THE 50th anniversary of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) was celebrated in style during a special reception at the Palace of Westminster.

Hosted by Cotswold MP Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, the reception featured a range of speakers including Rory Stewart, Minister for Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

Designated in 1966, the Cotswolds AONB covers vast swathes of the district, extending from Bath to Stratford and from Gloucester to Witney, covering almost 800 square miles. It is the largest of the country's AONBs and currently the second largest protected landscape in England.

During the reception, Mr Stewart spoke about the purpose and importance of designating the Cotswolds as an AONB in the 1960s to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the area.

“The Cotswolds AONB is a memorable landscape and one that will long continue," he said.

Others who attended the reception included Harriett Baldwin, MP for West Worcestershire, and Nigel Huddleston MP, who represents Mid-Worcestershire.

Mr Clifton-Brown said: “I was delighted to host the event to help mark the 50th anniversary of the Cotswolds being designated an AONB.

"It is a landscape in which we all have a stake; a local and national jewel.

"I encourage all to help us ensure that it is a landscape conserved and enhanced for the next 50+ years and I invite everyone to help mark and celebrate the 50th Anniversary within your own organisation in the months ahead."

Liz Eyre, chairman of the Cotswolds Conservation Board, spoke of various opportunities going forward, and asked those attending to pledge their support.

Ambitions for the area, she said, include securing the Cotswolds as a 'dark sky reserve' and making the Cotswolds the 'walking and exploring capital of England'.

During the reception, Hook Norton Brewery launched its Cotswold Lion beer, brewed specially to celebrate the 50th anniversary, while Cotswolds Distillery presented tastings of its gin, which currently has a commemorative 50th anniversary design. Both companies are making a financial donation to the Cotswolds AONB.

Celebration events will continue across the Cotswolds throughout the year, including roadshows, workshops and exhibitions.