A Winchester conservation group is facing extinction, say members, and only new people can keep it going.

The city's WWF group has been around for 40 years and some of the founder members are still active.

But the group will fold unless five new members are found, says Dave Nix, the newest recruit, who joined two years ago.

"It was resolved at the last meeting that the club will dissolve unless we find some more members," he said.

"This is a last-ditch bid to save one of the oldest WWF groups. We want people who are keen to take this on. We have a few but we need at least five more. I'm the newest member and I came two years ago. It's going to be no mean feat."

He said changes within the WWF, which used to be called the World Wildlife Fund, had damaged its image and people were no longer sure what the charity did. "Some people believe it's all about saving animals, especially pandas, but animals are perfectly good at looking after themselves if you give them the right habitat.

"The WWF is doing much more in terms of conservation of biodiversity, yet our local group is suffering."

Mr Nix also said time pressures meant fewer people were willing to dovolunteer work.

"I think people have too many commitments and indeed a lot of our members are retired. But I'm in my 30s and I'm sure there are an awful lot of people who want to get involved.

"Saving the planet is quite an important thing but we haven't been able to get in touch with the people who must be interested in joining."

The group are holding an open evening on January 9th, from 7-9pm, at Winchester Tennis and Squash Club in Bereweeke Road, to try to attract new members. "Two hours a week is all we ask and it's a great chance to meet new friends," added Mr Nix.

l Call 01962 859 632 for more information.