The Fry life

ACTOR, author, broadcaster and now environmental campaigner ... Stephen Fry s list of talents has been extended by his new role as president of the Great Fen Project. Mr Fry spent Friday at Woodwalton Fen National Nature Reserve where he was given a guid

ACTOR, author, broadcaster and now environmental campaigner ... Stephen Fry's list of talents has been extended by his new role as president of the Great Fen Project.

Mr Fry spent Friday at Woodwalton Fen National Nature Reserve where he was given a guided tour of the conservation project and lunch.

It was his first visit to the reserve but it brought back childhood memories and a display of passion for the East Anglian countryside.

"I have fond memories of the Fens as a child as I used to travel across them on my way to school in Uppingham," he said.

"When I found out my name had been put forward to be the public face of this project I was delighted.

"People tend to mock the Fens for being in-bred but they forget that it's amongst the most unique and beautiful parts of the British landscape."

The Great Fen Project is one of Europe's most important conservation initiatives.

It aims to restore 37 square kilometres of wetland habitat to the Cambridgeshire Fens by reconnecting Woodwalton Fen with Holme nature reserve.

Mr Fry has a passion for wildlife and has presented a documentary for the National Trust in Norfolk.

"Walking along the bank of a ditch taking in all the wildlife is a fantastic feeling," he said. "One of the biggest traits you can have as a human being is loving both nature and the city, being both urban and rural in one.

"This reserve is unique and beautiful and people can come here at any time to enjoy it.

"It's a real East Anglian treat and, in terms of wildlife, it's one of the richest places in Britain.

"This project isn't about turning the clock back, it's about improving what's already there. I think people tend to talk about the Fens in abstract terms but look around you - this is the Fens, this is nature and it is our role to enjoy it, promote it and wherever possible extend it.

"As a resource it's a wonderful place to come and I am very much looking forward to getting involved in the project."

Great Fen campaign manager Jane Cabutti said: "We are delighted that Stephen has accepted his role and are certain that he will be an asset to the project.

"We are very excited to be working with him. Stephen's role will help the Great Fen Project in its efforts to raise awareness and funding."

INFORMATION: To find out more about the Great Fen Project visit www.greatfen.org.uk