Hello and welcome to the first Active in Nature blog post!

We are now coming to the end of our first summer of Active in Nature activities at Rainham Marshes. For those who haven't heard of this scheme, Active in Nature is a partnership project funded by Sport England. We are piloting a series of activities from two RSPB nature reserves: Strumpshaw Fen and Rainham Marshes! The aim of the project is to encourage a healthy, active lifestyle and reconnect people wildlife and our nature reserves through a range of outdoor activities. Here at the marshes we are currently offering cycle hire, guided cycle rides, a running group, bouldering, slacklining, yoga and trail activities such as orienteering. We have been working with various local community groups including cubs, brownies and youth groups, providing events and challenges to engage young people with new, exciting activities in their local community and the wonderful wildlife you can see outdoors! We also offer regular events for everyone to join in at the reserve - no matter your age or ability - yes, that is calling all adults to come and have a go on our slack line (a mini tightrope walk) and see if you can beat our record balance time of 44 seconds on one foot! Check out our events page on our website for all information about upcoming events and activities. http://www.rspb.org.uk/discoverandenjoynature/seenature/reserves/guide/r/rainhammarshes/events.aspx

Today saw our record number of bike hires with 21 bikes going out over the course of the day- absolutely fantastic! Everyone came back with smiling faces and wonderful stories of their adventures. This past year has seen free hire available for local residents of Havering and Thurrock due to some very kind donations from local family funders. Due to the success of the cycle scheme, this funding period has now ended and we are starting a new pricing structure. As of Monday 21st August cycle hire prices will be:

Full Day: £10 non members, £8 RSPB members                                         Half Day (up to 4 hours): £5 non members, £4 non members

With a few weeks left of the summer holidays, come out and try something new at Rainham Marshes - discover your adventurous side and a whole host of wildlife along the way! 

Bye for now!  

Jen (Active in Nature Development Officer)