Bunt-a thon at our properties, it was made exclusively for the National Trust and we are really excited that it will encourage the nation to join us for an extra special Diamond Jubilee celebration."

Nick Park, creator of Wallace and Gromit, commented: "I have to pinch myself when I think how far Wallace and Gromit have come; from ideas in my head, to 'film stars' working with great organisations such as the National Trust, which the nation holds dear to its heart. At Aardman we are thrilled that Wallace and Gromit have had a chance to explore all the Trust has to offer, from helping to put up bunting to enjoying their Wensleydale cheese platter at a picnic. Wallace and Gromit are in for a cracking summer at the National Trust.

"The National Trust has a special place in my heart from a childhood memory of completing a paint- by- numbers at Stourhead, to Montacute House, on which we based Tottington Hall in the Curse of the Were-rabbit."

The nation's much loved comedy duo have paired up with the Trust for some cracking Jubilee parties this summer which, along with the debut of the mini animation and behind the scenes 'making of…' film, will also feature Wallace and Gromit model making workshops with trained Aardman animators, themed trails, a variety of fun games for children and exclusive themed retail and catering treats for all the family.

Wallace & Gromit's Jubilee Bunt-a-thon will be shown on 4th June at fourteen National Trust properties as part of the Summer of Celebration Diamond Jubilee parties. For a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Wallace and Gromit film visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallaceandgromit.

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About Aardman:
Aardman, based in Bristol (UK) co-founded and run by Peter Lord and David Sproxton, is a multi-award winning world leader in animation. It produces feature films, television series and television commercials for both the domestic and international market.

National Trust launches new heritage gardening courses

Tue, 08 May 2012 12:20:53 GMT

The National Trust has announced two new heritage gardening courses, representing the charity's most significant development in horticultural training for 20 years.

Co-funded by the National Gardens Scheme, the new courses will offer budding gardeners the opportunity to study for qualifications in heritage gardening and replace the Trust's Careership training scheme launched in 1991*.

For those new to heritage gardening, the one year Foundation Certificate will develop the essential practical skills needed to look after and nurture heritage gardens, and is aligned with the Royal Horticultural Society's (RHS) Level 2 in Horticulture.

The two year Diploma in Heritage Gardening is unique to the National Trust and offers what is arguably the most comprehensive grounding in heritage gardening available for those with some prior experience and relevant qualifications. It builds on the Foundation level training, providing trainees with an in-depth and working knowledge of heritage gardens.

Mike Calnan, Head of Gardens at the National Trust said: "Our new gardening courses are a great step forward and have been designed to develop the modern skills needed to sustainably manage major heritage gardens into the future. We believe they are a significant development for the sector and fill the training gap between existing botanic horticulture and amenity gardening diplomas.

"We can now offer two entry points and great opportunities for people wishing to develop a long and rewarding career in heritage gardening and a spring board for those aspiring to become our Head Gardeners of the future."

Developed in conjunction with Reaseheath College in Cheshire**, the gardening courses are largely practical, with trainees based at major National Trust gardens. To supplement this practical learning, trainees also spend 10 weeks a year at Reaseheath developing their horticultural knowledge.

In addition to traditional and modern techniques used in major gardens, trainees on the Diploma course will cover plant conservation, GPS surveys and plant databases; garden history, period planting styles, restoration, and interpretation and visitor engagement techniques.

Trainees on both courses will be able to work alongside the National Trust’s most experienced Head Gardeners in some of the most famous gardens in the country such as Sissinghurst, Hidcote and Stourhead. They will also learn about garden conservation from the National Trust's gardening experts and will have opportunities to develop additional skills and knowledge with placements at other Trust gardens.

The new courses start in September 2012 and there are 10 places available on each. Applicants can find out more information at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/gardencareers and apply from 27 April 2012.

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Editor’s notes:
* Launched in 1991, the National Trust’s successful Careership programme has trained over 200 new gardeners over the past 11 years. The Careership programme will finish in August 2012.
** Reaseheath College is a specialist land based college set in the heart of Cheshire near Nantwich. The College has a wide range of world class facilities including a large Agricultural estate and 21 acres of high quality grounds. The Horticulture department has a plant nursery and commercial glasshouse resources and a demonstration fruit and vegetable garden, a design studio using the latest high class IT technology and a commercial 9 hole golf course. The college prides itself in delivering outstanding education to a wide range of customers and has extensive industrial and community links within the Horticultural industry. We are extremely proud to be in partnership with the National Trust and delivering both of these qualifications, and to progress the opportunities available to all those who want to progress in Heritage Gardening.

About The National Trust:
The National Trust looks after and carries out conservation work for more than 250,000 hectares of countryside, 710 miles of coastline and hundreds of historic places across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

National Trust launches campaign to get children outdoors

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:42:19 GMT

The National Trust has launched a nationwide campaign to encourage sofa-bound children to take to the outdoors and enjoy classic adventures from skimming stones to building dens.

The '50 Things To Do Before You’re 11¾' initiative is in response to a report commissioned by the National Trust which highlighted research that fewer than one in ten children regularly play in wild places compared to almost half a generation ago, a third have never climbed a tree and one in ten can’t ride a bike.*

The charity's '50 Things To Do Before You’re 11¾' campaign provides a checklist for under-12s (and those who are young at heart) including everything from running around in the rain and bug hunting, to setting up a snail race, damming a stream, flying a kite and making a (delicious) mud pie.

To help bring to life these simple pleasures, the Trust has formed a group of Elite Rangers who will share their expert tips on enjoying outdoor adventures and their enthusiasm for encouraging children to play alfresco.

The five rangers, all Trust staff, come from across the UK and range in age from 29 to 49. They include a 6ft 3" tree climbing expert, who has scaled 50 metre-high trees, (a.k.a. Tree Man), Captain Skim who can skim a stone over 26 times and Midas the treasure hunter. The other rangers are Den-Boy, an outdoor hideaway-building champion, and a mini-beast expert, a.k.a. The Bug Catcher.

