EXMOOR Society chairman Rachel Thomas has warned of a period of great uncertainty, not least for national parks.

Speaking at the AGM, she said that, with Brexit and the end of the Common Agricultural Policy, the society needed to stay abreast of farm funding proposals.

“There appears to be no firm ground, with uncertainty over the continuation of future public funding and no clear way ahead for the rural environment and agriculture.

“There is a great deal of noise and clutter from different bodies and interest groups putting forward their own views, sometimes exaggerated or in black and white terms leading to claims and counter claims.

“The Exmoor Society needs to keep abreast with the different ideas for future farm funding on Exmoor with around £13 million coming into the area from the Basic Payment Scheme and agri-environmental payments at the moment.

“What we do know is that Exmoor’s diverse landscapes, rich habitats and wildlife and ancient culture are inextricably linked to farming activities and the farming community.”

The AGM also heard from other speakers including its archivist Dr Helen Blackman, Alison Smith from Plantlife, Myc Riggulsford on the Charter of the Forest, 800 years old this year, and Steven Pugsley who won the Founder’s Award.

The meeting closed with Dr Nigel Stone giving his reflections on 17 years as Exmoor chief executive.

Pictured from the left, Alison Smith, Myc Riggulsford, Rachel Thomas, president Sir Antony Acland, Dr Helen Blackman, Dr Nigel Stone and Steven Pugsley.

Full report in the Free Press.