Essex Wildlife Trust, Abbotts Hall Farm, Gt Wigborough, Colchester, Essex CO5 7RZ
Essex Wildlife Trust Signs up its 12th Platinum Corporate Member
31 July 2006
PRESS RELEASE
Essex Wildlife Trust has cause for celebration, as it has signed up its 12th Platinum Corporate member – Fortis Bank, Chelmsford.
Fortis Bank is an international financial services provider engaged in banking and insurance. Fortis ranks among the twenty largest financial institutions in Europe.
There are currently 444 Corporate members of Essex Wildlife Trust. All of these companies/organisations support the Trust through the membership scheme. Essex Wildlife Trust runs four levels – Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze. Since the Corporate membership scheme was established 15 years ago, it has moved from strength-to-strength.
All of the Corporate members of Essex Wildife Trust care about the environment and the wildlife of Essex. They make a valuable contribution to the Trust and their support is enormous, and greatly appreciated.
The benefits of Corporate membership are enormous. Use of the Trust logo and a corporate directory giving details of members within the scheme. Regular corporate events are held, including designated business networking, access to training programmes and 3 copies of Businesswise magazine twice a year together with the Essex Wildlife Magazine three times a year.
Grant Maton, District Corporate Officer for Essex Wildlife Trust, said:
“Essex Wildlife Trust are delighted that Fortis Bank have decided to join us as our 12th Corporate Member – we have a wide range of corporate members throughout Essex, all of whom are contributing to Protecting Essex Wildlife for the Future.”
END
Notes to Editors:
1) Essex Wildlife Trust has 444 Corporate Members across Essex. They have joined either the Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze scheme.
2) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 29,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves, 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
3) Fortis Bank in the UK, as part of an established network of 3000 Business Centres and Branches across Europe, provides specialist finance solutions to large corporate, institutional and mid-sized companies such as: trade finance, treasury services, diverse asset finance, global cash and liquidity management, acquisition and mezzanine finance, syndications and structured finance.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348.
Grant Maton, District Corporate Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 07887 763678.
Essex Wildlife Trust has cause for celebration, as it has signed up its 12th Platinum Corporate member – Fortis Bank, Chelmsford.
Fortis Bank is an international financial services provider engaged in banking and insurance. Fortis ranks among the twenty largest financial institutions in Europe.
There are currently 444 Corporate members of Essex Wildlife Trust. All of these companies/organisations support the Trust through the membership scheme. Essex Wildlife Trust runs four levels – Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze. Since the Corporate membership scheme was established 15 years ago, it has moved from strength-to-strength.
All of the Corporate members of Essex Wildife Trust care about the environment and the wildlife of Essex. They make a valuable contribution to the Trust and their support is enormous, and greatly appreciated.
The benefits of Corporate membership are enormous. Use of the Trust logo and a corporate directory giving details of members within the scheme. Regular corporate events are held, including designated business networking, access to training programmes and 3 copies of Businesswise magazine twice a year together with the Essex Wildlife Magazine three times a year.
Grant Maton, District Corporate Officer for Essex Wildlife Trust, said:
“Essex Wildlife Trust are delighted that Fortis Bank have decided to join us as our 12th Corporate Member – we have a wide range of corporate members throughout Essex, all of whom are contributing to Protecting Essex Wildlife for the Future.”
END
Notes to Editors:
1) Essex Wildlife Trust has 444 Corporate Members across Essex. They have joined either the Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze scheme.
2) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 29,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves, 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
3) Fortis Bank in the UK, as part of an established network of 3000 Business Centres and Branches across Europe, provides specialist finance solutions to large corporate, institutional and mid-sized companies such as: trade finance, treasury services, diverse asset finance, global cash and liquidity management, acquisition and mezzanine finance, syndications and structured finance.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348.
Grant Maton, District Corporate Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 07887 763678.
Abbotts Hall Farm, Farming for Wildlife, People and Profit - Now Producing Wild Bird Food Mix
17 July 2006
PRESS RELEASE
Abbotts Hall Farm, the head office of Essex Wildlife Trust and the Trust’s 700 acre working farm is now producing its own bird seed mix.
The bird seed mix is grown entirely at Abbotts Hall Farm and contains the farms Conservation Grade oats, kibbled wheat, rapeseed, black sunflower seeds, white millet and kibbled maize.
Nothing within the bird food mix has been imported or bought in – making this a product with low associated “food miles”.
Abbotts Hall Farm continues to be a contemporary farm. Alongside the cereal crops, the farm now produces Conservation Grade oats, it has converted some land to organic production and has introduced grazing for sheep.
Changes have been made to the farm to improve the habitat for wildlife including hedge planting and restoring. Field margins have been created and beetlebanks established. This is supporting species such as yellowhammer, grey partridge, turtle dove, skylark and brown hare.
Part of the farm’s former arable land has been reverted to saltmarsh, up to 60% of Essex marshes have been eroded by the sea in the last 20 years. The result of this has been the creation of new marshes, vitally important for wildlife and as fish nurseries. Samphire is also harvested and sold from Abbotts Hall Farm.
Since the Trust purchased the farm in 1999, many changes have taken place to benefit wildlife and people. Yet the farm is still profit making and contributes to Essex Wildlife Trust’s work for the wildlife of Essex.
The farm is open for visitors, Monday – Friday, 9am-5pm. Visitors can enjoy wonderful walks around the farm, 3 bird hides, estuary and lake views and there are wonderful gardens to be enjoyed by visitors.
The Wild Bird Food Mix is sold under the Essex Harvest name and available at Abbotts Hall Farm and within all our Visitor Centres. The bags cost £2.00 each and a sack costs £10.00 each.
Dave Smart, Senior Farm Warden, Essex Wildlife Trust said:
“We have worked very hard to improve the farm for wildlife, whilst at the same time, continuing to farm in a contemporary way. The Essex Harvest, Wild Bird Food Mix is a fantastic way to feed the birds as all the ingredients are sourced from the farm itself and garden birds benefit from regular feeding and the food provides a well-balanced diet”.
END
1) Abbotts Hall Farm is open for visitors, Monday to Friday, 9am –5pm. There are some wonderful walks around the farm and leading to the estuary. Three bird hides, one overlooking the lake and the other the estuary. The gardens at Abotts Hall are also beautiful and available for visitors to enjoy.
2) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 29,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves, 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348
Andy May, Conservation Manager, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862980 or mobile 07881 815985.
Abbotts Hall Farm, the head office of Essex Wildlife Trust and the Trust’s 700 acre working farm is now producing its own bird seed mix.
