The donation will go towards DWT’s conservation work in Dorset, with some being donated specifically to The Kingcombe Centre to fund the new ‘exploration zone’ which will enable people of all abilities and ages to explore the unique mix of habitats in and near the centre, which is surrounded by the 450 acre Kingcombe Meadows Nature Reserve.
The Earl and Countess of Sandwich also have family connections to Kingcombe, as it was part of the Earl of Sandwich’s Hooke Estate in the early 19th century. There is a stone carved insignia of the Earl of Sandwich in the centre of the hamlet.
Lady Sandwich said, “We hold two plant fairs a year and each year we choose a different charity to support. We are very concerned that wildlife should be conserved and encouraged, so it made sense to donate to our local Wildlife Trust in Dorset. Our grandson is particularly enthusiastic about wildlife and has visited Kingcombe, which is the nearest DWT nature reserve to the Mapperton Estate. We believe in the work that the Wildlife Trusts do and are keen to support the greater conservation effort in Dorset, as well as the local Kingcombe Centre.”
DWT’s Kingcombe Centre Manager, Steve Marsh said, “We’re very grateful for this donation and we plan to use the money to put in place our new exploration zone at Kingcombe, which allows people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the many unique habitats we have at the Centre – including wildflower meadows, the river Hooke, the orchard, and the wildlife garden. They can all be explored within half an hour (or longer if you prefer!), followed by a cream tea in the Kingcombe Tearoom.”
The Kingcombe Centre is at the heart of the Kingcombe Meadows nature reserve in West Dorset and runs courses and workshops throughout the year. There is also a variety of accommodation options to extend your stay with the Orchard Hut ‘living van’ and B&B accommodation in ‘The Lodge’. Visit The Kingcombe Centre website or phone 01300 620684 to find out more and book.
Whilst visiting the area, Mapperton House and Gardens is close by in Beaminster. To find out more and plan your day, click here.
