North Northumberland MP welcomes Government support to secure Rothbury Estate

The 4,000-hectare estate includes internationally important moorland and woodland, alongside 12 farms, 23 homes and a village pub.

He says the £1.94m Defra funding provides long-term certainty for those who live and work on the estate while safeguarding its natural environment for future generations.

When the estate was put up for sale, there were real concerns it could be bought by developers and broken up, putting important habitats and landscapes at risk.

The Wildlife Trusts agreed a deal with the sellers and launched a £30 million public appeal to buy the estate, attracting support from thousands of people, including Sir David Attenborough.

The Trusts have raised £28 million, with the Labour Government contribution through Defra closing the final funding gap.

North Northumberland MP David Smith has been working with Defra ministers and officials throughout the campaign to make the case for Government support.

He said: "The response from people across North Northumberland and far beyond has been incredible, from local residents and community groups to major donors and Sir David Attenborough. People have come together to protect a truly special landscape and secure its future for generations to come.

"This is a fantastic opportunity to create a landscape where farming, rural livelihoods and nature can thrive side by side. It will help safeguard the working farms and businesses that are such an important part of the estate, while opening up more opportunities for local communities and visitors to enjoy and connect with this remarkable place.

"I'm really pleased that the Government has helped to get this over the line. It's a major vote of confidence in North Northumberland and I want to thank everyone who has worked so hard to make this happen, particularly Northumberland Wildlife Trust and The Wildlife Trusts."