The bird seed mix is grown entirely at Abbotts Hall Farm and contains the farms Conservation Grade oats, kibbled wheat, rapeseed, black sunflower seeds, white millet and kibbled maize.
Nothing within the bird food mix has been imported or bought in – making this a product with low associated “food miles”.
Abbotts Hall Farm continues to be a contemporary farm. Alongside the cereal crops, the farm now produces Conservation Grade oats, it has converted some land to organic production and has introduced grazing for sheep.
Changes have been made to the farm to improve the habitat for wildlife including hedge planting and restoring. Field margins have been created and beetlebanks established. This is supporting species such as yellowhammer, grey partridge, turtle dove, skylark and brown hare.
Part of the farm’s former arable land has been reverted to saltmarsh, up to 60% of Essex marshes have been eroded by the sea in the last 20 years. The result of this has been the creation of new marshes, vitally important for wildlife and as fish nurseries. Samphire is also harvested and sold from Abbotts Hall Farm.
Since the Trust purchased the farm in 1999, many changes have taken place to benefit wildlife and people. Yet the farm is still profit making and contributes to Essex Wildlife Trust’s work for the wildlife of Essex.
The farm is open for visitors, Monday – Friday, 9am-5pm. Visitors can enjoy wonderful walks around the farm, 3 bird hides, estuary and lake views and there are wonderful gardens to be enjoyed by visitors.
The Wild Bird Food Mix is sold under the Essex Harvest name and available at Abbotts Hall Farm and within all our Visitor Centres. The bags cost £2.00 each and a sack costs £10.00 each.
Dave Smart, Senior Farm Warden, Essex Wildlife Trust said:
“We have worked very hard to improve the farm for wildlife, whilst at the same time, continuing to farm in a contemporary way. The Essex Harvest, Wild Bird Food Mix is a fantastic way to feed the birds as all the ingredients are sourced from the farm itself and garden birds benefit from regular feeding and the food provides a well-balanced diet”.
END
1) Abbotts Hall Farm is open for visitors, Monday to Friday, 9am –5pm. There are some wonderful walks around the farm and leading to the estuary. Three bird hides, one overlooking the lake and the other the estuary. The gardens at Abotts Hall are also beautiful and available for visitors to enjoy.
2) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 29,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves, 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348
Andy May, Conservation Manager, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862980 or mobile 07881 815985.
Fantastic Open Air Concert of Light Music
10 July 2006
PRESS RELEASE
On Saturday 22nd July, on the lawn of Abbotts Hall Farm, Great Wigborough, Colchester, the Annual Open Air Concert of Light Music will be held. This is the third year that the Annual Open Air Concert has been held at Abbotts Hall Farm in aid of Essex Wildlife Trust.
This is a wonderful atmospheric event, on a beautiful summer’s evening set in the stunning gardens of Abbotts Hall Farm, the gates are open from 6.00pm (an hour before the start) so visitors can partake in a picnic and get themselves seated before the concert at 7pm.
The Bocking Concert Brass Band will be playing a repertoire of light music including music from musicals and shows.
As the sun goes down the garden is lit up by fairy lights, whilst visitors enjoy light and relaxing music.
Visitors need to bring their own picnic and eat it in the stunning gardens, strawberries and cream are on sale during the evening, hot drinks are available and a raffle in aid of Essex Wildlife Trust will be held.
Tickets cost £5.00 each prior to the day and are £6.00 on the gate. To order tickets please phone 01621 862973 or email colchesterwt@aol.com.
END
1) The Open Air Concern of Light Music will be held on Saturday 22nd July, at Abbotts Hall Farm, Great Wigborough, Colchester, CO5 7RZ. Gates are open from 6.00pm and the concert starts at 7.00pm.
2) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 29,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves, 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348 OR
Daphne Davis, Conservation Secretary, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862973.
On Saturday 22nd July, on the lawn of Abbotts Hall Farm, Great Wigborough, Colchester, the Annual Open Air Concert of Light Music will be held. This is the third year that the Annual Open Air Concert has been held at Abbotts Hall Farm in aid of Essex Wildlife Trust.
This is a wonderful atmospheric event, on a beautiful summer’s evening set in the stunning gardens of Abbotts Hall Farm, the gates are open from 6.00pm (an hour before the start) so visitors can partake in a picnic and get themselves seated before the concert at 7pm.
The Bocking Concert Brass Band will be playing a repertoire of light music including music from musicals and shows.
As the sun goes down the garden is lit up by fairy lights, whilst visitors enjoy light and relaxing music.
Visitors need to bring their own picnic and eat it in the stunning gardens, strawberries and cream are on sale during the evening, hot drinks are available and a raffle in aid of Essex Wildlife Trust will be held.
Tickets cost £5.00 each prior to the day and are £6.00 on the gate. To order tickets please phone 01621 862973 or email colchesterwt@aol.com.
END
1) The Open Air Concern of Light Music will be held on Saturday 22nd July, at Abbotts Hall Farm, Great Wigborough, Colchester, CO5 7RZ. Gates are open from 6.00pm and the concert starts at 7.00pm.
2) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 29,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves, 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348 OR
Daphne Davis, Conservation Secretary, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862973.
A Fantastic Exhibition - Over 100 Local Artists Exhibiting at Thorndon Countryside Centre
27 June 2006
PRESS RELEASE
The Annual Art Exhibition at Thorndon Countryside Centre is due to take place from 8th-16th July 2006. There will be 350 works of art on display and all are for sale.
This is the 14th Annual Exhibition organised for Essex Wildlife Trust and it has gained an excellent reputation for the quality and standard of entries. Featuring pictures from artists from all over Essex, the exhibition features a whole range of beautiful pictures including wildlife, landscapes, stills, flowers, boats, seascapes and ‘foreign parts’.
The Art Exhibition is held every year in aid of Essex Wildlife Trust, with the local Trust Group from Brentwood & Billericay organising the Event.
Thorndon Countryside Centre is set amongst wonderful woodland, meadows and ponds in the country park. It is the opportunity for people to enjoy some stunning paintings, whilst also having the opportunity to take a walk around the country park and enjoy the refreshments available at the Countryside Centre.
John Hall, Director of Essex Wildlife Trust said:
“The Annual Art Exhibition at Thorndon Countryside Centre is becoming more popular every year. It is a great opportunity for people to enjoy and buy work by local artists whilst at the same time supporting Essex Wildlife Trust. We are hoping as many people as possible come along and enjoy the event.”
The art exhibition will be at Thorndon Countryside Centre, from July 8th – 16th, 10am to 5pm daily. Prices at the Exhibition range from £25 - £1,100.
END
1) There will be photo opportunities at the Preview Evening on Friday 7th July 7.30-9.30pm.
