I WONDER if the new chairman of the Yorkshire Dales National Park would be interested in the strange phenomenon of the flourishing wildlife suddenly emerging in spectacular numbers around Horton-in-Ribblesdale during the Government imposed lockdown.

Just as suddenly, all of the wildlife disappeared as the virus scare eased and lockdown was ended.

There must be some connection between these two events. Would the new 'environmentally friendly' chairman care to comment?

John McKay

Horton in Ribblesdale.

"Yes, I was interested to see wildlife flourishing during the lockdown period not just in Horton-in -Ribblesdale but across the national park and the country.

I’d question whether there was a sudden and spectacular increase in numbers, rather it could have been a case of birds and animals having a greater amount of space within which to express themselves.

However, I think we can learn lessons from the response to the Covid epidemic, especially with regard to the environment in particular cutting carbon emissions and improving things for wildlife. We’ve learned how important open space and fresh air is to the health and wellbeing of the nation, as well as how important visitors are to the businesses of the Dales.

Getting the balance right so nature, people and businesses can all flourish is what we continually strive to achieve."

Neil Heseltine

chairman of the Yorkshire Dales National Park