Kids, curlews and conservation

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Gamekeepers from across northern England have helped get over 1,400 children into the uplands this week as part of the ‘Let’s Learn Moor’ project, now in its third year.

The week-long outdoor experience for children, took place across Yorkshire, Lancashire, the Peak District and the northern Pennines between 1-5 July.

Ian Sleightholm, who represents the Moorland Branch at the NGO, said: “The children have seen it all this week. From learning about fighting moorland fires, how to pluck a pigeon and the squelchy world of peat. For many it will have been a real eye-opener.

“Our gamekeepers have been showing them the techniques used to protect the eggs of game birds and chicks and endangered red listed birds like the beautiful curlew. The huge number of organisations involved shows the real commitment to conserving this area. It has been heartening to see the interest shown by local schools to encourage their children to understand this unique environment.”

The ‘Let’s Learn Moor’ project is organised by BASC North who fund the project with the Moorland Association and the Moorland Communities Trust.

John Clarke, the NGO’s development officer for the north of England, who helped organise the event, said: “Seeing the children fascinated by the work that goes on across upland areas has made the week hugely worthwhile. We’re grateful to all the gamekeepers, landowners and community organisations including the Moorland Groups, who have helped to make the event such a success.”

ENDS