The South Downs National Park, the newest national park in the UK, is now in full operation.

Effective from today (April 1st), the South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) has taken on legal powers and will be responsible for planning within the park.

Stretching over 600 square miles across Sussex and Hampshire, the park encompasses ancient woodland, open heaths and features the chalky white cliffs at Beachy Head.

Walkers will be interested in the South Downs Way, which spans the entire length of the park.

It hosts a biodiversity rich in variety, ranging from beech and oak trees, rare orchids, butterflies, larks and partridge.

Margaret Paren, chair of the SDNPA, said: "This is a long-awaited and historic day for everyone who loves the South Downs."

"As the new authority, we have statutory purposes and socio-economic duties which we will be working hard to fulfil. By working together, we can all protect and enhance the National Park for residents and visitors today and future generations to come."

South Downs now brings the number of national parks in the UK to 15. The Peak District, established in 1951, claims to be the first ever.