Intro

The Trust was launched in 2003 in honour of a highly regarded man, David Arnold Forster. His work has helped to promote the importance of sustainable upland hill farming and support this critical sector of the farming industry. The Trust was established to carry on his work following his untimely death in 2002.

David led a remarkable life and had a notable career including the Chief Executive of English Nature and North York Moors National Park. Responsible for the improvement of relations between the Government's conservation advisors, farmers and landowners, he was at the forefront of the agricultural industry and as such became the Chairman for the Hill Farming Task Force

Task Force For The Hills

England consists of over 2.2 million hectares of hill areas of which 1.8 million hectares are agricultural. Hill farming provides breeding sheep stock for lowland flocks, and beef herds, and provides England and Wales with up to a quarter of their milk supply. This also enables grazing of land which is critical to maintain the landscape as the beautiful and natural asset that it is

As Chairman of the Task Force David identified ways that hill farmers could develop sustainable business enterprises in the uplands. By effectively linking wildlife, social and economic policies he was able to make a significant difference to the way the industry was viewed by itself and others

The Hill Farming Awards

The Trust recognises outstanding contributions to the hill farming industry by farmers and those in the wider community with annual awards being made to honour their efforts. Please visit our Hill Farming Awards page for more information and to nominate farmers for future awards

Our objectives

Honour the life and work of David Arnold-Forster in the field of nature conservation
Promote sustainable upland hill farming
Advance the education of the public in upland hill farming and agriculture
Attract sponsorship and fundraising to enable the Trust to continue its work

Trustees

Anita Arnold-Forster                 Fiona Reynolds, CBE
Sir Martin Doughty                    Simon Sadler, TD
Dr Andy Brown                           Will Terry
Professor Ian Mercer, CBE       John Varley, TD

Contact

The Trust seeks to continue pursuing David Arnold-Forster's objectives for upland hill farming and in order to continue his good work we require sponsorship and fundraising. If you would like to contribute or support the charity please contact us, details below