Forthcoming training

The 2012 training and events booklet is now available. You can collect your own copy from the following outlets:

Or please email habitatsandhillforts@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk with your postal address to request a copy.

A note from the Chairman - Dr Andrew Deadman

This is the fourth and final year of the Habitats and Hillforts Project and in fact, the events and courses offered this year are something of a bonus. The Heritage Lottery Fund have recognised the success of the Project to date by funding a one year’s extension. Although the number of events is somewhat reduced this year there is still a rich variety on offer from hedgerow and pond restoration to bee-keeping; children’s art and a photographic competition and, of course, the usual opportunity to have that ‘Time Team’ moment by getting involved in geophysical survey on one of our six Iron Age hillforts.

So, don’t miss this last chance, we’ll look forward to seeing you!

Dr Andrew Deadman, Chair – Habitats and Hillforts LPS Steering Group

Other information

A small charge has been introduced this year to cover some of the cost of the courses. This contribution will go towards any refreshments that are provided by the trainers.

‘Habitats and Hillforts is a Partnership comprising Cheshire West & Chester, English Heritage, National Trust, Forestry Commission, Cheshire Community Action, Woodland Trust and the Cheshire Landscape Trust and is generously supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund. The Scheme is also supported by the Mersey Forest’

Training Providers

BTCV

The British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV) in Cheshire run a programme of local midweek volunteering opportunities, weekend conservation working holidays, employee volunteering and youth and community projects. We also run a food growing project at Trafford Mill Kitchen Garden. The BTCV are delivering a series of practical conservation skills and training courses as part of the habitats and hillforts programme, along with other training events for BTCV’s overall Northern Programme. As an official training provider for the Landscape Partnership Scheme, courses will be run with the Sandstone Ridge area where possible.

FWAG

Unfortunately the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) has recently gone into administration. We are hopeful the courses led by FWAG will go ahead as normal. More information will be posted as it is made available.

(FWAG was a farmer led, national charity which provided conservation advice to farmers and land managers in the UK. Cheshire FWAG had excellent relations with farmers and landowners and worked with many of the farmers within the Habitat and Hillforts Project area. Advice was offered on a wide range of habitats, species and issues from Ponds, Barn Owls, Environmental Stewardship and NVZ’s, as well as being a key part of delivering training through Habitats and Hillforts)

HARTHILL ARTS TRUST

Harthill Arts Trust is based in the beautiful rural hamlet of Harthill, in the heart of the Cheshire countryside. The Trust is centred on the home and studio of Stephen Broadbent, an internationally renowned sculptor, and is nestled below Cheshire’s stunning Sandstone Ridge.

Harthill Trust aims to provide the setting, the facilities and the support for people of all backgrounds, abilities and experience to grow and develop creatively. This is achieved currently through the provision of a range of day courses and conferences, delivered by partner artists, designers and training providers, offering life-enhancing and stimulating experiences. Harthill Trust seeks funding to enable us to offer courses either at no cost to the individual or substantially subsidised, included through the Habitats and Hillforts Landscape Partnership.