Bridestones Rewilded - YES's support of the restoration of local peatlands Oct 23, 2025

A call to action

Last year, YES received a letter from a local Community Interest Company (CIC) seeking partners and sponsorships to help protect and restore one of Calderdale’s natural spaces - Bridestones. The message was clear: climate change and biodiversity loss are global issues, but the solutions can - and must - start locally. We were immediately drawn to their mission and values, which closely align with our own commitment to sustainability and community wellbeing.

A vision for nature and people

Bridestones Rewilded is a not-for-profit CIC driven by a deep love for nature and a passionate belief that everyone, regardless of background, should be able to enjoy and benefit from the natural world. Their vision is both ambitious and inspiring: to restore the Bridestones peat bog for nature and for people. Through rewilding efforts, they aim to enhance biodiversity, bring wildlife back to the area and create opportunities for education, volunteering and meaningful connection with the land.

What is the importance of Peatlands?

Peatlands are among the most powerful natural tools we have in the fight against climate change. Though they cover just 3% of the Earth’s surface, they store twice as much carbon as all the world’s forests combined. Peat acts as a major carbon sink and plays a vital role in flood control. Unfortunately, the Bridestones peat bog has been degraded over decades due to land drainage for intensive agriculture. Bridestones Rewilded is working to reverse this damage by re-wetting the land, locking in carbon and recreating a rich, wild landscape that supports a diverse range of species.

A local site of historical cultural significance

But Bridestones isn’t just ecologically important - it’s culturally significant too. The site is home to the Bride and Groom stones, sacred standing stones that have been used in ancient wedding traditions and remain a beloved landmark in the area. Restoring this space means preserving not only its environmental value but also its historical and spiritual legacy.

Earlier this year, members of Team YES visited the site and met with the passionate individuals behind Bridestones Rewilded. We learned first hand about the importance of the initiative, the science behind peatland restoration and the community impact of their work. It was a windy day, but the energy and enthusiasm on site were undeniable.

YES’s contribution

We’re proud to have contributed £500 to sponsor a 625 square metre plot of land -supporting the rewilding efforts and helping to ensure that Bridestones can thrive once again. This donation is part of our broader mission to reduce carbon emissions and invest in projects that make a tangible difference to both people and the planet.

Bridestones Rewilded is supported by Calderdale Council, local businesses and community members who believe in the power of nature to heal, inspire, and unite. At YES, we’re honoured to stand alongside them in this journey.

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