Long Mynd marks 50 years in National Trust hands

A day of activities will be held to celebrate the Long Mynd's landmark anniversary.

It is 50 years since the national body acquired a large part of the Long Mynd by public subscription for £18,000 and the hill range is more popular then ever with both tourists and wildlife lovers.

But it wasn't always that way. Many people had written off the hills when they were taken on by the trust in 1965. They said wildlife would never recover after over-grazing.

Peter Carty, National Trust countryside, gardens and parkland manager, said: "The heather-covered plateau has returned. There is a more diverse range of vegetation, while wet flushes and boggy areas are thriving and species of wildlife are beginning to return and establish themselves.

"However, there are still species that are struggling, curlew in particular – once a common sight and sound on Long Mynd. We now only have two breeding pairs.There is still so much to do to protect this fragile environment."

The Long Mynd sits within the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in south Shropshire and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest for geology and biology.

The day to celebrate the successes so far – and look to the future – will be held on June 28 at the National Trust's main hub in Carding Mill Valley, near Church Stretton. The day will be an opportunity to meet the team, many of whom have worked on the Long Mynd for years.

Emily Knight, visitor experience and conservation manager, said: "Our celebration day is great way to find out more about the work that has taken place over the past 50 years, and to get out and enjoy the site.

"On the day there will be a mix of walks and talks looking at the conservation work and the wildlife found on Long Mynd.

"There will also be activities for children, including pond dipping, bird watching and even bracken bashing."

The celebration day will run from 11am to 4pm. For more information call (01694) 725000 or email cardingmill@nationaltrust.org.uk