A ONCE distinctive feature of Yorkshire’s rural landscape is to be revived in a new project.

Funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), over the next two years the Wolds Water project will see Yorkshire Wildlife Trust working with local farmers to restore a network of historic dew ponds stretching more than 20 miles from Thixendale to Fordon on the Yorkshire Wolds.

The trust will also be working with Driffield Agricultural Society to create a "demonstration pond" at Driffield Showground to showcase the history and wildlife of such ponds to tens of thousands of visitors each year.

The dew ponds were created predominantly in the 18th and 19th centuries to provide crucial water for livestock in the dry landscape of the High Wolds. While few are used by livestock today, they are a haven for wildlife and an important historic feature of the landscape.

The project will train volunteers in pond restoration and surveying and species identification.

Emily McGregor, Wolds Dew Pond project officer, said: “People are at the heart of this project and we are keen to involve the local community in the full range of activities.

“We want to reconnect people with the history and wildlife of dew ponds so that these features once again become a core part of the culture and landscape of the Wolds.”

David Renwick, head of HLF Yorkshire and the Humber, said: “The Wolds Landscape is one of Yorkshire’s best kept secrets, but it’s becoming increasingly well known as a result of David Hockney’s paintings and the BBC mini-series Hidden Treasures of the Wolds.

“One of these hidden treasures are its Dew Ponds.

“We’re delighted that, thanks to National Lottery players, we’ve been able to support this project, and give local people the opportunity to explore and preserve the natural heritage on their doorstep.”

Have you got any stories or memories of dew ponds to share? Email info@ywt.org.uk or phone 01904 659570.