2) Entrance is free. The Exhibition will be open from July 8th to16th, 10.00am – 5.00pm, daily, at Thorndon Countryside Centre, The Avenue, Brentwood.
3) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves, 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348.
Paula Closs, Secretary, Brentwood & Billericay Group of the Essex Wildlife Trust on 01277 355541.
The Annual Art Exhibition at Thorndon Countryside Centre is due to take place from 8th-16th July 2006. There will be 350 works of art on display and all are for sale.
This is the 14th Annual Exhibition organised for Essex Wildlife Trust and it has gained an excellent reputation for the quality and standard of entries. Featuring pictures from artists from all over Essex, the exhibition features a whole range of beautiful pictures including wildlife, landscapes, stills, flowers, boats, seascapes and ‘foreign parts’.
The Art Exhibition is held every year in aid of Essex Wildlife Trust, with the local Trust Group from Brentwood & Billericay organising the Event.
Thorndon Countryside Centre is set amongst wonderful woodland, meadows and ponds in the country park. It is the opportunity for people to enjoy some stunning paintings, whilst also having the opportunity to take a walk around the country park and enjoy the refreshments available at the Countryside Centre.
John Hall, Director of Essex Wildlife Trust said:
“The Annual Art Exhibition at Thorndon Countryside Centre is becoming more popular every year. It is a great opportunity for people to enjoy and buy work by local artists whilst at the same time supporting Essex Wildlife Trust. We are hoping as many people as possible come along and enjoy the event.”
The art exhibition will be at Thorndon Countryside Centre, from July 8th – 16th, 10am to 5pm daily. Prices at the Exhibition range from £25 - £1,100.
END
1) There will be photo opportunities at the Preview Evening on Friday 7th July 7.30-9.30pm.
2) Entrance is free. The Exhibition will be open from July 8th to16th, 10.00am – 5.00pm, daily, at Thorndon Countryside Centre, The Avenue, Brentwood.
3) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves, 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348.
Paula Closs, Secretary, Brentwood & Billericay Group of the Essex Wildlife Trust on 01277 355541.
Experience an Oasis of Wildlife at Spencers, Home of Lady Butler and the Courtauld Family
19 June 2006
PRESS RELEASE
Lady Butler and the Courtauld family are offering everyone the opportunity to enjoy their family estate, Spencers at Great Yeldham, in aid of Essex Wildlife Trust on Sunday 2 July 2006.
This is the second year that Spencers has been opened for Essex Wildlife Trust and this year the event is expected to attract even more visitors. The estate is stunning and there is a richness of wildlife for all to see.
There are beautiful, extensive ornamental gardens and a wide range of flowers and plants that attract much insect life, there are areas of woodland, tranquil meadows and parkland around the house where cattle graze.
There will be wildlife walks on the estate led by experts from Essex Wildlife Trust, looking at a variety of wildlife. Visitors will be free to explore and enjoy the walled garden and partake in a cream tea. Plants will also be on sale that have been grown on the Estate.
Mark Iley, Biodiversity Project Officer, Essex Biodiversity Project said:
“The Spencer’s estate is charming, I have had the pleasure of visiting it on a number of occasions. The annual open day gives people the opportunity to look around and appreciate the wildlife and beauty. We are very grateful to the Courtauld family.”
The estate will be open from 10.30am until 4.30pm on Sunday 2 July 2006. Essex Wildlife Trust will ask for a donation of £3.00 per person on the day.
END
Notes to Editors
1) There will be great photo opportunities throughout the day and images of the Estate are available from Michele Kench below.
2) The Estate will be open from 10.30am – 4.30pm on Sunday 2 July 2006. It is situated off Tilbury Rd, Great Yeldham.
3) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves, 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348.
Alan Shearring, Fundraising Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862989 or mobile 07725 604072.
Lady Butler and the Courtauld family are offering everyone the opportunity to enjoy their family estate, Spencers at Great Yeldham, in aid of Essex Wildlife Trust on Sunday 2 July 2006.
This is the second year that Spencers has been opened for Essex Wildlife Trust and this year the event is expected to attract even more visitors. The estate is stunning and there is a richness of wildlife for all to see.
There are beautiful, extensive ornamental gardens and a wide range of flowers and plants that attract much insect life, there are areas of woodland, tranquil meadows and parkland around the house where cattle graze.
There will be wildlife walks on the estate led by experts from Essex Wildlife Trust, looking at a variety of wildlife. Visitors will be free to explore and enjoy the walled garden and partake in a cream tea. Plants will also be on sale that have been grown on the Estate.
Mark Iley, Biodiversity Project Officer, Essex Biodiversity Project said:
“The Spencer’s estate is charming, I have had the pleasure of visiting it on a number of occasions. The annual open day gives people the opportunity to look around and appreciate the wildlife and beauty. We are very grateful to the Courtauld family.”
The estate will be open from 10.30am until 4.30pm on Sunday 2 July 2006. Essex Wildlife Trust will ask for a donation of £3.00 per person on the day.
END
Notes to Editors
1) There will be great photo opportunities throughout the day and images of the Estate are available from Michele Kench below.
2) The Estate will be open from 10.30am – 4.30pm on Sunday 2 July 2006. It is situated off Tilbury Rd, Great Yeldham.
3) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves, 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348.
Alan Shearring, Fundraising Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862989 or mobile 07725 604072.
Success for Avocet Chicks on Two Tree Island - Due to Community Effort
23 May 2006
PRESS RELEASE
The patter of tiny feet can be heard (if you listen very hard) on Two Tree Island. Essex Wildlife Trust are delighted to report that 13 Avocet chicks have hatched to date and can be seen running about and swimming.
The success of these chicks hatching has been a real community effort involving Essex Wildlife Trust, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, over 70 local volunteers and tremendous support from Southend Police. After two years of eggs mysteriously disappearing, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council asked Essex Wildlife Trust this year to set up a volunteer surveillance programme for the nests and this has already achieved a successful outcome.
Over 70 volunteers are still providing round-the-clock protection of further nests on the site and will continue to do so for the next vital weeks ahead. The volunteers have been covering 4 sessions a day, every day, these include morning, afternoon, evening and night time sessions. Many people have agreed to do more than one session and Essex Wildlife Trust are extremely grateful to them for protecting these wonderful birds.
At present the island also has a number of other Avocets sitting on nests.
The Avocet is a striking coastal bird which affords special protection at all times, it is a black and white wader with a long up-curved black beak. They are found in the mainly coastal areas of Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk and Kent.
Proud Essex Wildlife Trust, Volunteer Warden, Mark Bridges said:
“We are delighted with 13 chicks and are expecting significantly more. There are only 8 nesting sites in the county and this is very exciting.