The fantastic five will be offering top tips on their chosen skill to the nation's children over the National Trust Free Weekend (21st and 22nd April) when the National Trust will open up over 200 of its houses and gardens for free over the weekend, as well as all the countryside spaces it cares for, which are always free access.

Kids can pick up a free '50 Things To Do Before You’re 11¾' scrapbook from participating properties and start ticking off their outdoor adventures to do list. Plus, the fun can continue at home by visiting nationaltrust.org.uk/50things where children can fill in their completed activities and earn points towards their very own explorer badge.

Tony Berry, Visitor Experience Director of the National Trust, commented: "Our Elite Rangers are a fantastic bunch, with bags of enthusiasm for the outdoors and what it can offer kids. We're hoping that the nation's children will embrace the 50 things and start having their very own outdoor adventures with their family, with our Free Weekend the perfect opportunity to get outside in the fresh air."

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Notes to Editors:
*Statistics from Natural England (2009) Childhood and Nature: a survey on changing relationships with nature across generations. http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/Images/Childhood%20and%20Nature%20Survey_tcm6-10515.pdf
And Play England: August 2011 (a third have never climbed a tree and one in ten can’t ride a bike)

The National Trust acts now to save children's relationship with the outdoors

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 10:21:24 GMT

A new National Trust report has found that evidence of a long-term and dramatic decline in children's relationship with the outdoors is 'overwhelming' and urgent action is needed to bridge this growing gap before it's too late.

In his Natural Childhood report* naturalist, author and TV producer Stephen Moss charts years of academic research and a steady stream of surveys on the subject, highlighting how a generation of children is finally losing touch with the natural world.

The report outlines a clear need to tackle the rise of 'Nature Deficit Disorder', a term coined by the US based writer Richard Louv, to describe a growing dislocation between children and nature**.

Report author Stephen Moss, said: "We all know the benefits being outdoors can bring, and as parents we want our children to spend more time outdoors than they do.

"But despite this overwhelming evidence and the different initiatives and schemes run by organisations across the UK, our kids are spending less and less time in the outdoors.

"The time to act is now, whilst we still have a generation of parents and grandparents who grew up outdoors and can pass on their experience and whilst there remains a determination to do something positive in this area."

A two-month inquiry, facilitated by the National Trust, will take evidence from leading experts and the public to look at how we can reconnect this and future generations of children with the natural world.

The National Trust is working alongside Arla, the NHS Sustainable Development Unit and film-makers Green Lions, to organise a summit this summer to bring together a range of experts to develop a roadmap for reconnecting children and nature.

Fiona Reynolds, Director-General of the National Trust, said: "Getting outdoors and closer to nature has all sorts of benefits for our children. It keeps them fit, they can learn about the world around them and, most of all, it's fun.

"That's why it's so worrying that so many children today don't have the opportunity to experience the outdoors and nature. Building a den, picking flowers, climbing trees - the outdoors is a treasure trove, rich in imagination. It brings huge benefits that we believe every child should have the opportunity to experience and there are huge costs when they don't."

During the last decade conservation groups, academics, social and health professionals and the media have charted the rise of so-called 'cotton-wool kids' and countless examples of what is going wrong.

Authority figures and layers of bureaucracy have combined in a climate of 'don’t do that' to create an environment where fewer children play in the outdoors. This has led to a situation where kids having fun in the outdoors are painted as showing signs of anti-social behaviour.

The research shows that capturing children before they enter the teenage years is crucial with the research clearly showing if kids get hooked before they reach twelve years old, they will develop a lifelong passion for the environment and outdoors activities***.

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Notes to editors:
* 'Natural Childhood' is available to download for free from www.nationaltrust.org.uk or www.outdoornation.org.uk. Copies can also be emailed on request by contacting outdoor.nation@nationaltrust.org.uk. The report was written by naturalist, writer and broadcaster Stephen Moss
** Richard Louv's book 'Last Child in the Wood' coined the term Nature Deficit Disorder.
*** Play England (2008), quoted in The Observer 3rd August 2008.

About The National Trust:
The National Trust looks after more than 250,000 hectares of countryside, 710 miles of coastline and hundreds of historic places across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. For more information and ideas for great value family days out go to: www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

National Trust appoints 18 Feet & Rising as lead creative agency

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 14:46:21 GMT

The National Trust is to work with agency 18 Feet & Rising as its lead creative partner, following a competitive pitch process.

The brief is to develop an overarching brand strategy that helps deliver the Trust's core charitable purpose - looking after special places for ever, for everyone - whilst broadening the charity's appeal.

The Trust has performed well through the economic downturn, seeing record visitor numbers of 19 million in 2011 and reaching four million members last autumn, but the charity knows the brand can extend its relevance and appeal to more people.

18 Feet & Rising will be at the forefront of evolving perceptions of the Trust, opening up conversations with new and existing audiences and facilitating experiences between people and the places that are special to them.

Clare Mullin, Director of Brand & Marketing at National Trust, said: "We are delighted to be working with 18 Feet & Rising as our lead creative agency.

"They clearly understand our strategic priorities and have shown that they can help make the Trust relevant today through their strategy and creative.

"They've really challenged us and we’re excited by the work we can do with them going forwards."

Jonathan Trimble, Managing Partner at 18 Feet & Rising, said: "It's fantastic to be working with such a special organisation. The Trust has a unique role in terms of the country’s relationships with special places.

"It gives us the chance to bring our creativity to bear in unique ways with unique people."

First steps for 18 Feet & Rising will be to develop the brand strategy, working across the Trust's 5,000 staff and the 62,000 people who assist with the Trust's volunteer projects to express the brand in an authentic and joined-up way. They'll also take on the challenge of developing the Trust's 2013 national campaign.

