At a ceremony on 13th July, West Sussex Deputy Lieutenant Neil Hart unveiled a new representation panel in Bepton. The Panel highlights Bepton Down which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Access Area managed by the Cowdray Estate.

Pictured are (L to R) Simon Verrall (Chair,Bepton Down Conservation Group), Neil Hart (Deputy Lieutenant of West Sussex), and Cllr Helen Hollowood (Bepton Parish Council).

Bepton Down is a rare example of unimproved chalk grassland. It is home to a wide range of plants and animals including species of Orchid such as the Early Purple, Common Spotted, Greater Butterfly, Pyramidal, Common Twayblade, Bee Orchids and White Helleborines.

The Bepton Down Conservation Group suggested to the Parish Council that a panel might be suitable for a Chichester District Council grant which was being offered to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday. Simon Verrall, Chair of the Conservation Group, designed and commissioned the Panel and the Parish Council were successful in applying for the grant.

Mr Hart, a Bepton Resident, thanked Chichester District Council, the Parish Council, Mr Verrall & the Conservation Group, and the Cowdray Estate. About 20 local residents turned out for the ceremony and a toast was raised to the new sign and to Her Majesty.