WHO WE ARE
Never has there been a more pressing case for the importance, recording, maintenance and enhancement of biodiversity. The decline in acreage and species in the countryside is of concern to all. The John Spedan Lewis Trust for the Advancement of Natural Sciences (JSLTANS) recognises the above and works to promote the natural sciences in the context of The Leckford Estate where we are based.
When John Spedan Lewis retired as Chairman of the John Lewis Partnership in 1955 senior Partners decided that a fund should be raised and given to Mr Lewis so that he could finance projects in the realm of Natural Sciences which he might favour. As a result a sum of £10,000 was raised as a initial Trust Fund.
Over the past 65 years the Trust has encouraged amateur scientists, specific groups and universities to record and monitor everything from river flies to rare birds, flora and fungi. Numerous reports show the changing face of biodiversity on the Estate.
More about our Trust:
WHAT WE DO
Collaboration
Today The Trust works closely with the Leckford Estate influencing how over 1,000 acres of uncropped
land is managed. One of our long-term goals is to restore the special reserves which showcase the
unique diversity of The Leckford Estate. To this end the trust collaborates widely and welcomes future
inquiries from key stakeholders.
Education
We have annual lectures with prominent environmental speakers, we attend public events and we are
currently preparing a series of educational videos. The annual lectures are held locally in Longstock, are
well attended and are also filmed for social media. See events page for further details.