Farmers asked for support to protect partridges

8:32am Monday 3rd November 2008

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A GROUP set up to help a threatened species of farmland bird is preparing to meet in the region.

Partridge enthusiasts are invited to a meeting of the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust, at Sedgefield Racecourse, in County Durham, at 6.30pm, on Tuesday, November 18.

The Durham and Northern Dales Grey Partridge Group was launched by the trust two years ago to boost the population of the bird.

The group plays a crucial role in the recovery of grey partridges in the region.

Grey partridges have suffered an 87 per cent decline in the past 40 years and it is hoped that the trust’s national recovery campaign, which relies on the support of local farmers and landowners, will help to reverse this decline.

A trust spokeswoman said: “The group has received huge support from farmers, landowners and gamekeepers who are keen to manage their land for the benefit of this iconic bird.

“Grey partridges, like many other farmland birds, have suffered decades of catastrophic decline and I look forward to welcoming new and existing members to our winter group meeting.

“This marks a positive step forward for partridge recovery in the region.”

To encourage more farmers and landowners to become involved in grey partridge conservation, and importantly, to count the partridges on their land, the trust awards an annual trophy to the farm or estate that has contributed most to partridge conservation in the region.

Tickets for the meeting cost £13, including a light supper.

For information, call Lynda Ferguson, on 01425- 651013, or email lferguson@gct.org.uk