Martin Runchman reflects on a recent visit to Paxton Pits.
After several days of heavy rain and overcast skies in June it was good to be able to make a visit to PPPNR, with the thought of an update on our summer visitors, the Terns, in my mind.
Having parked the car almost immediately I came across a whole other set of visitors, all hard at work.
A Cooperative Retail Management team were busy in the VC garden. A new flower bed was being built and a fresh coat of paint on the outside walls. Mark Bellamy the regional manager told me that 16 managers from around the local area including Little Paxton were working with the reserve head ranger, Matt Hall, on various jobs.
I quickly moved on as a hammer and nails appeared to be heading in my direction
With these visitors hard at work, and with gratitude for their hard work on my mind, I then encountered an even more joyful sight. Our Wildlife Trust colleagues had some dozen and more 4-5 year olds all with high vis jackets enjoying a nature play scheme. This sight just made me smile. A really great event and introducing children to the wonders of nature.
A few moments later a group of some 10 walkers were just beginning their walk which would take them right round the reserve.
So there we have it – an inspirational set of activities, and all taking place at our Reserve.
I did promise a Tern Raft update – and great news as some 30 plus Terns have been seen “sitting”, hopefully brooding eggs or young, and yes – several young chicks have also been seen. Fingers crossed for a bumper year. And thanks to all the Kingfisher Lottery Players for your support which makes our installation and maintenance of the tern rafts possible.