The heritage of the Chilterns now has another line of defence after a new group of volunteers were formed to tackle some of the mos imminent threats to the countryside.

The Chiltern Society’s Heritage Group is launching three initial projects as it looks to overcome challenges facing the region.

Members want to save pubs from closing down by working with Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), to increase public knowledge and awareness of the Chilterns’ important buildings and to promote the 47-mile stretch of the Ridgeway National Trail that runs through the Chiltern Hills.

Earl Howe, the society’s president, told a launch meeting of the Chiltern Society Heritage Group at Chenies Manor:”If anyone doubts why a group like this is needed they have only to think about some of the threats that loom over us in the Chilterns.

“Not just HS2, which I fear will do untold damage to the landscape, including some of our ancient woodlands, but more generally the pressures that arise from competing demands on space and land.

“Those demands stem not only from developers but also from the commercial needs of landowners, and from the public who are becoming increasingly insistent on unfettered countryside access.”

He added: “Our heritage is very much about us. It is something that tells us who we are and why we are what we are.

“Living in an old country, as we do, presents real challenges - challenges that flow from having an embarrassment of riches. There are judgements to be made about what we absolutely got to save and what we are content to leave for another day, or even let go of altogether.”

The conservation charity with nearly 7,000 members is keen to hear from anyone who would like to join its group which is supported by over 30 historical and archaeological groups.

You can learn more via www.chilternsociety.org.uk