THE landscape will be improved at a beauty spot thanks a £10,000 donation.

The funding has been given to the National Trust to plant and maintain two blossom hedges on the Golden Cap Estate.

Over the next three years the Trust is hoping to plant 1,500-metres of native species blossom hedge, located along historic hedgerow boundaries on the coastal downland between Seatown and Eype.

Dorset Echo: Golden Cap Estate hedge planting - L-R: Anthony Parsons, son of the late Derek Parsons, and association chairman Mike Nicks Picture: Golden Cap AssociationGolden Cap Estate hedge planting - L-R: Anthony Parsons, son of the late Derek Parsons, and association chairman Mike Nicks Picture: Golden Cap Association

It will form part of a network of hedges and will be planted with hardy, blossoming species such as blackthorn, hawthorn and crab apple and will be visible from neighbouring villages, the South West Coast Path and the A35. A second hedge will be planted at Thorncombe Beacon.

The planting of the hedges has been made possible by a donation of £7,500 from the Golden Cap Association plus a £2,500 legacy from the late Derek Parsons, the association's former chairman and president.

The association was founded to support the National Trust and offers a wide range of activities including walks, illustrated talks and quizzes.

Chairman Mike Nicks said: ‘The committee and all the members of Golden Cap Association are delighted to donate £7,500 to the local area National Trust for the planting and maintenance of two blossom hedges on the Golden Cap Estate.

"I feel it incumbent on all of us to help in a practical and physical way to help slow down the rate of climate change, and along the way to help our wildlife, whether it be animals, birds, insects or flowers to flourish for years and centuries ahead."

He added: "The legacy of £2,500 from Derek Parsons is a very welcome addition to the association’s donation and I know how pleased his family are to support such a worthy and important cause which will also be enjoyed future generations."

Dorset Echo: Golden Cap Estate hedge planting at Seatown Picture: Golden Cap AssociationGolden Cap Estate hedge planting at Seatown Picture: Golden Cap Association

National Trust Countryside Manager Leo Henley Lock said: “We are delighted that this project has been made possible by the generous donation from the Golden Cap Association and the legacy left by the late Derek Parsons.

"Hedgerows form an important part of our landscapes, connecting habitats and wildlife, whilst playing an important role in mitigating the future impacts of climate change.”

For more information about joining the Golden Cap Association visit the website www.goldencapnt.org.uk or call Mr Nicks on 01308 459855.