'8th wonder of the world': CLA launches Countryside Matters campaign

The campaign aims to demonstrate why investment in the countryside should remain a priority post Brexit
The campaign aims to demonstrate why investment in the countryside should remain a priority post Brexit

A new campaign has been unveiled by rural organisation the CLA to unite people who love the countryside and believe it is worth investment.

The organisation which represents landowners, farmers and rural businesses, launched the campaign to mobilise the public to show their support for the importance of investing in the countryside post-Brexit at the Devon Show today (18 May).

As well as garnering public support ‘The Countryside Matters’ campaign also aims to educate people about the important benefits delivered by a working countryside, from supplying affordable and nutritious food through to promoting natural storage and cleaning of water and maintaining habitats for wildlife.

Over the coming months, the CLA will be taking this message around the country at country shows and to newly elected MPs.

The CLA has previously warned of catastrophe for the rural economy unless Government negotiators secure the right Brexit deal with the remaining 27 members of the European Union.

'8th wonder of the world'

CLA President Ross Murray said the British countryside is the '8th wonder of the world' and the envy of many.

He said: “It provides us with a large proportion of the food we eat and the water we drink, it cleans the air we breathe and sustains a rich diversity of wildlife. These features bring benefits to every person who lives in, works in, or enjoys visiting our countryside.

“But there is risk once the UK leaves the EU. It is vital for the Government to treat farming, the rural economy and our landscapes as a public investment priority. Money can be spent in new ways to deliver better outcomes for the economy and environment.

“If you believe in a vibrant, living and working countryside then you believe the countryside matters. This is why are launching ‘The Countryside Matters’ campaign to highlight why it should be a government priority, that it is worth investment and that the return on that investment benefits everyone.”

Farmers and the general public can support the campaign by signing up at the Countryside Matters website and tweet why the countryside matters on Twitter using the hashtag #countrysidematters.