It is a strange description of the Countryside Alliance but in many ways an apt one. The simple fact is that our campaigns have brought something completely new to British politics that did not exist before the Alliance was formed in 1997. The rally in Hyde Park, the Countryside March of 1998 and the huge Liberty and Livelihood March of 2002, not to forget hundreds of other events the length and breadth of the country, gave rural communities a real political voice for the first time.

The Alliance is not just a political lobbying organisation in the traditional sense. It was the catalyst for your voice to be heard and continues to ensure that, whilst the Government might not always have our best interests at heart, it certainly cannot ignore us. When Ann Mallalieu and Kate Hoey MP received the award from Jeremy Irons at the awards in London last night, Ann hit the nail on the head by quoting Shakespeare in describing her own Government as being guilty of the 'insolence of office.' Within touching distance of several Cabinet and Shadow Cabinet Ministers Ann also took the opportunity to warn future administrations - of whatever colour - that there is 'unfinished business' in the countryside.

The Countryside Alliance believes that, when it comes to the defence of rural life, it's 'all of us or none of us'. This belief in unity makes last night's victory all the sweeter; the acclaim is for all of us. So, congratulations to everyone who has marched, signed petitions, written to their MP, volunteered or worked for the Alliance and stoically continued to participate in and defend country sports and the rural way of life for the past decade. Thanks also to the rural organisations and publications who have supported this work. Your efforts have been inspiring and we look forward to keeping the momentum going for the next decade and beyond.

Simon Hart
Chief Executive