THE sun shone on Lopwell Dam last week, for the celebration of the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty's new five year plan, that will guide the work of those who care for this protected landscape. Following months of planning, consultation and real teamwork, the new plan was launched at a special event at The Old Pump House, Lopwell. Forty delegates, who have been instrumental in helping devise new policies and actions, joined the Tamar Valley AONB team to celebrate. Chair of the Tamar Valley AONB Partnership, Cllr Neil Burden, said: 'The Tamar Valley, the youngest of all AONBs in the country, has a reputation — this AONB delivers. It benefits the community of the Tamar Valley, and will continue to do so.' Manager of the Tamar Valley AONB, Corinna Woodall, identified a number of key areas for future work. She said: 'We want to be at the very forefront of landscape scale projects, for example, in developing wood fuel opportunities, that will benefit not only Tamar Valley people, and its landscape, but also our wildlife.' Members from each local authority that help fund the AONB and collectively have a responsibility for the designated Tamar Valley area, signed a Charter designed by local artist Ian Heard, pledging their support to help deliver the aims within the Plan. A cake, beautifully crafted with the front cover of the new Management Plan on top, was created by Tavistock's Sugar Sweet Cakes. After a short walk to discuss just some of the themes within the plan, delegates enjoyed a buffet provided by The Old Pump House made from locally sourced ingredients. Free copies of the summary document are available from the Tamar Valley Centre, Drakewalls, or can be viewed online at http://www.tamarvalley.org.uk">www.tamarvalley.org.uk