LORD Montagu of Beaulieu's eldest son is to serve a second three-year term as one of the New Forest Verderers.

The Hon Ralph Montagu who was appointed by the Forestry Commission in 2003, has been asked to carry on until summer 2009.

The Official Verderer Oliver Crosthwaite Eyre welcomed Mr Montagu's reappointment.

He said: "Ralph has a great knowledge of the New Forest and experience in managing land in a balanced way to benefit all users and visitors.

"His knowledge is of great value and it's very good news that will be part of the Court of Verderers for another three years."

Mr Montagu, 45, grew up on the 7,000-acre Beaulieu Estate, which comes under the Verderers' jurisdiction.

He said: "With the transition to National Park status complete, I hope I can play my part in developing a positive working relationship with the National Park Authority."