The owners of an East Hampshire campsite have made a pitch for a scheme that gives something back to the great outdoors.

Businesses across Hampshire and Sussex have raised more than £16,000 for charity over the last year through the South Downs National Park’s Visitor Giving Scheme.

All donations go to the South Downs National Park Trust, the official independent charity of the National Park.

And its partners include Upper Parsonage Farm, a working family farm between East Meon and Butser that offers various camping facilities.

“We’re incredibly proud to be part of the visitor giving scheme,” said Sue Atkinson, who runs the 1,400 acre farm on Harvesting Lane with her husband, Nick.

“It’s been fantastic to see our guests so willing to contribute to the preservation of the South Downs. They really value the opportunity to give back to the beautiful landscape they are enjoying during their stay.”

The SDNPT calls the scheme a “simple way of inviting voluntary donations from visitors to the South Downs, inspiring them to put something back into looking after the places they love to visit.”

Customers have the option to make a donation on top of the cost of their stay or purchase, with the proceeds going on nature-themed projects around the park like tree planting, creating wildflower meadows, new hedgerows, footpath renovations and encouraging more youngsters to explore the glorious great outdoors.

More than £70,000 has been raised from the initiative over the last seven years with the National Park keen to get more businesses involved.

Upper Parsonage Farm is one of several partners, with others ranging from hotels and campsites to cycle hire firms and fungi fermenters.

“It aligns perfectly with our ethos here at Upper Parsonage Farm, where we are passionate about protecting the flora and fauna of our valley,” added Sue.

“We notify our guests of any species of flora, and sightings of fauna in the local vicinity. It also encourages guests to recycle and be more sustainable.”

She added: “Seeing the tangible results of these contributions, like local signage and path improvements of the South Downs Way above the farm towards Butser gives our guests a wonderful sense of connection to the local conservation work that we are all supporting together."

Chris Hannon, Business Development Lead for the National Park, said: “We're incredibly grateful to the businesses that support the South Downs Trust's Visitor Giving scheme.

“By inviting customers and clients to give a little back while enjoying the South Downs, they are helping to create a powerful connection between people, place and nature.

“Every contribution makes a difference – just £2.50 can create a square metre of wildflower habitat and £5 can help plant a new tree.

“Together, these small acts of generosity add up to a lasting impact, helping us restore nature and protect this special landscape for future generations.”

Any business interested in signing up to the scheme can email [email protected] or call Chris Hannon on 07387 419746.