MORE than 400 acres of prized heathland on the Quantock Hills has been secured for future generations.

Somerset County Council sparked a storm of protest when it announced more than a year ago that it was selling off Custom Common near Over Stowey and Thorncombe Hill near Bicknoller in a bid to raise funds and reduce its liabilities.

But now a charity set up more than 60 years ago to safeguard the Quantocks has taken over the management and stewardship of the two parcels of land for a peppercorn £1 fee.

The Friends of Quantock will hold the areas as custodians in perpetuity on behalf of the people of Somerset and the many visitors from further afield.

Although the land's designation as an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Site of Special Scientific Interest gave it protected status, campaigners insisted it should remain in public ownership.

The deal between the county council and the charity was officially sealed last Friday.

Alan Hughes, chairman-elect of the Friends of Quantock, said the charity was delighted to be able to take on the challenge of managing the land.

"But it will be a challenge as it will cost up to £5,000 a year to maintain the land and we will need the support of more members," he said.

"Work will be needed to its paths, car parks and woodland, as well as to protect its rare plants, birds and ancient monuments.

"This is a wonderful opportunity to involve local people in their heritage and we are grateful to the county council for making this takeover possible."

The charity said people would continue to have free public access to the area as they had done for hundreds of years without restriction.

And it said the takeover had only been possible because of the Friends of Quantock's long involvement with the hills, its willingness to take responsibility for managing the sites and support of its members - private individuals and local companies.

County council cabinet member for resources Cllr David Huxtable said the authority was delighted to transfer the land.

"It was always our intention to transfer our ownership to those who can invest their time and money, enabling us to concentrate our limited resources on protecting essential frontline services," he said.

"We know these lands will be in good hands now and for future generations to enjoy as they always have."

The county council sold a third parcel of land - the 1,550-acre Great Wood - to the Forestry Commission last year for £250,000.

More information about becoming a member of the Friends of Quantock or making a donation to a special fund set up to cover the cost of maintaining the land - Saving the Quantocks - is available at http://www.friendsofquantock.com">www.friendsofquantock.com or by ringing 01984 656633.