We could not have achieved this without our strong volunteer support, over 70 local people are giving up their time to monitor the nesting sites, whilst Essex Police, particularly Acting Inspector, Paul Saunders and Wildlife Crime Officer, Pc Carla Rozee have been incredibly supportive.”
Cllr Holland, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Sport and Amenity for Southend-on-Sea Borough Council said:
“We are very pleased with the results of the partnership between Essex Wildlife Trust and Southend Borough Council. Everyone has worked very hard to help the Avocets on Two Tree Island this year and these efforts seem to have paid off.
I would like to thank all the volunteers who have spent literally hours of their own time watching these birds.”
Two Tree Island is in fact a hive of activity at the moment and has Mallard chicks, Shellduck chicks, Canada Geese chicks and lots of birds currently sitting on nests.
The Island is open to visitors and it is really important that people are aware of the nesting birds and their chicks and make every effort to ensure they are not disturbed, while enjoying them.
END
Notes to Editors:
1) The Avocet is listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which affords special protection at all times. It is an offence to take, injure or kill an avocet or take, damage or destroy its nest, eggs or young. It is an offence to intentionally or wrecklessly disturb the birds at or close to their nest during the breeding season. Violation of the law can attract fines of up to £5,000 per offence and/or a prison sentence of up to 6 months.
2) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348
Claire Cadman, Thames Gateway Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01268 711776 or mobile 07899 882651
The patter of tiny feet can be heard (if you listen very hard) on Two Tree Island. Essex Wildlife Trust are delighted to report that 13 Avocet chicks have hatched to date and can be seen running about and swimming.
The success of these chicks hatching has been a real community effort involving Essex Wildlife Trust, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, over 70 local volunteers and tremendous support from Southend Police. After two years of eggs mysteriously disappearing, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council asked Essex Wildlife Trust this year to set up a volunteer surveillance programme for the nests and this has already achieved a successful outcome.
Over 70 volunteers are still providing round-the-clock protection of further nests on the site and will continue to do so for the next vital weeks ahead. The volunteers have been covering 4 sessions a day, every day, these include morning, afternoon, evening and night time sessions. Many people have agreed to do more than one session and Essex Wildlife Trust are extremely grateful to them for protecting these wonderful birds.
At present the island also has a number of other Avocets sitting on nests.
The Avocet is a striking coastal bird which affords special protection at all times, it is a black and white wader with a long up-curved black beak. They are found in the mainly coastal areas of Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk and Kent.
Proud Essex Wildlife Trust, Volunteer Warden, Mark Bridges said:
“We are delighted with 13 chicks and are expecting significantly more. There are only 8 nesting sites in the county and this is very exciting.
We could not have achieved this without our strong volunteer support, over 70 local people are giving up their time to monitor the nesting sites, whilst Essex Police, particularly Acting Inspector, Paul Saunders and Wildlife Crime Officer, Pc Carla Rozee have been incredibly supportive.”
Cllr Holland, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Sport and Amenity for Southend-on-Sea Borough Council said:
“We are very pleased with the results of the partnership between Essex Wildlife Trust and Southend Borough Council. Everyone has worked very hard to help the Avocets on Two Tree Island this year and these efforts seem to have paid off.
I would like to thank all the volunteers who have spent literally hours of their own time watching these birds.”
Two Tree Island is in fact a hive of activity at the moment and has Mallard chicks, Shellduck chicks, Canada Geese chicks and lots of birds currently sitting on nests.
The Island is open to visitors and it is really important that people are aware of the nesting birds and their chicks and make every effort to ensure they are not disturbed, while enjoying them.
END
Notes to Editors:
1) The Avocet is listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which affords special protection at all times. It is an offence to take, injure or kill an avocet or take, damage or destroy its nest, eggs or young. It is an offence to intentionally or wrecklessly disturb the birds at or close to their nest during the breeding season. Violation of the law can attract fines of up to £5,000 per offence and/or a prison sentence of up to 6 months.
2) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348
Claire Cadman, Thames Gateway Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01268 711776 or mobile 07899 882651
Celebrate Wildlife Week at the Abberton Reservoir Wildlife & Country Fair
23 May 2006
PRESS RELEASE
Essex Wildlife Trust is offering everyone the chance to get involved with wildlife during Wildlife Week, an annual programme of events to celebrate the diversity of the UK’s natural heritage and to raise awareness of conservation issues.
There are all sorts of events and activities happening from 28th May – 4th June 2006 at Essex Wildlife Trust Reserves for families, adults and children.
The really BIG event for Essex Wildlife Trust is the Abberton Reservoir Wildlife and Country Fair which will be taking place on Saturday 3 June and Sunday 4 June. This will give people the opportunity to enjoy a fantastic event, whilst supporting wildlife within the county.
For the last 3 years the Wildlife and Country Fair has been held at Abberton Reservoir and every year this event attracts more and more visitors. Last year over 1,000 people enjoyed the weekend, there really is something for everyone.
On Sunday at 10.00am the Mayor and Mayoress of Colchester, Richard and Jacqueline Gower, will be visiting the Fair to enjoy the day and offer their support to Essex Wildlife Trust.
This year on both days there will be pond dipping, minibeast hunting, face painting, badge making, bouncy castle and landrover trips around the reservoir. There will also be numerous stalls and refreshments. On Saturday visitors can also enjoy a Suffolk Punch demonstration and meet Phil’s Owls. Whilst on Sunday birds of prey will be on show.
John Hall, Director of Essex Wildlife Trust said:
“People are realising that there’s a wealth of wildlife on their doorstep and with the help of Essex Wildlife Trust, they can find out more about how they can help to improve their neighbourhood environment and protect the UK’s wildlife.
The Abberton Wildlife and Country Fair is a fantastic event that everyone can enjoy, whilst at the same time benefiting the wildlife within Essex.”
The Abberton Wildlife and Country Fair runs on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th June from 10am – 5pm.
END
Notes to Editors:
1) There will be great photo opportunities throughout both days at the Abberton Reservoir Wildlife & Country Fair.
2) Abberton Reservoir Reserve is an inspiring area, the wetland is of international importance for wildfowl, up to 40,000 ducks, swans and geese visit each year. It was Britain’s first Special Protection Area. Abberton Reservoir is located 3 miles South West of Colchester, through the village of Layer de la Haye.
3) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348.
Alan Shearring, Fundraising Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862989 or mobile 07725 604072.
Liz Huxley, Abberton Reservoir Centre Manager, Essex Wildlife Trust, on 01206 738172.
Essex Wildlife Trust is offering everyone the chance to get involved with wildlife during Wildlife Week, an annual programme of events to celebrate the diversity of the UK’s natural heritage and to raise awareness of conservation issues.
