Hurst Hill, a public access hill to the west of Oxford, is currently threatened by the idiotic policies of English Nature. The hill is covered with new woodland, developing slowly into a place of great diversity, and the clearing in the centre of the hill has proved a natural spiritual oasis for ravers and dog walkers alike. Many longer-term Oxford activists will remember and cherish parties up "The Hurst" and know the value of this gorgeous bit of woodland.

Unfortunately English Nature, with fine but blinkered motivation, want to turn Hurst Hill into heathland, which would mean cutting down most of the trees and destroying the beauty of the central grass area of the hill. Their reasoning is that heathland is more biologically diverse, and that Hurst Hill is not an ancient woodland.

Others however believe that diversity should be considered more carefully, in the light of there being very little unspoilt woodland in Oxfordshire, and that Hurst Hill should be given a chance to develop as one habitat, rather than artificially regimented into another. Some of us also believe that 'the Hurst' has a spiritual value to many that will be entirely ruined. A beautiful reflective place is going to be sacrificed to the god of quotas and dull reasoning.

Consultation has already happened, and English Nature claim the approval of local people. But very few people knew about the plans at all, and Hurst Hill belongs to all who have appreciated it.

Chopping is set to begin very soon, possibly in August. There is no number to ring or organisation to join to stop it. This mail is acting simply as publicity. I am asking the readers of the website how they feel about this. If there are enough people against it, English Nature could very easily be detered, as they have no financial element riding on it. But it may come down to direct tactics.

I look forward to hearing your views. Hurst Hill is easily visited by taking the 4B bus from town and getting off at the top of Cumnor Hill, going up Hurst Lane until the footpath, and following your nose from there. Enjoy it while it remains beautiful.

Mr Loveblanket