ENVIRONMENTALISTS and military bosses have joined forces to help safeguard the future of Salisbury Plain.

An environmental agreement on the Plain by the Army Training Estates Salisbury Plain, Defence Estates, English Nature and English Heritage was signed on Wednesday.

The agreement ensures the Plain is protected despite increased military manoeuvres.

Sarah Grinstead, conservation officer for English Nature, said: "This is an important time for Salisbury Plain and the protection of its amazing habitats and wildlife.

"There has been a significant increase in training and it is early days in terms of implementation of these proposals. However, I am confident the MoD and Defence Estates are making a whole-hearted commitment."

Squadron Leader Mike Gardener, said: "Salisbury Plain is in the wonderful state it is today because the army is the main landlord.

"The signing of this agreement has formalised the process by which the plain is safeguarded and ensures the army becomes a statutory body."