Friends of Skipwith Common

Skipwith Common is one of the last remaining lowland heaths in the north of England, famous for its wildlife. A project, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, to restore Skipwith Common and to increase the appreciation and involvement of local communities began in 2003. A Friends of Skipwith Common group now has more than 150 members.

The group has transformed the Common from a site damaged by illegal off-road motorbiking and fly tipping to a wildlife rich heath. Twice-monthly practical work parties compliment the on going site management. Anti-social and damaging behaviour has been dramatically reduced.

Evening meetings in the local pub and guided walks provide more social elements to the groups activities.

Quotes
Brian Elsey, co-ordinator of the Friends of Skipwith Common: 'Both my wife and I have benefited greatly from volunteering on Skipwith Common. We have increased our knowledge of wildlife, landscape history and archaeology, have made many new friends and enjoyed helping to improve Skipwith Common for everybody'.

Related topics

 * Community & voluntary action

Related Wikipedia content

 * River Derwent, Yorkshire
 * List of Sites of Special Scientific Interest in North Yorkshire