Press Release

Press Release: Monday 07 June 2010

Share your memories of Lincolnshire’s coastal marshes

Opportunity to contribute to the Heritage and Landscape study for the Lincolnshire Coastal Marshes Project

The Lincolnshire Coastal Grazing Marshes Project focuses on a unique landscape: the flat belt of land traditionally associated with pastoral farming, which fringes the coast from the Humber to The Wash. It is steeped in history and has a rich cultural and wildlife heritage but is fast disappearing.  As part of the project, Heritage Lincolnshire is carrying out a Heritage and Landscape study. As well as an assessment of the historic places and archaeological sites within target areas, the study includes the cultural heritage of the Grazing Marshes – this is where you can help.   We would like to hear about your memories of how life used to be in the Marshes, how the countryside looked and how it has changed. People who live, work or visit the area can contribute and help to promote and conserve this special historic landscape. Share your stories and views on the past or present heritage and landscape of the Marshes by completing the questionnaire online at: www.surveygizmo.com/s/296869/lincolnshire-grazing-marshes-survey or by contacting Denise Drury at Heritage Lincolnshire, The Old School, Cameron Street, Heckington, Sleaford, NG34 9RW. Tel: 01529 461499 or email info@lincsheritage.org   The closing date for questionnaires is Monday 21 June 2010 Any information provided will be used solely for the purposes of the Lincolnshire Coastal Grazing Marshes Project. All personal data is confidential and protected. To contribute further to the Lincolnshire Coastal Grazing Marshes project during our 2010 development phase you can find background information on the project, plus more opportunities to get involved at www.lincsmarshes.org.uk The Lincolnshire Coastal Grazing Marshes project needs your support to secure funding and help us serve your community. We will be visiting community events over the forthcoming weeks which will be advertised on our website and in the local press.

Notes to Editors

1. The Lincolnshire Coastal Grazing Marshes are steeped in history, with a rich cultural and wildlife heritage.  Traditionally associated with pastoral farming, they are also linked to the sea and the changing coastline.  The land is scattered with historic landscape features and archaeological remains.  However, very little remains of once extensive areas of traditionally managed grazing marshes and dykes and what is left is under serious threat.  Action is required now if the grazing marshes are to be conserved and enjoyed by generations to come.  The Lincolnshire Coastal Grazing Marshes Project aims to protect, maintain and enhance the key features of the area and secure its future. The project is supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation. www.lincsmarshes.org.uk 
   
   
2. Heritage Lincolnshire aims to assist in the conservation and enhancement of the historic environment of the county. The Trust endeavours to involve the local community and visitors by improving access to all aspects of this heritage, by offering opportunities to learn about the past and by organising heritage projects and events to celebrate the diverse heritage of the county. www.lincsheritage.org
   
   
3. For over 60 years, the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust has been safeguarding wildlife and wild places throughout the historic county of Lincolnshire – from the Humber to the Wash. As Lincolnshire’s leading nature conservation charity, with over 25,000 members and around 100 nature reserves, the Wildlife Trust is now thinking on a landscape scale where our nature reserves are an integral part of the wider functioning landscape and not isolated oases; where a Living Landscape is created for wildlife and people. The Lincolnshire Coastal Grazing Marshes Project is just one of the Living Landscape schemes in the county. www.lincstrust.org.uk
   
   
4. The Wildlife Trusts. There are 47 Wildlife Trusts across the whole of the UK, the Isle of Man and Alderney. We are working for an environment rich in wildlife for everyone.  With nearly 800,000 members, we are the largest UK voluntary organisation dedicated to conserving the full range of the UK’s habitats and species, whether they be in the countryside, in cities or at sea. 135,000 of our members belong to our junior branch, Wildlife Watch.  We manage 2,256 nature reserves covering more than 90,000 hectares; we stand up for wildlife; we inspire people about the natural world and we foster sustainable living. Visit www.wildlifetrusts.org

For more information please contact

Joe Blissett, Lincolnshire Coastal Grazing Marshes Project Officer
Tel: 01522 552353
Email: joe.blissett@lincolnshire.gov.uk
Website: www.lincsmarshes.org.uk

Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust
Banovallum House
Manor House Street
Horncastle
Lincolnshire LN9 5HF

Website: www.lincstrust.org.uk