Peel Forest popular

Press, 8 November 1978, Page 13

Peel Forest popular

More than 40,000 people visited the Peel Forest Park last year, compared with 32,800 the previous year, according to the annual report of the park board.

The demand by campers had been unprecedented, and many booking requests were turned down because the camp was full at peak holiday times. For two weeks over Christmas, the number of campers turned away equalled the number in residence, said the report. Requests from schools and clubs for talks on the park could not always be met because of the heavy workload on staff, the report said. Since the “devastating” flood of January, 1975, the bush, vegetation and ground had continued to improve, and there was now little evidence of damage. The board is concerned at the increasing number of search and rescue incidents within and bordering the park. Many were due to park visitors underestimating weather conditions, and making trios beyond their capabili'ses, said the report. Mountain safety leaflets were now being distributed.

People employed under the Labour Department’s special employment scheme had done work that would not otherwise have been possible. This highlighted the need for more board staff, the report said.