Caroline Nokes, MP for Romsey and Southampton North, visited the Hawk Conservancy Trust as part of English Tourism Week, celebrating one of the most prominent tourist destinations in the constituency. The visit provided an opportunity to recognise the Trust's vital work in conservation, education, research and bird of prey rehabilitation.
Welcoming over 65,000 visitors annually, the Hawk Conservancy Trust is home to more than 130 species and plays a significant role in supporting the local economy through tourism and environmental engagement. The Trust has earned a reputation both nationally and internationally for its innovative conservation programmes and educational outreach. It is particularly well known for its work with birds of prey and their habitats, including successful breeding and rehabilitation efforts, research into avian health and behaviour, and its commitment to inspiring the next generation of conservationists.
Caroline Nokes had the opportunity to meet with the dedicated team behind the Trust’s success, learning more about their current projects and long-term vision. These include community engagement programmes, school visits, and international partnerships that support global conservation.
Speaking after the visit, Caroline Nokes MP said: "The Hawk Conservancy Trust is a fantastic example of how tourism and conservation can go hand in hand. It’s one of our constituency’s greatest assets, not just for the incredible experience it offers to visitors, but for the important work it does in conserving and rehabilitating birds of prey. English Tourism Week is a perfect time to shine a spotlight on this exceptional organisation."
Ms. Nokes also praised the Trust’s role in boosting employment and offering unique volunteering opportunities, contributing to both the environment and the community. She reiterated the importance of recognising and supporting institutions like the Hawk Conservancy Trust as the tourism and environmental sectors continue to develop.
The visit highlighted the impact that organisations like the Hawk Conservancy Trust have in promoting biodiversity, inspiring learning, and supporting the local visitor economy. Ms. Nokes expressed her continued support for the Trust’s work and praised its contribution to the wider environmental and tourism sectors.
Penny Smout, the Chief Executive Officer of the Hawk Conservancy Trust, said, “It was delightful to meet Caroline and share insights into our recent achievements as well as our future ambitions. We are grateful for her time and support, and knowledgeable discussion about the challenges we face. Although Caroline has been a visitor to the Trust and is aware of our work, it was a fabulous opportunity to discuss our projects in more detail and we look forward to working together to conserve birds of prey and their habitats.”
