Charities forge link to protect moors' wildlife

TWO national charities today announced they were joining forces for the first time in their histories to manage a tract of the Peak District National Park on the edge of Sheffield.

The RSPB and the National Trust will jointly manage the Eastern Moors for the next 15 years under an agreement drawn up with the Peak District National Park Authority.

According to the RSPB and the National Trust, which have a combined membership of 4.6 million people, the Eastern Moors contain internationally important habitats like blanket bog, which require protection.

The site is currently visited by a quarter of a million people from around the world each year and the two charities said they could improve access for visitors while improving conditions for wildlife.

Fiona Reynolds, National Trust director general said: "The Eastern Moors is an area of extraordinary natural beauty and an incredibly important habitat for wildlife and an internationally important site for its archaeology.

"I am delighted that the National Trust and the RSPB are working together to provide some opportunities for people to enjoy this area of countryside and get closer to nature."

Mike Clarke, RSPB chief executive, added: "People are very proud of the Eastern Moors and rightly so. It's a stunning site which offers a great day out for all kinds of visitors and is home to incredible wildlife.

"The partnership will be working hard to enhance the current experience that visitors have and provide new ways to enjoy the site. At the same time, we will develop a land management model which will be an example of how uplands can be managed in the future for people and wildlife."