KEETCH WELCOMES THE RE-INTRODUCTION OF VOLES INTO HEREFORDSHIRE

12.34.20pm GMT Wed 5th Jul 2006

Hereford MP, Paul Keetch has welcomed the reintroduction of 500 young water voles into the River Dore, as the final stage of the Game Conservancy Trust's (GTC) £1.1m River Monnow Project.

Mr Keetch has tabled a parliamentary motion congratulating the move to release more than fifty separate colonies over 30km of river-bank this summer.

There has been a drastic reduction in the population of this species over the twentieth century, due to a loss of suitable river habitat and the introduction of predators like the American mink. The River Monnow Project has seen the improvement of over 60km of river habitat, through coppicing trees and bank-side fencing.

Speaking on the issue, Mr Keetch added:

"I am delighted that Herefordshire was chosen for this pioneering project which will lead the way for the reintroduction of one of the most charismatic of river creatures.

"Conservation of our river-banks is a vital part of protecting the beautiful Herefordshire countryside and I encourage my colleagues to back this project and support the motion."