There are all sorts of events and activities happening from 28th May – 4th June 2006 at Essex Wildlife Trust Reserves for families, adults and children.
The really BIG event for Essex Wildlife Trust is the Abberton Reservoir Wildlife and Country Fair which will be taking place on Saturday 3 June and Sunday 4 June. This will give people the opportunity to enjoy a fantastic event, whilst supporting wildlife within the county.
For the last 3 years the Wildlife and Country Fair has been held at Abberton Reservoir and every year this event attracts more and more visitors. Last year over 1,000 people enjoyed the weekend, there really is something for everyone.
On Sunday at 10.00am the Mayor and Mayoress of Colchester, Richard and Jacqueline Gower, will be visiting the Fair to enjoy the day and offer their support to Essex Wildlife Trust.
This year on both days there will be pond dipping, minibeast hunting, face painting, badge making, bouncy castle and landrover trips around the reservoir. There will also be numerous stalls and refreshments. On Saturday visitors can also enjoy a Suffolk Punch demonstration and meet Phil’s Owls. Whilst on Sunday birds of prey will be on show.
John Hall, Director of Essex Wildlife Trust said:
“People are realising that there’s a wealth of wildlife on their doorstep and with the help of Essex Wildlife Trust, they can find out more about how they can help to improve their neighbourhood environment and protect the UK’s wildlife.
The Abberton Wildlife and Country Fair is a fantastic event that everyone can enjoy, whilst at the same time benefiting the wildlife within Essex.”
The Abberton Wildlife and Country Fair runs on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th June from 10am – 5pm.
END
Notes to Editors:
1) There will be great photo opportunities throughout both days at the Abberton Reservoir Wildlife & Country Fair.
2) Abberton Reservoir Reserve is an inspiring area, the wetland is of international importance for wildfowl, up to 40,000 ducks, swans and geese visit each year. It was Britain’s first Special Protection Area. Abberton Reservoir is located 3 miles South West of Colchester, through the village of Layer de la Haye.
3) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348.
Alan Shearring, Fundraising Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862989 or mobile 07725 604072.
Liz Huxley, Abberton Reservoir Centre Manager, Essex Wildlife Trust, on 01206 738172.
Fantastic Open Day at Tollesbury Wick Marshes
22 May 2006
PRESS RELEASE
Over 70 local people took the opportunity to visit Tollesbury Wick Marshes on Saturday, to see the important work that has been taking place over the last year on this Essex Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve.
Each year the people in Tollesbury and the surrounding area are invited to Tollesbury Wick Marshes to update them on the work taking place on the Reserve and the initiatives that are being incorporated to improve the habitat for wildlife.
There are 600 acres at Tollesbury Wick and this land is grazed using traditional breeds. The North Ronaldsay and Shetland sheep, and Shetland cattle are ideal for grazing the wildlife reserve at Tollesbury. ‘Ronnies’ and Shetland cattle are now endangered breeds and it is vital their unique attributes are conserved for the future.
Visitors were taken on guided walks around the farm by Jonathan Smith, Warden, Mike Sandison, Volunteer Warden and Neil Bedford, Senior Reserves Manager. Visitors were shown the sheep and cattle including 185 lambs and 7 calves which have been born so far this spring and it was a fantastic sight to see them on this rural landscape.
The walk also incorporated wildlife including the new badger sett which has been built into the red hill on the Reserve. Coastal salt-making sites from the Iron Age and Roman periods, survive as mounds of red earth, called red hills. Fragments of pottery had been dug up by the badgers in the red hill at Tollesbury.
Mike Sandison, Volunteer Warden, Tollesbury Wick said:
“It was a really successful day and I hope that all the local people who came along enjoyed it. It is really important for us to show the people who live in Tollesbury and the surrounding area the work that Essex Wildlife Trust are doing at Tollesbury Wick and how we are grazing the land to benefit the wildlife.”
Tollesbury Wick Marshes was bought by Essex Wildlife Trust in 1993. It is a wonderful area of freshwater grazing marsh, that offers a good example of farming for wildlife.
END
Notes to Editors:
1) Last Autumn, Tollesbury Wick Marshes supplied three councils with Shetland cattle. Six steers were purchased by Bournemouth Town Council to reintroduce grazing to two heaths that had not been grazed since shortly after the second World War. Also, 30 Shetland and 10 Ronnie ewes, together with two rams were sold to a rare breed farm near Dedham to establish two new breeding flocks.
2) The derelict farm building on Tollesbury Wick Marshes that has been redeveloped has won a conservation award. It was the runner up in the ‘Building Conservation’ class organised by Maldon District Council. The judges were impressed by the sympathetic redevelopment and the fact that everyone working on the project was local to Tollesbury.
3) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348.
Over 70 local people took the opportunity to visit Tollesbury Wick Marshes on Saturday, to see the important work that has been taking place over the last year on this Essex Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve.
Each year the people in Tollesbury and the surrounding area are invited to Tollesbury Wick Marshes to update them on the work taking place on the Reserve and the initiatives that are being incorporated to improve the habitat for wildlife.
There are 600 acres at Tollesbury Wick and this land is grazed using traditional breeds. The North Ronaldsay and Shetland sheep, and Shetland cattle are ideal for grazing the wildlife reserve at Tollesbury. ‘Ronnies’ and Shetland cattle are now endangered breeds and it is vital their unique attributes are conserved for the future.
Visitors were taken on guided walks around the farm by Jonathan Smith, Warden, Mike Sandison, Volunteer Warden and Neil Bedford, Senior Reserves Manager. Visitors were shown the sheep and cattle including 185 lambs and 7 calves which have been born so far this spring and it was a fantastic sight to see them on this rural landscape.
The walk also incorporated wildlife including the new badger sett which has been built into the red hill on the Reserve. Coastal salt-making sites from the Iron Age and Roman periods, survive as mounds of red earth, called red hills. Fragments of pottery had been dug up by the badgers in the red hill at Tollesbury.
Mike Sandison, Volunteer Warden, Tollesbury Wick said:
“It was a really successful day and I hope that all the local people who came along enjoyed it. It is really important for us to show the people who live in Tollesbury and the surrounding area the work that Essex Wildlife Trust are doing at Tollesbury Wick and how we are grazing the land to benefit the wildlife.”
Tollesbury Wick Marshes was bought by Essex Wildlife Trust in 1993. It is a wonderful area of freshwater grazing marsh, that offers a good example of farming for wildlife.
