Campaigns Update

Get together with family and friends for our annual Star Count which takes place between 26 February and 6 March.

With your help, we’ll be able to identify where light pollution is a problem and where the darkest skies across the country are.

We’ll use this evidence to advocate for better-controlled lighting and offer advice about what we can all do to reduce local light pollution.

The best thing is that it’s so easy to take part – you can do your Star Count from your garden, balcony, doorstep or even bedroom window!

It's also a great way to switch off from the distractions of daily life and give your mental health a boost by reconnecting with nature.

The countryside can feel still and quiet during winter, as nature hibernates. But there’s still plenty that we can do to support and nurture our local green spaces during the colder months.

It’s true, the winter seasons don’t have the same hustle of industry as harvest time or the warm green glow of spring or summer. But that doesn’t mean that the nature and wildlife of the countryside aren’t still working quietly away or teeming with life.

Show the countryside some love through all the rain and frost with our eight top tips to care for the countryside in winter.

As the air turns cooler, our lifestyles change too – we spend more time indoors and might notice we feel more sluggish or tired.

But nature and the great outdoors can help – both in getting out in the countryside whatever the season – and learning from the wildlife that survive the cold and dark.

Charlie Jordin has put together some tips on how to learn from nature, embrace the winter and take care of your body and mind.

'I am looking forward to seeing the new growth and improvement to the hedgerow health in spring.'

Ellie Banks is a volunteer for the Hedgerow Heroes project run by CPRE Hampshire. She tells us what she’s been doing to monitor and restore the health of hedgerows in South West Hampshire.

Read on to find out more about CPRE Hampshire's Hedgerow Hero project and how you can make a difference by volunteering for your local CPRE.

Make it your New Year’s resolution to nurture the countryside: for everyone’s sake. Becoming a member is your way to connect to the countryside and promote progress and protection for our rural areas.

We work across a huge range of areas including climate change, public transport and affordable housing. We put your money to good use, collaborating with communities and holding government to account for positive change and a sustainable countryside.

You’ll receive some great perks, too, such as our popular magazine Countryside Voices, discounted entry at over 100 attractions across the country and 10% off at Cotswold Outdoor.

Best wishes,

Cat

Cat Rowland

Digital Engagement Officer