Region's finest wildlife and geological sites judged to be doing far better

As much as 95 per cent of England's finest wildlife and geological sites, covering more than one million hectares of countryside, are now classed as being in favourable state or recovering condition, the latter meaning that measures are in place to rectify any problems.

In 2003 only 57 per cent of sites were given such a classification.

Known as Sites of Special Scientific Interest, these areas are dedicated to protecting wildlife, helping rural businesses and providing recreation space, flood protection and food production.

An example of the improvement was effectively shown in the North York Moors area, where 99 per cent was said to be favourable or recovering, as compared with 36 per cent in 2005.

Defra secretary Caroline Spelman said: "These sites really deserve the title of special. They include spectacular and beautiful habitats from flower-rich meadows to remote upland peat bogs and give protection to wildlife that might not otherwise survive.

"This fantastic achievement is testimony to the hard work of everyone involved. People really do care about and value our natural environment and together we can safeguard our remaining natural heritage for future generations."

The success has been attributed to grants and support networks provided by Defra, Natural England, the Environment Agency and the Forestry Commission as well as efforts by landowners and volunteers.

In 2009 a total of 3m of funding was given to help to protect and enhance wildlife, heather and footpaths on Ilkley Moor and the North York Moors, covering an area more than 5,500 hectares.

Helen Phillips, chief executive of Natural England, said the continuing work would mean areas such as the Yorkshire Dales would now face a more secure future.

"The turnaround in the fortunes of England's SSSIs is one of the great conservation success stories of recent decades and owes much to the tireless efforts of an army of conservationists, landowners and volunteers," she said.