END
Notes to Editors:
1) Last Autumn, Tollesbury Wick Marshes supplied three councils with Shetland cattle. Six steers were purchased by Bournemouth Town Council to reintroduce grazing to two heaths that had not been grazed since shortly after the second World War. Also, 30 Shetland and 10 Ronnie ewes, together with two rams were sold to a rare breed farm near Dedham to establish two new breeding flocks.
2) The derelict farm building on Tollesbury Wick Marshes that has been redeveloped has won a conservation award. It was the runner up in the ‘Building Conservation’ class organised by Maldon District Council. The judges were impressed by the sympathetic redevelopment and the fact that everyone working on the project was local to Tollesbury.
3) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348.
New Defra Guidelines to Protect Threatened Wildlife Sites
19 May 2006
PRESS RELEASE
Willdlife sites are important local havens for wildlife and new government guidelines to support these threatened sites have been welcomed by conservationists this week.
Defra’s guidance on Local Sites Systems provides recommendations for best practice in selecting and managing local wildlife sites to consistent minimum standards.
Essex Wildlife Trust has been actively working on this area for a number of years and employs a wildlife sites officer to ensure that as many wildlife sites as possible across the county are managed to benefit wildlife.
Threatened wildlife sites offer important havens for protected species like the otter and dormouse. The otter one of the UK’s rarest large mammals has undergone a recent recovery after becoming extinct in Essex. The dormouse has become extinct in up to 7 counties in England, but Essex is one of the county’s in which dormouse levels are being recorded and monitored. Preserving the habitat of these protected species is imperative if numbers are to improve.
Essex Wildlife Trust is encouraged by the fact that official recognition and guidance has been given to wildlife sites by these new guidelines, but also calls for essential resources to help implement these recommendations.
The otter is an excellent indicator of healthy river ecosystems, because it needs well connected areas of undisturbed wetland habitat and good fish stocks. In Essex its survival is dependant on the county’s 1,500 wildlife sites with only a tiny proportion of places for wildlife receiving legal protection. The presence of dormice is indicative that woodlands and connecting hedgerows are in a favourable condition. These animals utilise a wide range of tree and shrub species and require good woodland structure so that they can navigate between the various layers of trees and shrubs.
Luke Bristow, Essex Wildlife Sites Officer said:
“Otters are returning to many of the county’s major rivers, where water quality is high and suitable undisturbed habitats exist. For example the River Stour and Colne. New sites with populations of dormice are being located through survey work and existing sites are being monitored. The Trust is working with landowners and land managers to safeguard populations through appropriate management.
We are continually seeking to work across Essex with people who own and manage wildlife sites to help ensure that these valuable refuges for wildlife are properly looked after. This vital work enables us to ensure that most of our local sites already meet the standards that Defra is recommending in the new guidance.”
END
Notes to Editors
1) Guidance on Local Sites Systems by Defra was published in April 2006 and provides recommendations for best practice in selecting and managing local wildlife sites to consistent minimum standards.
2) The otter and dormice are both included in the Essex Biodiversity Project which recognises endangered/threatened species and habitats in our County.
3) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves, 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348.
Luke Bristow, Wildlife Sites Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862988 or mobile 07738457880.
Willdlife sites are important local havens for wildlife and new government guidelines to support these threatened sites have been welcomed by conservationists this week.
Defra’s guidance on Local Sites Systems provides recommendations for best practice in selecting and managing local wildlife sites to consistent minimum standards.
Essex Wildlife Trust has been actively working on this area for a number of years and employs a wildlife sites officer to ensure that as many wildlife sites as possible across the county are managed to benefit wildlife.
Threatened wildlife sites offer important havens for protected species like the otter and dormouse. The otter one of the UK’s rarest large mammals has undergone a recent recovery after becoming extinct in Essex. The dormouse has become extinct in up to 7 counties in England, but Essex is one of the county’s in which dormouse levels are being recorded and monitored. Preserving the habitat of these protected species is imperative if numbers are to improve.
Essex Wildlife Trust is encouraged by the fact that official recognition and guidance has been given to wildlife sites by these new guidelines, but also calls for essential resources to help implement these recommendations.
The otter is an excellent indicator of healthy river ecosystems, because it needs well connected areas of undisturbed wetland habitat and good fish stocks. In Essex its survival is dependant on the county’s 1,500 wildlife sites with only a tiny proportion of places for wildlife receiving legal protection. The presence of dormice is indicative that woodlands and connecting hedgerows are in a favourable condition. These animals utilise a wide range of tree and shrub species and require good woodland structure so that they can navigate between the various layers of trees and shrubs.
Luke Bristow, Essex Wildlife Sites Officer said:
“Otters are returning to many of the county’s major rivers, where water quality is high and suitable undisturbed habitats exist. For example the River Stour and Colne. New sites with populations of dormice are being located through survey work and existing sites are being monitored. The Trust is working with landowners and land managers to safeguard populations through appropriate management.
We are continually seeking to work across Essex with people who own and manage wildlife sites to help ensure that these valuable refuges for wildlife are properly looked after. This vital work enables us to ensure that most of our local sites already meet the standards that Defra is recommending in the new guidance.”
END
Notes to Editors
1) Guidance on Local Sites Systems by Defra was published in April 2006 and provides recommendations for best practice in selecting and managing local wildlife sites to consistent minimum standards.
2) The otter and dormice are both included in the Essex Biodiversity Project which recognises endangered/threatened species and habitats in our County.
3) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves, 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348.
Luke Bristow, Wildlife Sites Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862988 or mobile 07738457880.
Essex Wildlife Trust have cause for Celebration - Membership has now reached 27,000 members
24 April 2006
PRESS RELEASE
In 1959 a select group of men and women gathered at County Hall with compelling concerns about the wildlife of Essex, and founded the Essex Naturalists’ Trust (Essex Wildlife Trust as it now is).
Since then the Trust has worked tirelessly to manage and conserve habitats for wildlife. It manages 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and runs seven Visitor Centres. The Trusts aim has always been to protect wildlife for the future.
The membership of Essex Wildlife Trust is integral to its’ success, as Essex is changing, with massive developments taking place now and in the future. The membership of the Trust helps the Trust to conserve and manage its’ sites, so future generations can still enjoy and experience its wildlife, coastline and rolling countryside.
Essex Wildlife Trust are extremely grateful for the support it gains all over the County. Gene Clifton, Membership Secretary said:
‘When I first joined Essex Wildlife Trust 25 years ago we had 11,000 members, it is fantastic that membership has now reached over 27,000 members. Our membership offer enormous support for the Trust, we are grateful to each and everyone of them”.