Throughout the pitch, the National Trust has been supported by pitch consultancy Agency Insight.

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The National Trust reports son of RamCam born live on LambCam

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 09:37:13 GMT

A ewe that was tupped in a video made as part of the National Trust's MyFarm* project has, nearly five months later, given birth on camera too.

The Portland ewe, unimaginatively named '3462' after her tag number, shot to prominence after starring in MyFarm's 'RamCam' video.

RamCam saw Peacland Paolo, a Portland ram, fitted with a horn-mounted webcam as he went out for the tupping season at Wimpole Home Farm, the home of MyFarm, last November.

In his first tup, Paolo took a special shine to experienced ewe number 3462, one of 30 ewes in his field for the tup. The video has been viewed more than 18,000 times on YouTube.

As the end of the 145-day gestation period drew nearer, the MyFarm team moved the ewe into a lambing pen fitted with another webcam.

On Sunday evening, viewers on the MyFarm website saw the as-yet unnamed 'Son of RamCam' born into the world.

MyFarm Project Manager, Andrew Cock-Starkey, said: "First RamCam and now LambCam have been great fun and we hope people have enjoyed watching them.

"Though it’s all done slightly tongue in cheek - and we've had lots of pun fun with titles like RamCam and EweTube - there is a serious message too.

"Carbon footprints, food miles and food provenance are becoming more and more important both to consumers and the industry.

"Most people have eaten lamb, still more will have heard of the lambing season at farms but I'd wager not many knew what the tupping season was.

"Through the MyFarm project we want to involve people in farming and where their food comes from.

"MyFarm members vote on key decisions that affect the future of the farm.

"If Paolo, ewe 3462 and their son help us teach people that British lamb born in the Spring is available to eat in Autumn, and not in the next few weeks as most people think, then they’ve done their job."

The lamb's birth was amongst the first at the home of MyFarm, Home Farm on the Wimpole Estate in Cambridgeshire. It signals the start of the farm’s lambing season that starts on Saturday 17 March and runs through to Sunday 5 April. Home Farm is open to the public and is expecting around 40,000 visitors during the five week period.

Andrew Cock-Starkey added: "Lambing is a very busy but hugely enjoyable time on the farm and the farm staff work really hard to share the goings on with the public.

"It's quite a magical thing to see a lamb that’s a few hours or even minutes old and lucky visitors may even see a birth for themselves.

"For those that don’t we suggest they keep an eye our MyFarm webcams. We've had pigs farrowing recently and even a rare Bagot goat having twin kids all live on camera."

For more information on MyFarm visit www.my-farm.org.uk.

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Notes to Editors:
* The MyFarm experiment launched on 4 May 2011. Based at the National Trust’s own working farm, Wimpole Home Farm in Cambridgeshire, Farm Manager Richard Morris sets regular decisions to subscribers who then debate and vote on topics to include crops, livestock and wider impacts.

About The National Trust:
The National Trust is one of the most important nature conservation organisations in Europe with over 1,000 sites covering 250,000 hectares, including coastal sites, countryside places, woodland and upland areas; many of which are rich in wildlife. All 17 species of UK bat have been recorded as roosting or breeding on National Trust land and 96 per cent of all resident UK butterflies can be found on National Trust property. The Trust offers many ideas for family days out, including a selection of Easter events at locations across Britain.

National Trust's Director-General to step down

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 12:34:41 GMT

The National Trust has announced that Fiona Reynolds has decided to leave the charity after more than 11 years as Director-General.

Fiona is to take up her duties as Master of Emmanuel College, University of Cambridge, in the autumn of 2013 - the first woman to be elected Master in the College's history.

She said: "As a graduate of Cambridge I am thrilled to be going back to head one of its finest colleges.

"I have loved every minute leading the National Trust and working with our passionate and dedicated staff, volunteers and supporters.

"I am incredibly proud of all that we have achieved in the last 11 years.

"There is no organisation like it and I will miss it terribly. But it is time to allow someone else an opportunity to make their mark."

Fiona has overseen a period of transformational change at the National Trust, reconnecting the organisation with its original founding purpose, and infusing it with warmth and liveliness.

Membership hit four million last year from 2.7 million in 2001, and visitor numbers to the Trust's 300 properties reached 19 million from 10 million a decade ago. Volunteer numbers have also doubled, with 62,000 people involved last year.

From her earliest days at the Trust Fiona pioneered an 'arms open' approach to conservation, bringing expert work out from behind closed doors to take place in front of visitors, now an integral part of the Trust’s programme to bring places to life.

Property acquisitions have included the vast Victorian Gothic Tyntesfield and its estate near Bristol, Vanbrugh’s Seaton Delaval Hall in Northumberland, the 'back-to-back' terraced houses in Birmingham, John Lennon's boyhood home in Liverpool and the quirky home of Kenyan-born poet Khadambi Asalache in Wandsworth.

These acquisitions have been part of a concerted focus on social and community relevance for the Trust, recently underlined by the long-term lease taken out on Tredegar House in South East Wales.

As a geographer and walker with a passionate interest in landscape, she has systematically added to the 617,000 acres of countryside under the Trust's care.

During this time she has championed the importance of access to the outdoors and nature for people's wellbeing and promoted local and seasonal food with a drive to create 1,000 new allotments on National Trust land.

Most recently, this included the acquisition of the 617-acre Llyndy Isaf estate near Snowdon after a public appeal raised £1 million in seven months from 20,000 donors.

She has overseen a restructure of the governance of the charity, from a 52-member Council to a 12-member Board of Trustees, as well as two major internal restructures which have strengthened and localised the organisation.

While maintaining the Trust's strict party-political neutrality, Fiona has championed its conservation principles, most recently leading the charge against proposed changes to the planning framework which, she warned, would bias planning towards excessive building in the countryside.

