For a thriving countryside that benefits everyone

Even in January, south west England is a great place to seek out dippers, a short-tailed, plump bird - and a master hunter around water.

Look out for dippers flitting about around lowland rivers, where they feed on insect larvae and freshwater shrimp.

Happy #WinniethePooh Day!

A. A. Milne's world is not just for children. It tells us about connecting with nature, mental health and discovering the beauty of green spaces.

We see lots of parallels with our work in protecting and promoting a countryside for all.
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The cold and dark of #winter, along with post-Xmas blues is why today is known as #BlueMonday.

To comfort yourself during these difficult days, check out this guide to #hygge, a term which embodies all things cosy and content.
https://www.cpre.org.uk/discover/how-to-embrace-the-season-and-yourself/

pic by Loretta O'Grady

We may not have any snow but how would a lottery win make your day? Someone just won our January draw - it could be you next month. AND - you would be supporting our work for the #Somerset #countryside. What's not to love?

Buy your tickets at https://tinyurl.com/v4unsjew

Thank you to @GetOutsideSom for the mention of our #2minutelitterpick #volunteering roles in your January newsletter. Doing a regular clean up of your local area is good for your health, good for your mind - and good for our planet🌍🚮 Find out more:
https://www.cpresomerset.org.uk/news/join-our-2minute-litterpick-project/

With a target of one billion guests by 2028, #AirBnB is a rapidly growing model sweeping the globe.

But, as more landlords switch to short-term lets, what are the consequences for housing and communities?

Our report below: https://www.cpre.org.uk/news/new-research-a-huge-rise-in-holiday-lets-is-strangling-rural-communities/

In Sept 2021, author Elena Mannion released her wonderful book 'The Happy Hedgerow', endorsed by @CPRE

This beautifully illustrated story reminds us of the vital importance of #hedgerows 🍂 🌍

Q&A with the author:
https://www.cpre.org.uk/stories/elena-mannion-on-the-happy-hedgerow/

#Winter walks can be beautiful, whether in freezing mist or low, bright sunshine. But, it pays to be prepared.

Check out CPRE's guide on winter walks, how you can stay comfortable and get the most of out of your stroll:

https://www.cpre.org.uk/discover/tips-for-a-winter-walk/

Love the countryside? 💚

Make it your new year's resolution to nurture it: for everybody’s sake.

Find out how you can be part of something greater by joining us
https://tinyurl.com/5exb8rer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGrbJN6jJXg

#ForTheFutureGood #somerset #countryside

Happy #NationalBirdDay!

Our feathered friends are a great help in our green spaces. They're natural pest controllers, and boost plant populations!

This #January, look out for tiny wrens, musical robins and chattering sparrows. You may even hear the call of a mistle thrush.

Packing your festive decorations away for another year?

If you had a real Christmas tree, why not create a log pile for wildlife?
Or take it to a @somersetwaste recycling site use it for compost or mulch. Some charities will collect -more info at https://www.somersetwaste.gov.uk/festive/

Happy 2022! You could help the planet this year AND get fresh air & exercise by becoming a #2minutelitterpick volunteer. We provide all the kit, you do a clean up when it suits you
https://tinyurl.com/ybcvm5t6

pic taken by our volunteer Henk Beentje
#litter #somerset #volunteer

Wishing everyone a #HappyNewYear! 🥂

Our resolution is to keep working to protect and celebrate the countryside, and making sure it's a #CountrysideForAll.

If you're thinking of ways to help in 2022, why not consider joining our movement?

https://tinyurl.com/5exb8rer

During #December, with little happening above ground, our under-appreciated natural wonders really get to shine - such as #lichens!

These beautiful types of flora have stunning designs and patterns. Look out for these bushy, unique structures on trees and woody plants.

We think a relaxing stroll on #BoxingDay is a great way to get some fresh air and peace following a month that keeps many of us very busy!

Why not find a green space near you and explore?
There are some great walks ideas on @GetOutsideSom so do have a look and get inspired.🚶🏽‍♂️

We'd like to wish our supporters, volunteers and colleagues a very #MerryChristmas 🎄

We really appreciate your support and couldn't do what we do without you.

Here's to another year of #countryside campaigning - for people and planet!

Happy days!
You could feel this good if you win our monthly lottery. Congratulations to our latest winner.

Buy your tickets here https://tinyurl.com/v4unsjew

photo: Sunset Magic by Paul Steven

#glastonbury #lottery #charity

Happy #WinterSolstice!

The solstice marks the point where daylight starts to increase, and starts our steady journey towards spring.

Remember, much of the natural world is resting during winter, so be sure to try and grasp some moments of peace this #December!

pic: Elysse Ward

It's #InternationalHumanSolidarityDay - promoting human co-operation in tackling global issues.

The #countryside is part of a solution to a variety of problems, from food poverty, to #mentalhealth, to #climatechange.

We need to work together to protect and celebrate it