H&W EHT Herefordshire & Worcestershire Earth Heritage Trust

"Earth Heritage" - the aspects of conservation, protection, management, interpretation & education relating to geology, geomorphology, landscape & soils.

From volcanoes to the deep sea, and deserts to ice ages, the geological history of Worcestershire is varied & fascinating, although much of it is unknown to the wider community. The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Earth Heritage Trust aims to record, conserve & promote the geology & landscape of the two counties, via public programmes of education & conservation. The work of the Trust can be divided up into 6 areas.

Geoconservation

Many clues to this amazing history are protected by law; i.e. SSSI's. Many are not, however. The Trust works on the identification & designation of sites that have missed the SSSI guidelines, but are of importance to understanding the history of the region or local area. These are termed Regionally Important Geological/Geomorphological sites (RIGS). Once designated, they are recorded by local government & are subject to local planning laws.

Publications & Geotourism

The Trust produces a range of publications including the successful "Explore" series of trail guides around the two counties. These are on sale at TIC's and tourist destinations. Publications include:

Building Stone Trails

Abberley Village, Bewdley Town Centre, Broadway; Great Malvern; Worcester Cathedral & Worcester City Centre

Geology & Landscape Trails

Abberley Hill, Bredon Hill, Clent Hills, Lickey Hills, Malvern Hills 1 and Malvern Hills 2 & Severn Valley Railway.

There are also more trails being prepared for publication.

In addition, the Trust is in the early stages of producing more detailed, holistic guides of areas, termed Discovery Guides. One is already published, which covers the Abberley & Malvern Hills Global Geopark. It is through these publications & guided events that the Trust hopes to embark on a new & growing venture in the Tourist Industry - "geotourism". It can be defined as tourism that sustains or enhances the geological/geographical character of a place via its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well being of its residents.

Project Work

Much of the Trust's work is done through funded projects, via Natural England, or the Heritage Lottery Fund. These can include such things from writing a long distance trail for the Abberley & Malvern Hills Geopark. (The Geopark Way) to leasing a quarry for 10 years for educational & visitor purposes.

Consultancy Work

The Trust also undertakes work on behalf of the other organisations, e.g restoration of SSSI's sites on behalf of Natural England or countrywide surveys.

Public Awareness

We actively aim to promote Earth Heritage, what it is, and why it is important. This is achieved through various mechanisms. These include Rock & Fossil Roadshows & school visits, where a variety of games & activities for children & adults alike takes place. We are also involved in guided walks & talks & exhibitions, both initiated by ourselves and in cooperation with others.

Geological Records Centre

The offices of the Trust, at The University of Worcester, act as a local resource for information regarding the geology & landscape of the two counties.

In addition, volunteers & members are always needed to participate in the core work of the Trust.