National Park status will result in a multi-million-pound windfall for the New Forest.

Government ministers have revealed that the National Park bosses can expect to receive £3.5m a year to help preserve the Forest's unique character.

The park authority is due to be launched in April and will take on its full responsibilities 12 months later.

Conservation groups have welcomed the cash promise announced yesterday by rural affairs minister Alun Michael.

They hope it will lead to better protection for the area, often described as the best surviving example of a medieval forest.

Full story in tonight's Daily Echo