Top role for Bryson

12:50pm Tuesday 8th May 2007

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A best-selling author who lived in the district for many years will take on a new role to protect the British countryside from litter and fly-tippers.

Bill Bryson, who once lived near Skipton, is expected to become the president of the Campaign to Protect Rural England this summer after being endorsed by its board of trustees.

The writer's bestseller Notes from a Small Island documented his travels through numerous towns, villages and cities across the country, He has pledged to make litter a priority and to press politicians to increase fly-tipping penalties.

The CPRE said it believes his presidency will raise the profile of the organisation's cause, protecting and enhancing England's countryside for the benefit of everyone, wherever they live.

He said: "I'm very honoured to be asked. For a very long time I've been a huge admirer of CPRE, what it does and what it stands for. I'd like to help it to build on its successes if I can."