Press Release: CPRE Walk With Butterflies

CPRE's walk with butterflies

Photo: Chalkhill Blue Butterfly. Credit: John May.

As part of its 'Countryside Walks and Talks' programme for 2007, CPRE Hampshire has organised a butterfly visit to Magdalen Hill Down, a chalk-down reserve near Winchester on Saturday 11th August. Guided by Colin Matthews, a butterfly conservationist, the tour will look at the work done to conserve this area and the abundance of species found within it.

The tour will look at three different areas of the reserve, where excellent sightings of a variety of species can be seen. Handouts will be provided explaining Butterfly Conservation's objectives in managing the reserve. Providing the weather is good, members have the option of bringing a packed lunch to eat on the Down when the walk ends at 1pm. The tour starts at 10.30am, meeting at the small car park opposite the Magdalen Hill Cemetery on the B3404, Alresford Road.

Please note that parts of the down are steep and are therefore unsuitable for members who are unable to walk on uneven ground. However, there is the option for people to walk on their own along a path that was constructed for wheelchair users through a section of the reserve called Magdalen Hill Down North, which is the newest part of the reserve having been sown with wild flowers in 2004. It is rapidly being colonised by butterflies and other wildlife and commands magnificent views.

The tour will cost £4 for members and £6 for non-members. Directions will be supplied upon request.

For all enquiries please contact Becky French: info@cprehampshire.org.uk or alternatively telephone 01962 843655.

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CPRE/H/106

Notes to editors

CPRE Hampshire strives to promote the beauty, tranquility and diversity of the countryside of Hampshire by the sustainable use of land and other resources in town and country, and encouraging the biodiversity and well-being of rural communities.

For information on CPRE, please contact:
Becky French or Pam Mason, CPRE Hampshire
Tel: 01962 843655
Email:admin@cprehampshire.org.uk

For all media enquiries, please contact:
Keren Burney, media & communications officer, CPRE Hampshire
Tel: 01730 894123 Mobile: 07876 780065
Email: kburney000@aol.com