Bill Bryson backs CPRE campaign
Photo: CPRE/David Rose

FORMER Yorkshire Dales national park resident Bill Bryson, the famous American author, today calls for the whole of England to be made into a national park.

Bryson, who lived for several years in Malhamdale, made his suggestion in his inaugural speech as the newly appointed president of ten Campaign to Protect Rural England, one of the oldest and most respected countryside conservation groups in the country.

"Something I have often wondered is why we don't make the whole of England a National Park. In what way, after all, are the Yorkshire Dales superior to the Durham Dales? Why is the New Forest worthy of exalted status but glorious Dorset unworthy?" he said.

"It is preposterous really to say that some parts are better or more important than others. It's all lovely. And there's not much of it. Of the surface area of the Earth, only a tiny fragment - 0.0174069 per cent, or so I gather - can call itself Great Britain. The fragment that is England is even tinier. So it's rare and dangerously finite and every bit of it should be cherished."

Speaking to CPRE volunteers at the organisation's annual general meeting in London, Bryson goes on to say: "'That is why I am so proud and excited to be part of this heroic organisation, and why I am so pleased to be able to thank you for your years of devoted effort.

"It is deeply appreciated, believe me - even I daresay by those who don't know how much they appreciate it. It is inexpressibly vital that we keep up the fight and I urge likeminded people to join CPRE in its vital work.'

He added: "'Many people are aware of my passion to eradicate litter and CPRE will announce a national campaign on this issue in due course, but I am also a strong supporter of CPRE's broad programme of work.

Something I have often wondered is why we don't make the whole of England a National Park

Bill Bryson

"Our current priorities include opposing elements of the recent Planning White Paper which undermine the role of planning in protecting the environment and reduce community involvement in shaping the future. We are also continuing our excellent work on highlighting how tranquillity enhances our quality of life.'

Bryson takes over the presidency from the distinguished editor and historian Max Hastings who declared: "'Bill is taking over the Presidency just when he is needed most.

"There is no doubt that Gordon Brown intends a massive house-building programme for southern England. CPRE will be in the forefront of the battle to ensure that development takes place where it fits and where it is acceptable, not in areas and on a scale which will do irretrievable damage to our shrinking landscape.'