Robin Mortimer has recently been appointed Director for Wildlife, Landscape and Rural at Defra and has visited Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve – England’s newest NNR. 

Robin was interested to find out about National Nature Reserves and how they link in with Natural England’s agri-environment schemes.  He was delighted to talk to Trevor Britain, a tenant farmer, from the Escrick Park Estate and owners of Skipwith Common.  Trevor farms up to the edge of the common, and explained to Robin that his Countryside Stewardship Scheme benefitted both his farm, the common and wildlife.  Trevor says ‘I am pleased and proud to have several pairs of nesting barn owls on my farm, they are such beautiful creature and they keep the farm mouse population down”. 

Tango Fawcett, Conservation Consultant from Escrick Park Estate, explained that although Skipwith Common is managed by the Estate, they have been supported very ably by Natural England, and have formed a real team. 

Charlie Forbes Adam, owner of Escrick Park also added ‘I am delighted that Skipwith Common has obtained status as a National Nature Reserve, it is justly deserved as it is such a special place for all to enjoy’ 

The Common is also supported by the local voluntary group, The Friends of Skipwith Common, who organise a variety of activities, including archaeological surveys, litter picking and sheep herding, as well as arranging pleasure walks and nature rambles.