LARGER-than-life actor Brian Blessed is fitting a new role into his already busy schedule.

He's taken over as president of Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and has made a flying visit to the region to find out more about its work.

The Yorkshire-born actor, who has just finished filming Alexander for director Oliver Stone, in Morocco, joined volunteers maintaining a hedgerow.

"I'm 500 per cent behind the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust," he said.

"There is so much vital work going on to look after nature reserves, protect threatened species, like otters and water voles, and, most importantly, help people enjoy wildlife and get involved with practical work.

"There's a marvellous combination of expert staff and great volunteers, who bring loads of knowledge and enthusiasm. I'm honoured to be president."

He added: "My job takes me all round the world but I never forget I'm from Yorkshire.

"The trust is protecting the county for the future, such as looking after Bolton-on-Swale Nature Reserve and encouraging otters to spread along our rivers.

"I'd urge everyone to join today. The more members we have, the more work we can do."

Trust chairman Ricky Donner said: "We are thrilled to have Brian join us as president. He's a larger-than-life character with enthusiasm to match.

"We have members all over Yorkshire and hundreds of volunteers are doing their bit for wildlife. I know Brian will inspire more people to join us. They'll get a warm welcome."

* Brian has signed copies of his latest book, Quest For The Lost World, about fulfilling his childhood dream to explore the plateau of Mount Roraima in Venezuela.

The trust will be giving these away to winners of a prize draw. Anyone can enter by sending a postcard to Brian Blessed competition, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, 10 Toft Green, York YO1 6JT.