An exciting festival of events across south London will enable people to explore some of the most spectacular and important countryside of the region. ‘London ChalkFest 2008’, organised by the London Biodiversity Partnership’s Chalk Grassland Working Group, is designed to raise awareness of the rolling, chalk grassland landscapes of London. Chalk grasslands have some of the rarest and prettiest plants in London, and are home to many butterflies, reptiles and birds. Lying on rolling chalk valleys, they also have the added bonus of providing some of the most amazing open scenery.
“Chalk grasslands really have the ‘wow’ factor! We are aware that many Londoners may not have experienced these very special places, so we’re making it easy for them by offering over twenty-five, free events led by our friendly experts. Guided walks, illustrated talks, displays, open days and work days have been organised. There’s something for everyone!” said Ewa Prokop, Bromley Countryside Projects Officer and Chairperson of the working group.
The events, running from May to September 2008, are taking place within the Boroughs of Bromley, Croydon and Sutton and are easily accessible by public transport. On the ‘Plateau to Valley Walk’ there will be the opportunity to see how vegetation changes with geology across two of the chalk valleys in Bromley. At ‘Family Fun at Happy Valley’ near Croydon, visitors have a chance to meet the sheep that graze the chalk grassland and join in family activities. The ‘Wildlife Survey’ event at Carshalton Road Pastures, Sutton, offers a chance for people to join in a wildflower survey of the area with volunteers that help look after the site.
A ‘London ChalkFest 2008’ leaflet has been produced which details all the events taking place. A suggested list of places to visit is also included in the leaflet for those unable to make the events, but keen to visit them in their own time. Leaflets are available at libraries and other venues across London. All details can be found at the London Biodiversity Partnership website (www.lbp.org.uk) from 14 April 2008.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- The London Chalk Grassland Working Group, chaired by the London Borough of Bromley, works as part of the London Biodiversity Partnership to conserve, enhance, extend and promote the important chalk grasslands of Greater London. Chalk grassland is a rare habitat in the United Kingdom due to the restricted areas of chalk and limestone geology and the variability in implementation of appropriate, sympathetic management in historic and present times. The festival seeks to encourage everyone to enjoy and understand the treasures of this habitat and the management needed to sustain it. Key partner organisations involved are: London Boroughs of Bromley, Croydon and Sutton; City of London; Natural England; Downlands Countryside Management Project; London Wildlife Trust; London Biodiversity Partnership.
- Established in 1996 the London Biodiversity Partnership is a group of over 45 public, private and voluntary organisations from inside and outside nature conservation. The Partnership provides opportunities for people and organisations across London to get involved with biodiversity. By working together, pooling resources, experience and know-how, the partners have a greater impact than is possible working individually. Partners work toward a shared goal; to protect the capital’s habitats and species for the benefit and enjoyment of current and future generations. For further information about the work of the London Biodiversity Partnership and the Chalk Grassland Habitat Action Plan visit the London Biodiversity Partnership website (www.lbp.org.uk).
For media enquiries, please contact Ewa Prokop, Countryside Projects Officer on 01689 862 815 or email ewa.prokop@bromley.gov.uk