BUMBLEBEE, corn bunting and sky lark numbers have been boosted by 22 years of environmentally-friendly farming schemes, a report has found.

According to a study by Natural England, agrienvironment schemes (AES) have brought major benefits to farming landscapes across the North-East.

The report found that schemes have given a lifeline to the corn bunting, which was once common in the region.

Bumblebees have increased 35-fold as a result of field margin management.

While the number of skylark chicks successfully reared has soared by 50 per cent after farmers grew small, undrilled patches of winter cereals.

The report, Agri-environment schemes in England 2009: A review of results and effectiveness, reveals that at 81 per cent, the North-East has by far the largest area of agricultural land covered by AES in England.

Rob Aubrook, Natural England North-East regional director, said: “This report provides conclusive proof that agri-environment schemes have demonstrated their value as a fundamental part of the North-East’s farmed landscape.

“As well as sustaining our wildlife and heritage, they help combat climate change, educate our children, and deliver local investment and jobs.”

The findings have been welcomed by Angus Collingwood- Cameron, North-East director of the Country Land and Business Association.

He said: “This region, with its sumptuous landscapes and high-quality environment, leads the way in agri-environment scheme delivery.

“Our farmers really should be congratulated on their commitment to environmental land management.”

The report draws on research from the 22-year history of the schemes.

It is billed as the most comprehensive analysis of the schemes ever undertaken.

AES provides payments to farmers and land managers to look after the natural environment on their land.

In the North-East, more than 391,000 hectares are under an entry level stewardship or organic entry level stewardship agreement.

More than 83,000 hectares are covered by a higher level stewardship agreement.

There are a further 1,066 countryside stewardship schemes and environmentally sensitive areas covering about 82,000 hectares.

In total, Natural England invests nearly £27m into the North-East rural economy each year.