As lockdown eases it’s time to adapt to the ‘new different’, We’re urging people to get off the sofa and explore our patch .It’s time to log off Netflix and shed the dreaded ‘corona stone’! We want to help reveal our rich heritage, unique landscape, wonderful wildlife and friendly communities to the people of Brightwater and beyond.
Members of the Lanchester Wildlife group have been amongst those who’ve jumped online and held their first official get together in over 4 months. With the help of Daf Jones, our very own NEPO (Natural Environment & Access projects officer), the nature lovers logged on and shared their passion for the great outdoors from behind their screens.
Using Zoom technology and their enthusiasm for the environment, together they discussed some of the great things happening in the area. Daf discussed how our team of volunteers and partners are managing the woodland in Fishburn Woods to improve access, and work is already underway for creating our brand-new nature reserve, Bishops Fen, just to the north of Hardwick Park.
He also spoke about all of the hard work that’s been done to raise the water quality through a range of activities along the River Skerne. Did you know that trout, otters and water voles are all returning to the Skerne?!
Anne Kelly, Lanchester Wildlife Group said “The introduction to Brightwater was fantastic and has already encouraged many of the members to go out and explore. I was particularly interested to hear about all of the exciting improvements to the watercourse. The improved access in areas will make wildlife watching much easier. This was our first official Zoom meeting with an outside speaker since lockdown, it’s a great way to keep the group connected as many of the members are still shielding. We all have internet access except for one member, who sat in another member’s garden on their iPad for this meeting. She has since enjoyed the ‘luxury’ of a deckchair in the Utility room, no holds barred on hospitality during Covid!
Dafydd Jones said “ Covid-19 has without a doubt been a very strange time for us all but we’re all in this together and we’ve been working hard to keep our communities connected. One of the positive effects from this pandemic is our local communities have rediscovered nature and all of the beautiful outdoor spaces we have right on our doorstep. We’ve been really impressed with the terrific work of organisations like the Lanchester Wildlife Group, their passion for wildlife and love of nature is vital to help improve and protect our local environment.
Have a little mooch around the website to find out how we can help you Discover Brightwater!
