Friends of Combe Valley
Founded: Established as a registered charity (No. 1163581) promoting environmental conservation in Combe Valley, East Sussex.
Purpose: Focused on preserving and enhancing the natural landscape, wildlife habitats, and biodiversity within Combe Valley Countryside Park and surrounding areas, including the SSSI-designated Filsham Reed Beds[1][5].

Objectives and Activities

The charity collaborates with local organizations to safeguard the valley’s ecosystems, which encompass the Combe Haven river, Watermill Stream, and coastal zones between Bexhill, Crowhurst, and St Leonards-on-Sea[2][4]. Key initiatives include:

• Conservation efforts: Organizing weekly volunteer work parties for habitat restoration and maintenance[2][5].
• Education: Facilitating school programs and public engagement to promote awareness of local flora and fauna[2][4].
• Accessibility: Improving pathways and facilities for walkers, cyclists, and equestrians, while advocating for inclusive access[2][4].
• Anti-vandalism measures: Employing wardens to patrol the area and mitigate environmental damage[1][4].

Governance and Membership

Following a 2019 constitutional update, the charity operates under a membership model, with trustees elected at annual general meetings[3]. Public meetings were traditionally held monthly at the Discovery Centre near Freshfields, though these were temporarily suspended post-2020[5].

Events and Volunteering

Regular activities include conservation workdays every Thursday and social events such as board game nights and craft sessions[2]. Volunteers contribute to projects ranging from footpath maintenance to species monitoring[2][5].

[1] https://nbn.org.uk/members/friends-of-combe-valley/ [2] https://friendsofcombevalley.co.uk [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5064404 [4] https://friendsofcombevalley.co.uk/about-us/ [5] http://www.combevalleycountrysidepark.com/involve/friends.php