END
Notes to Editors:
1) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
2) Membership to the Essex Wildlife Trust means that each member is contributing to Protecting Essex Wildlife for the Future. It also includes the Essex Wildlife magazine which is published 3 times a year, 3 copies of the national magazine which is published by The Wildlife Trusts, a copy of the Events leaflet detailing the hundreds of Events across the County that are offered by the Trust each year and our Guide which gives details of all our Reserves and Visitor Centres.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348.
In 1959 a select group of men and women gathered at County Hall with compelling concerns about the wildlife of Essex, and founded the Essex Naturalists’ Trust (Essex Wildlife Trust as it now is).
Since then the Trust has worked tirelessly to manage and conserve habitats for wildlife. It manages 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and runs seven Visitor Centres. The Trusts aim has always been to protect wildlife for the future.
The membership of Essex Wildlife Trust is integral to its’ success, as Essex is changing, with massive developments taking place now and in the future. The membership of the Trust helps the Trust to conserve and manage its’ sites, so future generations can still enjoy and experience its wildlife, coastline and rolling countryside.
Essex Wildlife Trust are extremely grateful for the support it gains all over the County. Gene Clifton, Membership Secretary said:
‘When I first joined Essex Wildlife Trust 25 years ago we had 11,000 members, it is fantastic that membership has now reached over 27,000 members. Our membership offer enormous support for the Trust, we are grateful to each and everyone of them”.
END
Notes to Editors:
1) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
2) Membership to the Essex Wildlife Trust means that each member is contributing to Protecting Essex Wildlife for the Future. It also includes the Essex Wildlife magazine which is published 3 times a year, 3 copies of the national magazine which is published by The Wildlife Trusts, a copy of the Events leaflet detailing the hundreds of Events across the County that are offered by the Trust each year and our Guide which gives details of all our Reserves and Visitor Centres.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348.
Project to Avoid 'Wildlife Tragedy' for Oxlips
19 April 2006
PRESS RELEASE
One of the best-loved spring flowers in north west Essex, the Oxlip, is to be given a helping hand by the Essex Wildlife Trust and the people of Great Bardfield. Numbers of this beautiful primula have declined dramatically in the last 30 years, and the species is now listed on the county Biodiversity Action Plan as requiring special help.
Nowhere feels this loss more than Great Bardfield which has a very special relationship with the Oxlip. In the 19th century the parish boasted ‘meadows yellow with oxlips’. They were so prolific that Henry Doubleday and Charles Darwin used samples from these sites in their work on the plant. As a result it was known for years as the ‘Bardfield Oxlip’, one of very few plant names including that of an English village.
Ray Tabor, Chairman of the Essex Wildlife Trust, said:
“ Oxlips have played an important role in Bardfield’s village life for several hundred years. They are seen on the village coat of arms and the schoolchildren’s sweatshirts. A countywide survey in 2002, however, showed very few plants remained. The loss of this plant here would be a tragedy for both nature conservation and the village’s heritage”.
“ The villagers, with help from the partners, will grow plants from local seed and plant them out at two sites: Pipers Meadow in the village, and Bardfield Great Lodge, just outside. The Trust will also help with interpretive and educational programmes within the village”.
“We are very grateful to our funding partners, The Local Heritage Initiative, The Nationwide Building Society, The Essex Biodiversity Project and Braintree District Council, for their support and for making the project possible”.
END
Notes for Editors
1. The Oxlip is a nationally scarce plant only growing where Essex, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire meet. It mainly survives in ancient woodlands and is very rare now as a meadow plant.
2. This project will last 3 years, by which time the village will have gained the expertise to maintain the re-introduced plants and monitor their progress.
3. The Local Heritage Initiative is a national Grant scheme that helps local communities to investigate, explain and care for their local landscape, landmarks, traditions and culture. It is a partnership between the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Nationwide Building Society and the Countryside Agency
4. Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and runs seven visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county Wildlife Trusts that work together throughout the British Isles.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media and Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust, on 01621 862963 or Mobile 07803 660348
One of the best-loved spring flowers in north west Essex, the Oxlip, is to be given a helping hand by the Essex Wildlife Trust and the people of Great Bardfield. Numbers of this beautiful primula have declined dramatically in the last 30 years, and the species is now listed on the county Biodiversity Action Plan as requiring special help.
Nowhere feels this loss more than Great Bardfield which has a very special relationship with the Oxlip. In the 19th century the parish boasted ‘meadows yellow with oxlips’. They were so prolific that Henry Doubleday and Charles Darwin used samples from these sites in their work on the plant. As a result it was known for years as the ‘Bardfield Oxlip’, one of very few plant names including that of an English village.
Ray Tabor, Chairman of the Essex Wildlife Trust, said:
“ Oxlips have played an important role in Bardfield’s village life for several hundred years. They are seen on the village coat of arms and the schoolchildren’s sweatshirts. A countywide survey in 2002, however, showed very few plants remained. The loss of this plant here would be a tragedy for both nature conservation and the village’s heritage”.
“ The villagers, with help from the partners, will grow plants from local seed and plant them out at two sites: Pipers Meadow in the village, and Bardfield Great Lodge, just outside. The Trust will also help with interpretive and educational programmes within the village”.
“We are very grateful to our funding partners, The Local Heritage Initiative, The Nationwide Building Society, The Essex Biodiversity Project and Braintree District Council, for their support and for making the project possible”.
END
Notes for Editors
1. The Oxlip is a nationally scarce plant only growing where Essex, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire meet. It mainly survives in ancient woodlands and is very rare now as a meadow plant.
2. This project will last 3 years, by which time the village will have gained the expertise to maintain the re-introduced plants and monitor their progress.
3. The Local Heritage Initiative is a national Grant scheme that helps local communities to investigate, explain and care for their local landscape, landmarks, traditions and culture. It is a partnership between the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Nationwide Building Society and the Countryside Agency
4. Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and runs seven visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county Wildlife Trusts that work together throughout the British Isles.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media and Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust, on 01621 862963 or Mobile 07803 660348
British Bluebells under threat
24 April 2006
PRESS RELEASE
Spring is a magical time to walk in woods and enjoy the spectacle of carpets of bluebells in many Essex woods. The UK’s bluebell woodlands represent 20% of bluebells worldwide and are among the most beautiful and striking to see.
The immediate threat to bluebells is from habitat loss and the demand for bluebells for gardens. Some people may be tempted to dig up wild bluebell bulbs to use in their own gardens. It is illegal under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, to dig up the bulbs of wild bluebells and dealers can face heavy signs for selling them.
The true British bluebell is also under threat from the cultivated version of the Spanish bluebell, which has bred to form a hybrid species. This hybrid bluebell is becoming increasingly common.*
Andrew May, Conservation Manager, Essex Wildlife Trust says:
“If you are buying bluebells for your garden check that the bulbs have been cultivated for sale. Bluebells are just now coming into flower as Spring has been late this year, there are many woods in Essex with fantastic displays, I hope that everyone has the chance to enjoy them”.
