The New Forest National Park Authority (NPA) was pleased to welcome Stephen Morgan MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defra, to its stand at this year’s New Forest and Hampshire County Show, where he learned more about the Authority’s work to protect the unique landscape, connect people with nature and support the health of communities and the local economy.
During his visit, Minister Morgan met staff, members and volunteers and discussed a range of projects that support nature recovery, education and community engagement across the New Forest.
The visit provided an opportunity to show how the National Park Authority works with local communities, land managers, partner organisations and volunteers to care for the National Park as a ‘Team New Forest’ and ensure it can be enjoyed by future generations.
New Forest National Park Authority CEO Alison Barnes said: ‘We were delighted to welcome Stephen Morgan MP to our stand at the New Forest Show. It was a valuable opportunity to highlight the importance of the New Forest National Park, the challenges ahead, share some of our current projects and discuss how we inspire people of all ages to understand and care for this special place.’
During the visit, the Minister heard about the Authority’s work with young people, helping them to experience the National Park and learn more about its internationally important habitats, wildlife and cultural heritage. He met ecologist Abi Tebb, 21, from Sway, who is a member of the New Forest National Park Youth Board. He spoke with staff and volunteers of NPA inclusive cycling charity PEDALL, tried a specially adapted bike and heard how each year they help over 7,000 people with additional needs to access the Forest. He then went on to present the National Park Awards.
Farming Minister Stephen Morgan said: ‘It was a pleasure to visit this year’s New Forest and Hampshire County Show and hear more about the New Forest National Park Authority’s important work.
‘The work being done across this unique landscape shows how sustainable farming and nature recovery can go hand in hand. That’s why this government is investing a record £11.8 billion in English farming and has published a 25-year Farming Roadmap, giving farmers the long-term certainty to invest with confidence.
‘When farmers, nature and local communities thrive together, the whole New Forest benefits. That’s how we’ll protect this special place for generations to come.’
The New Forest and Hampshire County Show at Brockenhurst attracts thousands of visitors each year and provides an important opportunity for people to find out more about the organisations and communities that help make the New Forest such a special place.
Visitors to the NPA’s stand were invited to help shape the National Park of the future and to learn about rare wildlife, conservation initiatives and ways to explore the National Park responsibly while helping to protect its unique environment.
Photo Caption: Farming Minister Stephen Morgan MP at the New Forest National Park Authority stand at the New Forest Show with the Authority’s CEO Alison Barnes and Abi Tebb of the New Forest Youth Board.