Broadway wildlife spot needs volunteers

Buy photos » Volunteers are needed to help manage Broadway Gravel Pit nature reserve. (s)

AN APPEAL has been made for volunteers to help manage a small wetland nature reserve in Broadway.

Worcestershire Wildlife Trust wants people to come along to its taster day next Wednesday (January 25) at Broadway Gravel Pit nature reserve to find out more.

Anna Bunney, the Trust's volunteer co-ordinator, said the reserve flooded seasonally which brought plenty of wildlife to the area.

"It features open water, scrub and carr woodland – it’s been recolonised by plenty of birds, plants and animals since being used for gravel extraction," she said.

"The taster day will give participants the chance to get involved with hands-on management such as cutting down selected trees and burning the debris."

Volunteers on the day will also be given a tour of the reserve and will learn about the management techniques used at the pit which is owned by Wychavon District Council and leased to the Wildlife Trust.

It became a nature reserve following a successful campaign to prevent the site becoming a lorry park. It now attracts birds like chiffchaffs, cuckoos, bullfinches and yellowhammers along with dragonflies, butterflies and a wide range of other invertebrates.

Ms Bunney said volunteers were vital to the Trust.

"Without our 450 volunteers across the county we couldn’t do the range of work we do," she added.

"From practical conservation to education volunteering, volunteer are involved with all aspects of our work.

“It’s not just us that benefit, however, there can be enormous benefits for the volunteers too. It’s a chance to meet new people and learn new skills as well providing the opportunity to keep fit in the great outdoors."

The taster day at Broadway Gravel Pit takes place between 10am and 3pm. Anyone interested should contact Anna to book their free place on 01905 754919 or email anna@worcestershirewildlifetrust.org

No previous experience is necessary and all tools and instruction will be provided. Participants should wear suitable clothing and sturdy footwear and bring a packed lunch.