Fiona, 53, will continue in her post at the National Trust until her successor is in place. She plans to use the interval between leaving and moving to Cambridge in September 2013 to write a book about her years at the Trust.

-ENDS-

About The National Trust:
The National Trust is one of the most important nature conservation organisations in Europe with over 1,000 sites covering 250,000 hectares, including coastal sites, countryside places, woodland and upland areas; many of which are rich in wildlife. All 17 species of UK bat have been recorded as roosting or breeding on National Trust land and 96 per cent of all resident UK butterflies can be found on National Trust property. The Trust offers many ideas for fun days out and things to do, including countryside walks throughout locations across Britain.

National Trust working holiday bookings up 50%

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 16:47:59 GMT

The National Trust has revealed that bookings of its working holidays are up 50% on this time last year.

The activity programme, celebrating its 45th year, runs over 300 breaks offering the opportunity to get out in the fresh air and play a vital part in conserving the country's natural legacy.

The wide variety of activities include surfing while repairing footpaths in Devon, planting trees and photographing the wonders of Snowdonia or dry-stone walling alongside Hadrian’s Wall in Northumbria.

The Trust's Head of Holidays, Marianne Wanstall, said: "This increase in bookings is fantastic news. Our working holidays are not just an amazing opportunity to learn new skills but see behind the scenes of the National Trust, meet new people and enjoy unique experiences. The volunteering work ensures that our special places remain open, relevant and accessible."

As growing numbers of Britons choose to holiday at home amid the economic downturn, National Trust working holidays in the UK also provide great value for money, with seven night breaks available including accommodation, all activities and meals.

New additions in 2012 include a farming holiday which involves hands on experience of all aspects of farming with management of cattle, pigs and even emus. Families are also well catered for with some new holidays offering child friendly activities such as sand sculpture competitions, beach cleaning and orienteering.

Marianne Wanstall added: "We're really focused on providing unique experiences; our most popular choices are those with activities at their core, such as cycling, surfing, sailing, bush craft or photography. One of the real positives is the range of participants, from young to old, and we’re delighted that there’s been a major growth in our family holiday packages."

With 60,000 regular volunteers across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, working holidaymakers join a huge tradition of volunteering with the National Trust.

Rob Clarke, holiday owner in the Lake District, said: "Working holidaymakers play a really valued role, giving up their time and skills to help us look after this special place. It's also fantastic to be involved with all the camaraderie and enjoyment that comes from the people taking part."

More information on the scheme can be found at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/workingholidays.

- Ends -

About The National Trust:
With more than 250,000 hectares of countryside and 710 miles of coastline across England, Wales and Northern Ireland there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy days out with the National Trust. The charity is one of the most important countryside conservation organisations in Europe. It promotes environmentally friendly practises and cares for the diverse and rare wildlife that lives on its land. It also looks after for more than 300 houses and gardens, from workers cottages to stately homes, preserving not only buildings but the stories of the people who lived there. The National Trust also offers a range of holidays and days out, including camping holidays. These spaces inspire the Trust's 4 million members, 61,000 volunteers and 5 million other visitors every year.

The National Trust reports lovesick cows get new mate for Valentine's

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 09:19:48 GMT

The National Trust has revealed that an Irish Moiled bull is set to be in the 'moo-d' for love at Wimpole Home Farm after the romantic future of a rare breed cow herd was put to the vote.

The National Trust's online MyFarm community voted on which breed should get a mate for Valentine's Day.*

The farm team at the 1,450 acre farm in Cambridgeshire, home to 65 rare breed cows and four bulls, are on the hunt for a new bull, but can only afford one.

Setting a 'Moo Who?' challenge, The National Trust MyFarm community had six days to research and vote on which of the three (Gloucester, Irish Moiled or Shetland) rare breed cow herds living on the farm was the most deserving of a new mate.

After the 'battle of the cattle' the Irish Moiled herd took an 'udderly' overwhelming 51% of the vote. When a suitable beast is found it will mate with the 10 cows from the herd 'ready for the bull' to create pure breed offspring.

Cows from the other herds will be cross-bred with Juggernaut, a one tonne, Long Horn bull who already lives on the farm.

Farm Manager Richard Morris said: "Each breed has its own characteristics and is special for different reasons. All three herds are on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust's 'At Risk' register - meaning there are fewer than 750 breeding females in the UK.

"But, it's never as simple as just choosing the rarest, this had to be weighed up against bull prices, the number of cows in each herd, (more cows mean more calves); and the quality of the meat produced when the cows are ready for slaughter.

"This was truly one of those heart versus head votes and we'll now be buying a Irish Moiled bull. Hopefully he'll mate successfully with our 10 Irish Moiled cows."

Stockman Mark Field at Wimpole said: "Back in 2000 we only had three Irish Moiled cows on the farm. Since then we've been working hard to enlarge the herd, working with the Rare Breeds Survival Trust to extend the gene pool.

"Thanks to the MyFarm communities votes we can now continue that work. I'm looking forward to getting into the market to find a suitable Irish Moiled bull to introduce to our herd - and to MyFarmers."

The new Irish Moiled bull and the four other bulls will be expected to mate with all 65 breeding cows over the spring and summer at Wimpole Estate with calves expected in 2013.

To sign up and to get involved with everything related to farming, food and where it comes from, visit www.my-farm.org.uk

- ends -

Editor's notes:
* MyFarm is an on-line experiment launched by the Trust in 2011 which aims to connect people with farming, food and where their food comes from.

Based at the National Trust's own working farm, Wimpole Home Farm in Cambridgeshire, Farm Manager Richard Morris poses regular questions on major issues to subscribers to debate and vote upon each month. Subjects include crops, livestock and wider environmental impacts, such as sustainable food.

