A MAJOR step forward has been taken in the fight to save the Heavens beauty spot on the outskirts of Stroud.

It was revealed this week that a staggering £180k has been pledged towards buying the 100-acre site, described as the 'heart of Stroud'.

Fears were raised last month about future access and possible changes as is it widely believed that the land, which is situated around Thrupp Farm, is due to go on the market with a price tag of around £750,000.

The Heavens Valley Action Group was formed to ensure public access remains and to looking into options for buying the land on behalf of the community.

Hundreds attended a meeting at the Sub Rooms recently to discuss buying the area.

The meeting heard that the £750k sum needed would be raised through a community share issue, donations and other fundraising.

Campaigners have appealed for pledges of donations and are even hoping there may be the possibility of a loan to buy the area which could then be repaid.

And so far nearly £180k has been pledged, with members from the group now thanking those contributors, saying that 'every pound raised helps in their quest to buy the Heavens'.

Karen Thomas, coordinator of the action group, said: "The community has collectively pledged more than £180,000.

"It's a wonderful result so far and shows just how much the Heavens means to residents.

"We're so grateful.

"Every pound helps us in our quest to buy the Heavens Valley and have it owned by the community for ever.

"What we're looking for now is some more major donors, to add to a couple of very large pledges we've had on top of the £180,000.

"These could be in the form of interest free bridging loans to get the purchase underway while we continue to fund-raise.

"In the meantime, we are receiving advice from a range of different specialists to guide us on the long-term management of the Valley in order to enable nature to flourish and protect this unique place that we all love.

"And we are now in very promising talks with the landowner, who was willing to meet with us last week."

The area can currently be accessed via from Horns Road, Bowbridge Lane and also from a path off Gunhouse Lane off London Road.

Campaigners want to get footpaths registered and are looking into applying for tree preservation orders.

Pledges can be made at - tinyurl.com/4btmpakj