South West Water announced as main supporter of Moor Otters arts initiative on Dartmoor
South West Water has been named as the main supporter of the Moor Otters public arts initiative created by Dartmoor National Park.
The campaign aims to raise £100,000 to support projects to conserve and enhance Dartmoor’s wildlife, landscape and improve accessibility for everyone to the Moor. From 1st June 2017, 100 life-size otter sculptures will be displayed along a trail in accessible public areas around Dartmoor and the neighbouring gateway towns.
Alan Hyde, South West Water’s Head of Community Relations, said: “We’re delighted to support this important conservation project. About 40% of our water supply comes from Dartmoor and, given that we work with nature to help deliver high quality drinking water to our customers, this is a natural partnership for a great cause.”
“We look forward to being part of such an exciting project that will educate the public about fundamental conservation efforts and create positive opportunities for an enhanced visitor experience on Dartmoor.”
Alongside conservation projects to enhance the wildlife, landscape and improved accessibility; the money raised from the campaign will be used to help develop Dartmoor’s Young Ranger programme, which supports educational access and engages young people in conservation projects, creating conservationists of the future.
The trail is the first of its kind for a National Park and is attracting support from a variety of regional and local businesses. The following organisations have pledged their support for the campaign so far: Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood, Absolute PR and Marketing, Western Morning News, Mail Boxes Etc, Bovey Castle and Melchior Chocolates.
Dave Southern, Project Manager for the Moor Otters campaign added: “South West Water’s commitment to this campaign is very welcome. Getting everyone involved is imperative to help raise the important funds needed to carry out ongoing conservation work in Dartmoor National Park.
“The trail is a fantastic opportunity to showcase Dartmoor’s rugged untouched landscape and also help benefit the local economy with an expected increase in visitors to the area. We encourage any regional businesses who want to get involved or sponsor an otter to get in touch.”
Businesses interested in sponsoring an otter should contact Dave Southern on 07491 925157 or email dave@moorotters.co.uk.