About Us

A little about who we are and what we do...

Benfield Wildlife Group was formed in 1991, and by 1992 had successfully campaigned for the creation of Hove’s first Local Nature Reserve (LNR) on Benfield Hill.

Benfield valley forms one of the very few remaining green tongues of open land remaining in Brighton and Hove, linking the town to the Downs.

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With only about 3% of the species-rich chalk grassland remaining over the whole of the South Downs, it becomes increasingly important to preserve this environment by management.

The special chalk grassland plants have great difficulty in competing with the long grass and shrubs shutting off their light. Without the natural lawn mowing assistance of sheep and cows, the invasive growth needs to be kept back by hand. It is noticeable that, in those areas where it has been kept under control, the plants and small fauna, including the glowworms, take advantage of the opportunity to grow and flourish.

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In 1999 the Conservation section was included to combat schemes proposed to develop Benfield Valley, and its historic Listed Barn and farm buildings.

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Our aims and objectives

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• To protect and enhance Benfield Hill and Valley, including the Reserve.

• To encourage community involvement in conservation.

• To survey and monitor wildlife and habitats.

• To enhance the ecological value of the Reserve.

• Management of the Reserve, to encourage the chalkland plants, butterflies etc to flourish.

• The current Officers are:-

  • Chairman: Dolly Bell

  • Hon. Treasurer: Dave Bell

  • Hon. Secretary: Sally Milne

  • Webmaster;  Gerry White

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We need support to preserve the character of this important area, and if you would like to help in any capacity, such as monitoring any aspect of wildlife, scrub clearing, typing, administration, or in any other way, please contact us as below.

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New members are always welcome and we hope you will want to join us.

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Prices:

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• Individual-£6.00

• Family-£10.00

• Unwaged -£3.00

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Why Join?

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• Quarterly newsletter/magazine

• Talks on wildlife/country crafts etc.

• Flora & fauna identification.

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Please contact us using the form below if you would like to be sent an application form.