About The National Trust:
The National Trust is one of the most important nature conservation organisations in Europe with over 1,000 sites covering 250,000 hectares, including coastal sites, countryside places, woodland and upland areas; many of which are rich in wildlife. All 17 species of UK bat have been recorded as roosting or breeding on National Trust land and 96 per cent of all resident UK butterflies can be found on National Trust land. The charity offers a number of places to visit and things to do, including countryside walks throughout locations across Britain. Those interested in volunteering with the National Trust can find out more at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Warick University Research into possible Woodchester wild cat finds no cat DNA on deer

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 16:51:15 GMT

The National Trust asked the University of Warwick to test a roe deer carcass found near Woodchester Park, Gloucestershire in early January after examination of the wounds led to speculation that it may have been killed by a big cat.

Comprehensive DNA tests have found fox DNA on the Woodchester carcass and what is expected to be fox DNA on the second deer carcass found a few miles away.

Dr Robin Allaby, Associate Professor at the School of Life Sciences at the University of Warwick, said: "We did not detect cat DNA on either deer carcass. Other than deer, by far the strongest genetic signal we found on the Woodchester Park carcass was from a fox. That fox DNA was found on the ribs, legs and fur plucking sites from the Woodchester deer carcass.

"On the second deer carcass we found canid DNA. A more detailed analysis is underway to pin down the canid species but our expectation is that that will also be fox DNA."

Dr Robin Allaby took 45 samples in total, from the wounds of the deer carcasses with the aim of testing specifically for DNA from the saliva of any canid (for instance dog or fox) or felid (cat) species which had killed or scavenged from the deer.

He used those samples to carry out 450 PCRs (the polymerase chain reaction is a standard scientific technique to amplify the target DNA), and almost 600 sequence reactions. The team searched for two gene targets each of deer and canid, but over 30 different cat gene targets.

David Armstrong, Head Ranger for the National Trust in Gloucestershire said: "The story of the investigation of the dead deer has really sparked off local curiosity with a lot of people who visit Woodchester Park to explore. People love a mystery like this and although we haven't found a wild cat, many of our visitors clearly believe there might be something interesting living quietly hidden in Woodchester."

Rick Minter, author of a new book on big cats reported in Britain, said: "There has been speculation of breeding amongst feral big cats in the UK. We are no closer to indicating that with these results, but lessons have been learnt from Warwick University's valuable input to this exercise. The strong media interest suggests an appetite to look into this subject further, and recent community surveys in Gloucestershire have indicated a strong desire for big cat evidence to be researched carefully.

"We should not be complacent about possible big cats in the UK, but considering these animals living secretly in our landscape can fire people's imaginations and help us consider all of the wild nature around us. Our outdoors can still hold surprises maybe."

Big cats will do their utmost to avoid contact with people but anyone who does see a big cat in the wild is advised to stay composed and back away from the animal.

Any sightings or possible evidence on National Trust land can also be reported by email to nature@nationaltrust.org.uk.

-Ends-

About The National Trust:
The National Trust is one of the most important nature conservation organisations in Europe with over 1,000 sites covering 250,000 hectares, including coastal sites, countryside places, woodland and upland areas; many of which are rich in wildlife. All 17 species of UK bat have been recorded as roosting or breeding on National Trust land and 96 per cent of all resident UK butterflies can be found on National Trust land. The charity also offers a number of National Trust holidays, including countryside walks throughout locations across Britain. Those interested in volunteering with the National Trust can find out more at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

The National Trust boost for Box Hill wildlife also benefits Olympic spectators

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:42:52 GMT

Rare wildlife has a better chance to thrive thanks to a scrub clearance at the National Trust's Box Hill in Surrey.

The work also allows many more cycling fans to watch the Olympic Road Races in July, combining a sustainable Games with excellent sporting facilities.

The hill is home to many endangered species that only live on chalk grassland such as small blue butterflies and man orchids. These species are protected nationally and internationally which is why Box Hill is a Special Area of Conservation and a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

A detailed wildlife survey funded by The London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) proved the Trust could safely remove some areas of scrub, creating more grassland where these species can flourish.

The National Trust, LOCOG and the government's wildlife and landscape advisers, Natural England, have worked together to create a balance between protecting wildlife and promoting enjoyment of top level international sport.

It is hoped the work will make room for up to 15,000 spectators to watch the world’s best cyclists tackle one of the most exciting sections of the Olympic race route - Box Hill's Zig-Zag road - on July 28 and 29.

Andy Wright, the National Trust Countryside Manager for Box Hill said: "It's great news that so many people will be able to enjoy the races in this wonderful natural setting.

"Since traditional farming ceased in the 1930s, woodland has been encroaching onto the grassland at Box Hill and we've been battling to keep it back.

"The surveys conducted by LOCOG are the most thorough ever carried out on this site and they have really helped us understand the best way to manage the habitat for the long term.

"The scrub alongside the road has very few species living in it so after we removed it, it didn't matter if people walked in those areas.

"Gradually, over the years that land will turn back into chalk grassland which is a much richer habitat - supporting around 60 to 100 species of plants, animals and insects per square metre."

As well as being a valuable area for wildlife, the steep and winding Box Hill loop is considered to be one of the most challenging stages of the Olympic Cycling Road Race.

Jim Smyllie, Natural England's Executive Director for Delivery, said: "The cycling road races will be world class events in world class scenery and the restoration work at Box Hill will help ensure they leave a living legacy."

The scrub clearance work began on January 30th and the Zig-Zag road was closed for a week to allow trees to be felled. Strips of land on both sides of the road were trimmed but occasional bridges of overhanging trees were left to allow dormice and other woodland creatures to cross.

