CAMPAIGNER TO LEAD THE SOUTH DOWNS SOCIETY
Today (1 May 2010), Society stalwart and experienced campaigner, Robert Cheesman, has been elected Chairman of the South Downs Society. He will be leading the Society during the crucial period when the National Park Authority is set up.
Robert’s priorities are to build a strong relationship with the National Park Authority, and to recruit more younger members and members from Hampshire.
Robert Cheesman said: “We need to influence the National Park’s decisions in their shadow year and make sure they are strong ones. These decisions will shape the way the National Park is run for years to come.
“Our role is a very important one, “ he continued. “The Society has over 2,000 members who love the South Downs, and we have built up considerable expertise since our formation in 1923, so we have a lot to offer. We will be working hard to give advice and support to the National Park Authority, and also to monitor what they do. Sometimes we won’t agree with their proposals, and we may need to campaign to get them changed.”
“We also need to strengthen the Society by recruiting many more people who love the Downs. The support for the National Park in Hampshire was immense, and we will be inviting many people to join our ranks from this part of the Downs.
“And from Eastbourne to Winchester, and beyond the boundaries of the South Downs, young people played a vital part in winning National Park status. To ensure the National Park is protected well into the future, it’s important that we welcome many more youngsters into the Society and harness their passion for the Downs.”
Robert is an experienced countryside campaigner. He led the South Downs Campaign’s successful bid for Lewes to be included in the National Park.
New members joining Robert on the Society’s Board of Trustees are Penny Murray and Robert Self from Hampshire, Richard Mason from West Sussex, and Vicki Elcoate who is a member of the South Downs Joint Committee.