A NATIONAL charity that ensures the conservation of red squirrels has received the support of a prominent royal figure.

HRH The Prince of Wales has expressed his support of The Red Squirrel Survival Trust in a letter to one of the charity's volunteers ahead of Red Squirrel Appreciation Day.

Prince Charles expressed his encouragement and admiration for the efforts of volunteers fighting for the survival of the red squirrel, including those that reside in Brownsea Island.

Red Squirrel Appreciation Day, Thursday, January 21, is a chance to celebrate the country's most treasured national wildlife, and those who ensure the protection of their habitat and future.

For the charity, the words of encouragement from Prince Charles will give further momentum to this growing movement of committed conservationists in these challenging times.

In a message to the volunteers, Prince Charles said: "I am so very grateful to all of you, as volunteers, for the crucial role you play in this ongoing battle to protect and restore a precious part of our natural heritage. This brings you all my warmest good wishes, together with every possible encouragement for the task ahead.

"Without your efforts, we simply could not hope to succeed in the task we have set ourselves. Generations to come would be denied the pleasure we take for granted in the healthy woods that are now threatened as never before, and of which the red squirrel is both the symbol and, by its presence, the benchmark."

Responding to Prince Charles' words of support, a Trustee of RSST, Stephen Trotter said: "I know all the many volunteers involved in red squirrel conservation across the UK will be delighted, inspired and grateful to read these warm words of thanks and encouragement from His Royal Highness.

"The RSST is very lucky and proud to have HRH as our Patron, and there is no doubt that his continued support helps direct a spotlight on this important work. It is truly heartening to read of the passion and fondness in which this most iconic species is held."