The Quantock AONB relies on funding from a number of different sources – Somerset County Council, the District Councils and, provided everybody chips in the right amount, the remainder is matched by the Government. But Somerset County Council was considering reducing its contribution by around 90% – even though the money involved is relatively small. Inevitably there was a storm of protest, angry letters and petitions too. I have been working quietly behind the scenes to urge a rethink and I am happy to tell you that the proposal has now been dropped.