31 March 2011

Minister of State

Attended a Conference held by The National Forest Company at Conkers Discovery Centre today which was attended by the defra Minister of State - Jim Paice MP and also the local MP Andrew Bridgen was also in attendance.

Minister of State for Agriculture and Food - Jim Paice MP
The National Forest Company outlined their plans for the future. It was good to hear that the plans and targets already set are to be kept in place. There was a chance these may have changed with all the adjustments taking place within the National Forest Company - including the reduction in funding from Central Government and the change of Chair. It was a relief to hear that plans are still on track and that targets are being met and that the work continues apace and continues to amaze.

Simon Evans - Chief Officer Land Use, The National Forest Company

Sophie Churchill - Chief Executive, The National Forest Company
The Minister was given a tour of iconic sites around the National Forest - including the new Cycle Centre at Hicks Lodge. As this is in Ashby Woulds I was asked to be available to meet and greet the Minister and assist with a tree planting in commemoration of his visit.

The New Cycle Centre at Hicks Lodge
 
The Cycle Centre is almost complete

Tree planting to commemorate the visit
The Cycle Centre is approximately 6 weeks away from being completed and opened. The last time I visited it was 6th Dec and the temperature was -14. brrrr. It was lovely to see it almost completed and on a sunny day. It will be a fabulous attraction when it is complete. I might even apply for a job there to keep me busy over the Summer.
brrrrrrrr
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