A warm thank you

Most of the goings-on on the reserve that I talk about in this blog couldn't happen without the help of volunteers.

Creating the new willow screen next to the hide, putting on an event, running the children's Wildlife Explorers club, demonstrating wildlife-friendly gardening or keeping our trails and infrastructure safe and well-maintained...all this depends on the generosity, expertise and enthusiasm of many people who aren't paid a penny for their help.

About twice a year we get together to say thank you in person and celebrate what we've achieved together. This week it was time for our festive winter gathering, usually a chilly affair given the time of year and 'rustic' level of facilities on the local reserves, but this fantastic roaring fire warmed us up nicely after a lovely walk round RSPB Fowlmere guided by site manager Doug.

Highlights included a young barn owl peering out of its nestbox at us, close-up views of trout in the crystal-clear chalk stream, and some lovely roe deer spotted at the edge of the reeds from the tower hide. Then back to start the fire and watch dusk fall over mulled wine, hot chocolate and much marshmallow-toasting.

Thanks again from the whole team, especially to those who couldn't make it. It's a pleasure to be part of such a great community working to make sure nature has a home in our local patch.

P.S. If you're interested in becoming a volunteer, do have a look here where we advertise all roles we're particularly looking for help with - it's almost time for New Year's resolutions and new faces are always welcome!