Dark Skies: Leaders of unique reserve issue plea

Leaders of a nature reserve recognised for having one of the best night skies in the world have urged people to reduce their light pollution.

The Cranborne Chase National Landscape, near Salisbury, Wiltshire is one of seven international dark sky reserve (IDSR) in the UK, and 22 world-wide.

Steve Tonkin, advisor to the reserve, has urged farmers and residents to use warm night lighting and canopy covers.

Mr Tonkin said: "The entire nocturnal habitat is being hammered by the advance of light pollution."

The reserve status is awarded by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) to areas which offer exceptional starry skies.

Tourists travel hundreds of miles to stay at the Wiltshire reserve and experience the stars and wildlife.

Farmer Catherine Lockyer, who runs a campsite in the IDSR, said: "I've had people come specifically for meteor showers and things like that. It's a big draw."

Mr Tonkins said when he takes people out at night, he gets them to listen to the sounds.

"They become aware of the incredible amount of stuff active at night but I think astronomy is the gateway drug - once they see something through a telescope they can go 'wow' at they start caring about night," he added.

Ms Lockyer's Marshwood Farm has been awarded dark sky accreditation.

To receive the status, she installed canopies above her lights, and uses warm-coloured light bulbs, she added.

Mr Tonkin said town councils in Wiltshire have been taking the issue seriously when considering street lighting.

"We can use the planning process to ensure that any light installed externally is installed responsibly," he said.

He advises people to reduce light pollution with solutions like sensor lights and softer bulbs.

"Go for warm light, it's much less devastating to invertebrates," he added.

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