- ends -

About the National Trust:
With more than 250,000 hectares of countryside and 710 miles of coastline across England, Wales and Northern Ireland there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy countryside days out with the National Trust. The charity is one of the most important countryside conservation organisations in Europe. It promotes environmentally friendly practises and cares for the diverse and rare wildlife that lives on its land. It also looks after for more than 300 houses and gardens, from workers cottages to stately homes, preserving not only buildings but the stories of the people who lived there. These spaces inspire the Trust's 4 million members, a volunteering team of 61,000 people and 5 million other visitors every year.

Church, charity and business leaders call for community energy revolution

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 10:43:14 GMT

The National Trust, along with a coalition of civil society leaders from UK organisations with over twelve million members, has called for community energy to play a substantial role in meeting the country's climate change targets.

Leading figures from The Co-operative; the National Trust; The National Federation of Women's Institutes; the Church of England and Campaign to Protect Rural England will today meet Chris Huhne, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, to launch their joint 'vision for community energy', which supports dramatically scaling up the number of community owned renewable energy projects across the country, and to discuss how the Government can best assist.

The National Trust has been working on its low carbon villages (LCV) project which aims to tackle the disillusionment and helplessness that many people feel about climate change in two Trust owned villages, Coleshill in Oxfordshire, and Cambo on the Trust's estate at Wallington, Northumberland. Through a process of engagement over a three-year period, LCV aimed to develop positive and practical solutions that could set villagers on a journey to low-carbon living. The energy projects the charity has undertaken across all of its places as part of its commitment to generating half of the UK's energy from renewable energy sources by 2020 can be seen on the National Trust energy map, found on the charity's site.

Patrick Begg, Director of Rural Enterprise at The National Trust, commented: "Many other European countries are way ahead of the UK, as we found out when visiting German communities last year. Germany produces over 20 per cent of its electricity from renewable sources, with communities generating about a quarter of this. In the UK, less than 1 per cent is generated by our communities, a figure this coalition wants to dramatically increase by 2020. We are asking the Government to support us in this."

At the same time, local energy schemes will receive another boost today as The Co-operative launches its Community Energy Challenge, a competition which will result in six communities across the UK receiving support to set up their own energy projects. The Co-operative is setting aside £1 million in 2012 to support community energy. This will involve everything from mentoring for start-ups through to the underwriting of co-operative share offers in local co-operatives.

Paul Monaghan, Head of Social Goals at The Co-operative, said: "We want nothing less than a clean energy revolution, with communities controlling and benefiting from their own renewable energy. Talk of a new dash for gas shales, which could see up to 3,000 wells installed across the UK, highlights the choices we face - more and dirtier sources of fossil fuels or clean energy owned and controlled by communities."

In the coming months and years, the coalition, who were brought together by The Co-operative and its partners, sustainable development organisations Forum for the Future and Carbon Leapfrog, collectively plan to meet at regular intervals to make practical steps to drive the shared vision forwards and champion community energy among their members. Late last year coalition representatives visited Germany to see examples of other successful community schemes.

ENDS

About The National Trust:
The National Trust cares for over 300 of England, Wales and Northern Ireland's greatest historic houses and gardens, 1,000 km of coastline and vast swathes of our most beautiful countryside. People of all ages - individuals, schools and communities - get involved each year with our projects, events and working holidays and over 60,000 volunteers help to bring the properties alive for the Trust's 4 million members and many more million visitors. Those interested in volunteering in the UK can find out more at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

The National Trust bucks economic trends to have bumper December

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:37:13 GMT

The National Trust has reported a substantial increase in its visitor numbers, and retail and catering sales in December 2011 compared to the previous December, despite a backdrop of challenging economic times and lack of consumer confidence.

There were more than half-a-million (521,000) visitors to Trust properties in December 2011, an increase of 74 per cent on the previous year*.

Factors affecting the large jump in visitor numbers include the mild weather (December 2010 saw heavy snowfall hitting the number of getting out and about) and an increasing number of houses running Christmas themed activity, such as lighting schemes and decorating stately homes for Christmas.

Over forty Trust pay-for-entry properties were open during the weekends in December. Attingham in Shropshire saw its busiest ever weekend with its Frost Fair which ran on the first Saturday and Sunday of the month.

The Trust is on target to have its best ever year for visitor numbers to its pay-for-entry properties, exceeding 18 million visitors for the first time in its history**.

The retail business, which includes high street shops, shops at properties and online sales, saw an increase in sales of 24 per cent and the cafes and restaurants had a 71 per cent increase in sales in December 2011 compared to the same month in 2010.

In the year to date retail sales have increased by 8 per cent and catering has so far seen a 14 per cent increase in sales.

Fiona Reynolds, Director-General of the National Trust, said: "In these economically tough times the National Trust seems to have swum against the tide with these fantastic results.

"As the nation tightens its collective belt people have been looking for great value and places where they can get a real feel for Christmas.”

Simon Jenkins, Chairman of the National Trust, added: "This shows that arts and heritage charities not dependent on government grants appear to be experiencing a surge in trading income. The public is turning away from more expensive leisure venues, overnight stays and foreign trips. It is a rare good news story in the gloom."

- Ends -

Notes to editors:
* Visitors numbers are broken down into members and paying visitors. Visitor figures for the year to date (2011/12) compared to the previous year (2010/11) are up by more than 9 per cent.
** Overall visitor figures are based on the National Trust financial year which runs between the 1 March and the 28 or 29 February.

About The National Trust:
The National Trust is one of the most important nature conservation organisations in Europe with over 1,000 places to visit to visit in the UK covering 250,000 hectares, including coastal sites, woodland and upland areas, including many gardens to visit; many of which are rich in wildlife. The All 17 species of UK bat have been recorded as roosting or breeding on National Trust land and 96 per cent of all resident UK butterflies can be found on our land. Wicken Fen in Cambridgeshire is our most species rich site and 93 per cent of our land has been surveyed for its nature conservation importance. The charity also offers a number of National Trust holidays, including walks throughout locations across the British countryside. Find out more at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nature

The National Trust announces Powis Castle triumph in favourite walk vote

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 11:43:46 GMT

The National Trust has revealed that Powis Castle in Wales has been voted the favourite place to walk in an online poll run by the charity.

