Exmoor National Park is free for all to access but the authority which runs it says that to keep it special, supporters can now make a donation towards ‘CareMoor for Exmoor’, with a new online-giving platform.

The Exmoor National Park Authority says the platform allows people to fundraise for CareMoor and will help to conserve a landscape loved by millions.

The National Park Authority revealed in November it was facing 'tough' decisions to save money as a result of a gap in funding. It said proposals to be considered could affect the ‘rights of way’ network, visitor and outdoor activity centres and staff who it said are a vital part of maintaining and protecting park resources and projects.

The National Park said it receives £1 million less grant funding than it did in 2010 and will have to make a further £500,000 worth of cuts by 2025, to deal with the spending gap. The Authority says it could also be forced to sell land that belongs to the nation such as woodland and moorland and to increase charges in certain areas.

The Authority said in a statement about the new giving platform launched on Wednesday: "Through the platform, it’s now clearer and simpler for people to donate to CareMoor for Exmoor and enables the option to set up a monthly recurring donation.

"The new platform also allows people to create their own fundraising pages in support of CareMoor. People can share their story and photos with their own online giving page, allowing others to make donations direct to their fundraising appeals.

"Individuals can: Raise sponsorship for a personal challenge or as a Team (with donors able to match their contribution to a specific team member), or collect donations in celebration or memory of a special person or occasion."

Rural Enterprise Manager for Exmoor National Park, Dan James, said: “We really want to thank all those who donate to CareMoor, enabling the vital work we do to continue, and allowing us to do additional vital work that isn’t otherwise funded.

"Your contribution makes a huge difference to conservation, public access work and nature recovery projects in Exmoor National Park at a time when we’re facing difficult decisions because of funding pressures. The new platform is really user-friendly, with a ‘step by step’ guide on how to use it and the aim is to make it even easier for Exmoor enthusiasts to support the place they love.”

The statement added: "If you don’t have online access, but still want to support us, you can drop some cash into the collection boxes at our Centres in Dulverton, Dunster and Lynmouth. Or just do your bit by shopping and eating locally, especially where you see the ‘CareMoor’ logo of our CareMoor Champion businesses.

"Many restaurants and tea-rooms use locally sourced ingredients, so your custom will also help our local farmers. Whether you live in, work on or visit Exmoor we really hope those that appreciate Exmoor’s uniqueness will consider donating, and we thank you for your support”.

West Somerset MP Ian Liddell Grainger has said “streamlining” Exmoor national park authority is “an option” as it faces a cash crisis. The Conservative said some ‘ruthless’ decision-making may be needed. He added: “The magnitude of the savings that are being discussed requires far more than one-off cash injections from asset disposal."