FOWNHOPE Parish Council is gathering non-binding and confidential pledges of gift or investments, in a bid to try and purchase 70 acres of land close to the village.

The council states that the sale includes Whiterdine, and in particular the mowed strip that runs from Ferry Lane across the back of Wye Leisure towards the recreation field, which is used extensively by the local residents.

The council’s vision is to protect and enhance this landscape for nature, walking, wellbeing and community benefit and for it to be safeguarded for future generations.

The parish council is working out how to structure any purchase and is looking at options that include forming a Community Benefit Society or Land Trust.

The survey is being conducted through its website fownhopeparishcouncil.gov.uk .