The castle's parkland was one of eight places championed by celebrities to represent the best walks that can be found across the nation.

Members of the public then voted online for their favourite as part of the National Trust's first ever Walking Festival, sponsored by PruHealth.

The walk round the grounds of Powis Castle was chosen by weather presenter Sian Lloyd. She said: "I'm absolutely delighted by this. I'm thrilled they've won - and deservedly so because Powis Castle is the best castle in the country."

Alison Dyer, the castle's Assistant Visitor Services Manager, said: "We are delighted to win the Walking Festival vote.

"It is a real tribute to the beauty of Powis Castle and the joy that many people receive from exploring our grand Italianate terraces, dancing statues and lavish herbaceous borders, framed by a beautiful red Welsh castle."

Powis won with 40 per cent of the overall vote. Croome Park in Worcestershire, championed by the singer Toyah Wilcox, was second. Newton Pool in Northumberland, championed by crime writer Val McDermid, was third.

Other places featured were Ham House in Richmond, chosen by comedian Omid Djalili, Mount Stewart in Northern Ireland (TV presenter Zoe Salmon), Wicken Fen in Cambridgeshire (archaeologist Francis Pryor), Windermere in the Lake District (polar explorer Paul Rose) and The Warren in South Devon (Adam Hart Davis).

The vote was organised as part of the Trust's Walking Festival which was held during the October half term. More than 62,000 people took part in walking-themed events at 376 National Trust properties across the UK.

Many more people took advantage of the mild autumn weather to go for self-guided walks on the Trust’s 250,000 hectares of land and 710 miles of coastline. The Walking Festival is now set to become an annual event.

Videos of all the celebrity walks can be viewed at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/walkingfestival.

There are also more than 700 recommended National Trust walking routes - including the celebrity walks and ideas for winter walks - available to download from www.nationaltrust.org.uk/walks.

Powis Castle is open on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day and every day from 1 March. Many National Trust buildings and all outdoor destinations are open throughout the winter. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk for full details.

-ends-

About the National Trust:
With more than 250,000 hectares (660,000 acres) of countryside and woodland and 710 miles of coastline across England, Wales and Northern Ireland there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors with the National Trust. The National Trust cares for 300 inspiring historic houses and gardens across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

From former workers' cottages to the most iconic stately homes, and from mines and mills to theatres and inns, the stories of people and their heritage are at the heart of everything it does. People of all ages, individuals, schools and communities get involved each year with its projects, events and working holidays and over 61,000 people volunteering help to bring the properties alive for the Trust's four million members. Find out more at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

About PruHealth
PruHealth was launched into the UK market in October 2004 as a joint venture between Discovery and UK insurer, Prudential, in response to a growing need for consumer-directed private medical insurance products.

PruHealth received several industry awards, including the Most Trusted PMI Provider at the 2010 Moneywise Awards, the Best PMI Provider at the 2009 Moneyfacts Awards, Best use of Marketing to Intermediaries (Brokers) at the 2010 Health Insurance awards and the award for the Best Individual PMI provider at the 2010 Health Insurance Awards and 2010 Cover Excellence awards.

PR Contact:
Lisa Gledhill
Press Officer
The National Trust
Heelis
Swindon
SN2 2NA
01793 818551
www.nationaltrust.org.uk

The National Trust's MyFarm experiment extends to include conventional farm methods

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 14:05:11 GMT

The National Trust has announced that a 250 acre conventional farm is set to become part of the MyFarm* experiment which aims to reconnect people with where their food comes from.

The farmland will form a key part of MyFarm project which enables members to make decisions on what happens on the farm.

The arable land at Cambridge Road Farm is next to the 1,200 acre Wimpole Home Farm which is at the centre of the MyFarm project in Cambridgeshire.

Owned by the Trust, Cambridge Road Farm has always been farmed conventionally by a tenant, who has now retired.

Its inclusion in the project means that participants will be able to get closer to both conventional and organic farming methods.

Richard Morris, Farm Manager at Wimpole, said: "This is an exciting development for the project as we can now explore the differences between organic and conventional farming methods rather than simply talking about them.

"With only four per cent** of farmland in the UK farmed organically we felt it was important to demonstrate the different benefits and challenges presented by each method.

"We'll be asking the MyFarm members to make decisions on the conventionally farmed land in addition to the 1,200 acres of organic farmland at Wimpole.

"We hope to make the differences and reasoning for both farming methods clearer and easier to digest. Whatever scenario the MyFarmers are presented with, we will be relying on them to make sure their decisions lead to both farms being profitable businesses."

Paul Hammett, Senior Policy Advisor at the National Farmers Union, said: "The MyFarm community will now have a fantastic opportunity to run the farms in parallel and learn about the advantages and disadvantages of both farming methods. It will be really interesting to see how their views and attitudes change, if at all, over the coming months."

For more information and to sign up to join the MyFarm experiment visit www.my-farm.org.uk.

- Ends –

Editor’s notes:
*The MyFarm experiment launched on 4 May 2011. Based at the National Trust's own working farm, Wimpole Home Farm in Cambridgeshire, Farm Manager Richard Morris sets regular decisions to subscribers who then debate and vote on topics to include crops, livestock and wider impacts.

Majority rules and Richard then carries out the majority decision on the farm.

The MyFarm website include video updates, webcams, live webchats, debates and comment and opinion from both well known farming experts and National Trust tenant farmers. Information can also be found on how to obtain a MyFarm subscription as a Christmas gift.

