For our third talk in the 2022–2023 programme SoFA welcomed Andy Rowett, who gave an interesting and informative presentation on Brockholes, a nature reserve on the site of a former quarry near Preston.

The Lancashire Wildlife Trust (LWT) began the redevelopment of the disused quarry in 2007, following the transfer of land from the quarry to the WLT, it was formerly opened in 2011. The newly developed site became known as ‘Brockholes Nature Reserve’, an area of lakes, meadow and woodland.

LWT starting with a small group of like-minded people interested in wildlife and fauna, the site now has over 30,000 members and is the biggest voluntary conservation area in the North-West.

Brockholes has become a popular site, with its iconic floating visitor centre, and popular hides, for both families and school parties.

Conservation and habitat management remain the priorities to encourage birds and wildlife over the 20,000 acre site. A boardwalk takes visitors through the reed beds which attracts insects and wild birds, including the Reed Warbler, and Sedge Warblers, other winged visitors include Avocets, Chiffchaff, Lapwings and Sand Martins.

Butterflies, moths and badgers also inhabit the site, there is clearly something for everybody. Andy spoke of the site with such enthusiasm that I suspect many of our members in the audience will be making a note to visit this fascinating site in the not too distant future.

LWT are also involved with saving Sefton’s squirrel population. An orphaned baby squirrel, named Ainsley, was recently given round the clock care until he could be returned to the wild. It is very encouraging to know that our local squirrels’ welfare is being looked after by multi agency conservation groups.

The November speaker meeting was the last one of 2022. Our next event is our Coffee Morning on 14 January 2023.

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Article provided by Edwina Alcock, with thanks.