FORMER commoners' leader Richard Manley has taken the reins of an influential new body created to safeguard and support the traditional life and landscape of the New Forest.

After standing down last month after five years as chairman of the Commoners Defence Association, Mr Manley has been appointed founder chairman of The New Forest Trust.

The new body has been set up as a registered charity to raise and channel funds from forest residents and visitors, local, national and international organisations to secure the future of the Forest.

Pilot projects already underway include the Beaulieu Road sale yard and stallion scheme to preserve and improve the breeding of native New Forest ponies. Other aims of the trust include the development of affordable housing for local families and the provision of an outdoor education centre.

Mr Manley said: "The Trust is here to bring new money and new assets to the Forest."

Anyone interested in finding out more can log on to www.newforesttrust.org.uk.