**Figure from www.defra.gov.uk/statistics/files/defra-stats-foodfarm-environ-organics-statsnotice-110811.pdf

About The National Trust:
The National Trust cares for 300 inspiring historic houses, gardens and winter gardens across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. From former workers' cottages to the most iconic stately homes, and from mines and mills to theatres and inns, the stories of people and their heritage are at the heart of everything it does. People of all ages, individuals, schools and communities get involved each year with its projects, events and working holidays and over 62,000 volunteers help to bring the properties alive for the Trust's 4 million members, who enjoy family days out at locations throughout the country. Find out more at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

The National Trust reveals The Angel Garden at Mottisfont

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 15:55:26 GMT

The National Trust, the organisation dedicated to preserving the cultural and environmental treasures of the UK, has announced that a host of angels have taken up residence in the historic gardens of Mottisfont in Hampshire, as part of a unique Christmas sculpture trail.

The Angel Garden has been inspired by Mottisfont's original human-size mosaic angel, which lives in a leafy corner on the south side of the house. Created by renowned artist Boris Anrep in 1947, the face of the angel is that of the woman he loved - Mottisfont's charismatic owner, Maud Russell.

Now nine more artists have created their own very different angel sculptures to join Anrep's and form a trail around Mottisfont's beautiful grounds. Five of the angel sculptures at Mottisfont are new commissions created especially for the project which opens on Friday 2 December.

Louise Govier, visitor experience and communities manager at Mottisfont said: "Working with the artists and seeing how they have interpreted the angel brief differently has been fascinating.

"Each has been influenced in different ways by the building, landscape and people at Mottisfont.

"Every angel is different in style, colour and size and will bring a special atmosphere to Mottisfont this Christmas. We hope visitors will feel enchanted and uplifted as they explore the gardens discovering these wonderful angels and that it puts them in the Christmas spirit."

Made of different materials, including wood, steel, thatching straw and acrylic, the eight artists have taken their inspiration from the surroundings, the history and the people who work at Mottisfont. One of the artworks to be seen for the first time is Ed Elliott's sculpture Greer (from the Celtic for 'watchful' or 'guardian') which is carved from London Plane timber sourced from the Mottisfont estate. It depicts a crouching human-size muscular bodied angel with a huge 14 ft. wingspan. The wing tips brush the earth as if he has just landed in the grounds behind the North Garden.

Ed Elliott, sculptor said: "This work questions the deeper psychological concept of the angel; the paradox between power and beauty, solidity and weightlessness, and the burden of existing as an immortal being."

Nigel Williams' steel Ferric Messenger angel rises from the waters of the famous River Test to greet visitors as they cross the bridge into the gardens.

The tubular body sports a halo, and wings that are studded with dozens of bolt heads - evidence of the artist's involvement in automotive design.

The finish, now a rich orange/brown sheen, is an important element of the sculpture, which has been partially rusted and will continue to change and develop during the exhibition.

In addition to the nine angels on the sculpture trail, there are also hundreds of tiny angels for children to find around The Angel Garden, and free creative activities designed for families.

-ENDS-

The National Trust reveals consumers need a leg up with farming knowledge

Sat, 19 Nov 2011 00:01:58 GMT

The National Trust has revealed the results from a new survey* which show that the vast majority (93 per cent) of people in Great Britain don't know the best time of year to enjoy eating British lamb.

Only seven per cent of respondents correctly identified autumn as the time for tucking into one of Britain's favourites, with half (49 per cent) choosing spring as the best time to serve lamb - the time of year when most lambs are born.

The research marks six months of the National Trust's mass on-line MyFarm experiment at its 1,200 acre organic farm at Wimpole in Cambridgeshire.

The innovative project aims to involve people in farming and where their food comes from by enabling them to make decisions on a real working farm.

An online straw poll of the MyFarm community revealed that 19 per cent knew the best time of year to enjoy lamb - more than double the outcome of the wider non-subscriber survey - suggesting the experiment is making useful progress.

Richard Morris, the National Trust's Farm Manager at Wimpole, said: "Eating lamb when it's in season ensures consumers can enjoy the meat at its best.

"Lambs born in the spring feed outside on grass throughout the summer resulting in really flavoursome and tender meat.

"The lamb we see on our supermarket shelves in the spring is either shipped in from abroad, or has been barn-reared out of season without the benefit of maturing and developing naturally on grass."

Other results highlighted consumer confusion over hogget (a mature lamb between one and two years old) with only 16 per cent of respondents aware that hogget is meat from sheep.

It also revealed only 40 per cent of Britons buy British lamb with 21 per cent buying its New Zealand relation and 16 per cent just indiscriminately selecting whatever is on the supermarket shelves.

By contrast, 51 per cent of MyFarm subscribers could identify hogget - three times as many as the wider survey - and 63 per cent brought British lamb.

Richard Morris added: "The National Trust is the country’s biggest farmer - more than 80 per cent of the 250,000 hectares of land under our care is farmed in some way and we see it as our role to re-connect people with farming and to encourage them to care more about where their food comes from.

"We can do this via experiments such as MyFarm which lift the lid on the realities of farming in the 21st Century."

- ends -

Notes to Editors:
* The survey was carried out by TNS Omnibus in November 2011. Total sample size was 1270 meat eating adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 3-10 November. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 16-64).

About The National Trust:
The National Trust is one of the most important nature conservation charities in Europe. The Trust is involved in the whole food chain, with 200,000 hectares of food producing land, over 150 restaurants and tearooms, and historic kitchen gardens, orchards and mills. The charity has community growing spaces – from allotments to kitchen gardens – at over 50 locations around the country and is increasing these annually. These spaces inspire the Trust’s 4 million members, 62,000 volunteers and visitors to think and learn about food. The National Trust has created 1,000 new allotment plots on its land in the next three years to give local communities the space to grow their own fruit and vegetables. Find out more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/food.

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