A CELEBRATION of nature was held in a new biosphere inside the national park.

The Sussex Festival of Nature attracted nature lovers from across Sussex to Stanmer Park to enjoy sheep shearing, heavy horses and bird of prey on Sunday.

The event, organised by Brighton and Hove City Council with the South Downs National Park and the National Trust, was also a chance to find out more about the new Brighton and Lewes Downs Biosphere.

Councillor Pete West, chair of Brighton and Hove’s Environment and Sustainability committee, said: “The Biosphere is about putting a spotlight on the unique combination of downland, city and sea we have on our doorstep. “I’ve always been struck by the pride local people have in our special environment, so I’m delighted that we’ve been granted what I see as the natural equivalent of a world heritage site and that it will be celebrated at the Sussex Festival of Nature.

“It’s about more than just the green spaces over in the national park, and mitigating against climate change - but also about increasing biodiversity within our city for all our benefit. We’re already encouraging wildlife in our parks and green spaces for example but our ongoing work and the attention this award brings will attract visitors and investment to our region.”