There is now just over a month and a half to go until our annual Race For Wildlife. It's now over to Emma, one of our Wardens, to tell you more about the event:
"RSPB Lakenheath Fen is a wonderful wetland nature reserve on the Norfolk Suffolk border, created from carrot fields over twenty years ago, it has been transformed into a haven for wildlife.
On Sunday 15 October, you’ll have the chance to explore the reserve with a difference and raise money for the RSPB at the same time, all by taking part in our Race for Wildlife.
So, what’s it all about? Two multi- terrain courses of five and ten kilometres will take participants on a scenic tour of the reserve and provide a perfect wildlife spotting opportunity as you go. Perhaps a chance to see a marsh harrier soaring in the sky or a bearded tit lurking in the reedbeds.
A behind the scenes view of the reserve will be given to those choosing the 10km course as the route takes in areas of the reserve not normally open to visitors. As you make your way around, RSPB staff and volunteers will be marshalling both courses, providing words of encouragement or even pointing out wildlife if the chance arises!
You’ll cross the finish line close to the visitor centre, to the cheers of spectators, where you’ll be awarded with a well-earned medal and goody bag.
If an extra incentive is needed, for the lucky top three finishers in each race, handcrafted medals will be awarded as you race across the line.
For that vital post-race energy boost, homemade cakes will also be on sale in the visitor centre, which are obviously, equally important for those supporting the runners!
Now you’ve been persuaded to sign up, here’s all the important information! Race entry is £12 adults and £6 for under 16’s. All under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult. The event will be timed and the race results will be published on the RSPB Lakenheath Fen website a couple of days after the event. Please register in advance via: www.wegottickets.com/lakenheath;
All the money raised will go directly towards the management of the reserve, ensuring we can continue to give wildlife like cranes, bitterns and otters the chance to thrive here at Lakenheath Fen in the future.
Want to raise even more money for the reserve and help us give nature an even bigger helping hand? Why not get your friends and family to sponsor you? If you would like a sponsorship form, please contact the reserve office by ringing 01842 863400 or e-mailing: lakenheath@rspb.org.uk
Alternatively, you can set up a JustGiving page to raise money for the RSPB as a result of taking part in the event. Please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/; for more information about how to do this.
Last year’s event was a sell out, so book your place quickly, persuade your friends and family to take part and join us for what promises to be one of the highlights of the Lakenheath Fen calendar."
Just before we leave you with some photos of the event from previous years:
Image credits: Dave Rogers
We hope to see you on the day!