A MAJOR survey of breeding birds, a new children's club and research into new markets for moorland ponies are just some of the achievements listed in Dartmoor National Park Authority's annual report, published last week.

The Authority, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, has an extremely varied programme of work which benefits residents, visitors, wildlife and the natural environment alike.

Other achievements include publication of the Dartmoor Biodiversity Action Plan, a survey of bat species, the planting of more than 2,000 trees, archaeological conservation work, the completion of homes for local need and expansion of rural skills courses.

Chairman of the Authority, South Zeal resident Bill Cann, said: 'Going into the 50th anniversary of Dartmoor as a National Park, it is a tremendous privilege to continue to serve as chairman.

'The celebrations have been somewhat curtailed by the foot and mouth crisis. I sympathise with all those people whose livelihoods have been directly affected. As an Authority, we will continue to support all sections of the community to achieve satisfactory progress for the future of Dartmoor.'

Nick Atkinson, chief executive of the Authority, said the welcome increase of 9.2 percent in the National Park Grant awarded by government showed a recognition that the Park is well-placed to deliver items such as social inclusion, sustainable transport and an integrated rural development.

'It is a challenging agenda, with a seeming host of further external funding opportunity to be harnessed,' he said.

The annual report is available from information centres priced £1.90. Copies are also available from the High Moorland Visitor Centre, Old Duchy Hotel, Princetown, Yelverton at £2.50, to include postage.