Red Squirrel Group

Every year about this time we go to the APM of the Red Squirrel Group.  Yes that is APM annual Public meeting.  The Red Squirrel Group is a charity which is doing what it can to protect and improve the position of Red Squirrels in Penrith and District.  Cumbria is one of the few places in England which still has a good population of Reds.

The group has 7 rangers covering an area of 600+ square miles.  The problem for the Red is the Grey is moving into the area.  All the culled Greys have been carrying the squirrel pox virus which is deadly to  the Reds.  If that wasn't bad enough they eat food Reds would eat but while it is younger and indigestible by the Reds reducing their food supply.

The worrying news (as if the Greys weren't bad enough) is that grants are running out and the financial future looks bleak.  The rangers have already had their hours cut.  More members are desperately needed.  Some businesses are being a great help.  Center Parcs employ one of the rangers, Lowther estates are creating a 250 hectare forest which while commercial has been designed as ideal Red Squirrel habitat.

The blip?  Oh at the meeting there was a little raffle.  If your ticket was drawn you took your pick from the table.  The last prize was the box of crisps.  A number of tickets were drawn and the holder declined the crisps.  I was asked to draw a ticket.  Blue 254!  Who has blue 254?  I have!   Before I could decline the crisps were placed in my lap and the evening ended.