RABBIT warrens in Dalby and Wykeham forests have been earmarked for protection by the Government because of their historic value.

A total of 13 sites have been listed as scheduled ancient monuments (SAMs) -mainly warrens and enclosures from North Yorkshire's rabbit farming industry, from a time when the area was a major producer of pelts for the London hat trade. A Bronze Age barrow in Dalby Forest, more than 2,000 years old, has also been given SAM protection on the advice of English Heritage.

The move has been welcomed by the Forestry Commission.

District forester Peter Green said: "We ensure forestry and recreational activities steer clear of these sites in any case to prevent damage.

"But scheduling means they get added legal safeguards and we're very pleased by this latest move. Many such relics have been lost under the plough, but the stable environment offered by the forests since they were first planted in 1920s has protected them.

"It's amazing how much survives and I'm sure more sites will be uncovered in future years."

For more on Dalby Forest, visit www.forestry. gov.uk/DalbyForest.

Updated: 10:18 Wednesday, August 13, 2003