AN appeal has been launched for memories of the River Rye – before they are lost forever.

The North York Moors National Park Authority and University of Teesside are joining forces to collect memories, archives, case studies and photography from people who have worked or lived near the River Rye, particularly landscape or wildlife.

Led by university researchers, the team will study the findings and look at how the perception of Ryedale has changed over time.

The initiative, which is part of the £3.4 million Ryevitalise Landscape Partnership, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, aims to understand how people connect with the rural landscape and the importance of preserving wildlife for future generations.

“We’re really interested in hearing from everyone who has had some sort of connection with this area of the North York Moors and Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – and we want to know why it is so important to them,” said Dr Jennifer Hagan, the project leader.

“We’re particularly interested in hearing childhood memories from different local communities.

“We will also be working with children and young people, local history and environmental organisations, landowners and people who visit to experience this spectacular landscape.

“We want to use this project to inspire people to look after the area where they live and appreciate what it has been through over the generations.”

The memories will be told through public art installations and workshops designed to empower people to take action in future conservation projects.

“Memories such as catching bullheads in streams or the gentle purr of turtle doves among the trees are all moments we want to conserve,” said Alexandra Cripps, Ryevitalise programme manager.

“Such precious moments help shape our connection with the natural world and reveal how our relationship with nature has changed over time.

“We are urging anyone to come forward and share what moments have stood out for them.

“Together we can help inspire the next generation of custodians of this enigmatic landscape.”

The University of Teesside will be collecting people’s memories, including diaries, photographs and case studies until March 2021.

If you would like to be part of the project, contact ryevitalise@northyorkmoors.org.uk or visit northyorkmoors.org.uk