Released On 8th Feb 2024
New Engagement Ranger at Ham Hill
Somerset Council’s Countryside Team is thrilled to introduce Jasmine Ely, the newly appointed Engagement Ranger at Ham Hill.
The National Lottery Heritage Fund has generously funded Jasmine’s position for the next three years as part of their support for the “Uncovering Ham Hill’s Past for its Future” project.
It aims to safeguard and restore key archaeological features, including the Iron Age Ramparts and the historic Lime Kiln. Habitat enhancements will promote biodiversity, benefiting wildlife and local ecosystems, and the construction of a new visitor centre will be the centrepiece of the project, which we will be able to tell you more about in the coming weeks.
Jasmine will delve into Ham Hill’s captivating history, spanning from its geological origins to Iron Age settlements and present-day management. Through an exciting line up of public events, school visits, and activities, she will connect visitors with the site’s rich heritage and nature. She will also play a pivotal role in expanding the volunteering programme and encouraging more people to become involved and support Ham Hill.
An exciting events programme is beginning this February half-term, where children can have fun and learn with ‘Fairy Folk Fun’ and ‘Roman Centurions Unite events! Book your place at our Visit South Somerset website and scroll down to the ‘Events’ section.
Jasmine said:
“I am fascinated by Ham Hill’s incredible history, stories and the nature embedded in its landscape. This iconic site is my passion, and strengthening the bonds between the local community and visitors to bring a greater understanding of what makes Ham Hill so special will be the key to securing its future. I am also enthusiastic about Ham Hill’s diverse flora and fauna, and I can’t wait to share the wonders of its wildlife and bring people closer to nature.”
Lead member for Environment and Climate Change Dixie Darch said:
“We are delighted to welcome Jasmine to our amazing team at Ham Hill. Her role as engagement ranger will help us guide and inform visitors, as we set out and implement new and exciting plans to preserve and future-proof this spectacular jewel in the Somerset landscape. Thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and other generous benefactors, we now have the resources to showcase Ham Hill in the way it deserves, with a dedicated person to inspire and encourage visitors to connect with the site and its nature and bring them closer to all it has to offer.”
Get involved.
If you would like to get involved at Ham Hill through volunteering or find out more about the activities Jasmine can offer to your group or organisation, please contact Jasmine by email here Jasmine Ely.
If you would like to follow the project's progress please visit our Visit South Somerset website and scroll down to the ‘Projects’ section.