To see some fantastic native British Bluebells why not go to the Essex Wildlife Trust Open Day at Churn Wood between Colchester and Elmstead Market.
This 60 acre wood is part of the Wivenhoe Estate and owned by the Gooch family. They kindly allow Essex Wildlife Trust, Colchester Group to hold their Bluebell Open Day, once a year in the Wood.
In Bluebell season the wood is an almost continuous cover of bluebells. The unusual feature of Churn Wood is that it now appears larger than it did on the estate map in 1770.
The Bluebell Day will be a true spring celebration with nature trails, children’s treasure hunt, plant stall and refreshments.
END
Notes to Editors:
1) The entrance for the Bluebell Open Day at Churn Wood is off A133 between Colchester and Elmstead Market. It is Sunday 30 April, at 10am to 4pm.
2) *Results from the Bluebells for Britain survey carried out in Spring 2003 showed that one in six British woodlands already had a mixture of native, Spanish and/or hybrid species present.
3) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348.
Spring is a magical time to walk in woods and enjoy the spectacle of carpets of bluebells in many Essex woods. The UK’s bluebell woodlands represent 20% of bluebells worldwide and are among the most beautiful and striking to see.
The immediate threat to bluebells is from habitat loss and the demand for bluebells for gardens. Some people may be tempted to dig up wild bluebell bulbs to use in their own gardens. It is illegal under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, to dig up the bulbs of wild bluebells and dealers can face heavy signs for selling them.
The true British bluebell is also under threat from the cultivated version of the Spanish bluebell, which has bred to form a hybrid species. This hybrid bluebell is becoming increasingly common.*
Andrew May, Conservation Manager, Essex Wildlife Trust says:
“If you are buying bluebells for your garden check that the bulbs have been cultivated for sale. Bluebells are just now coming into flower as Spring has been late this year, there are many woods in Essex with fantastic displays, I hope that everyone has the chance to enjoy them”.
To see some fantastic native British Bluebells why not go to the Essex Wildlife Trust Open Day at Churn Wood between Colchester and Elmstead Market.
This 60 acre wood is part of the Wivenhoe Estate and owned by the Gooch family. They kindly allow Essex Wildlife Trust, Colchester Group to hold their Bluebell Open Day, once a year in the Wood.
In Bluebell season the wood is an almost continuous cover of bluebells. The unusual feature of Churn Wood is that it now appears larger than it did on the estate map in 1770.
The Bluebell Day will be a true spring celebration with nature trails, children’s treasure hunt, plant stall and refreshments.
END
Notes to Editors:
1) The entrance for the Bluebell Open Day at Churn Wood is off A133 between Colchester and Elmstead Market. It is Sunday 30 April, at 10am to 4pm.
2) *Results from the Bluebells for Britain survey carried out in Spring 2003 showed that one in six British woodlands already had a mixture of native, Spanish and/or hybrid species present.
3) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and 1 nature park and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348.
Do you have a ‘Will for Wildlife’?
26 April 2006
Essex Wildlife Trust is asking all the people in Essex who care about protecting this beautiful and unique landscape and its wildlife to think about remembering the charity in their wills. If someone cares about Essex and would like to see the County’s wildlife protected after they are no longer here to influence this, then giving a gift to Essex Wildlife Trust can make their legacy live on and honour their life.
22nd to 29th April is national ‘Will for Wildlife Week’ where all 47 County Wildlife Trusts are encouraging people to consider making or reviewing their wills. After someone has insured there are adequate provisions for loved ones, giving a gift to Essex Wildlife Trust will not only help the charity continue to work to protect Essex’s wildlife but could also help to reduce or eliminate tax paid. Average house prices now stand at £185,000, which means more and more estates are now liable for Inheritance Tax (threshold now £275,000), which can be reduced or avoided with a thoughtful charitable bequest to Essex Wildlife Trust.
However, reducing tax is not the only benefit. Essex Wildlife Trust can use the money to undertake brilliant projects that without a legacy gift would not be possible. In 2000 the Trust was able to buy a 700 acre farm in Great Wigborough thanks to the foresight of a lady called Joan Elliot. Today, thanks to Miss Elliot, Essex Wildlife Trust is now gaining International recognition for the coastal realignment undertaken at Abbotts Hall Farm as well as showing farmers how crops can be grown profitably whilst still encouraging wildlife and housing the charities Head Office in the former farm house! Through Miss Elliot’s legacy gift Essex Wildlife Trust was also able to secure grants from other organisations to make all this possible.
This is not to say that the Trust only values large gifts; every penny counts in helping to conserve and protect Essex’s wildlife and encouraging all ages to enjoy and understand nature. For instance £500 could buy pond-dipping and other equipment for children, £1,000 could enable volunteers to build otter holts, £5,000 could pay for paths and boardwalks on reserves to provide better access for visitors with wheelchairs, £10,000 could restore a wildflower meadow to its former glory and £50,000 could help acquire an important wildlife site and save it from development forever.
Fundraising Manager, Christine Punter, said “Supporting Essex Wildlife Trust by giving a legacy gift is a very special act and we are very grateful to anyone who considers this. Because of the nature of the gift we often use the money to enable very inspirational and urgent work, like buying a nature site under threat from development, and always try to fit the project to the benefactors interests and wishes.”
If you are considering remembering Essex Wildlife Trust in your will to enable the charity to continue working to protect our beautiful countryside you are asked to phone Christine Punter on 01621 862983. She will provide you with more information about how to go about remembering the Trust and things to consider when writing a will. The charity also likes the opportunity to say thank you in advance and to get to know you, so they know how best to honour your life through your legacy when the time comes.
END
Notes to Editor:
Essex Wildlife Trust is the leading nature conservation charity in Essex protecting wildlife in the county for the future and residents to enjoy. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Christine Punter, Fundraising Manager, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862983, mob 07711 987677 or by email christinep@essexwt.org.uk
22nd to 29th April is national ‘Will for Wildlife Week’ where all 47 County Wildlife Trusts are encouraging people to consider making or reviewing their wills. After someone has insured there are adequate provisions for loved ones, giving a gift to Essex Wildlife Trust will not only help the charity continue to work to protect Essex’s wildlife but could also help to reduce or eliminate tax paid. Average house prices now stand at £185,000, which means more and more estates are now liable for Inheritance Tax (threshold now £275,000), which can be reduced or avoided with a thoughtful charitable bequest to Essex Wildlife Trust.
However, reducing tax is not the only benefit. Essex Wildlife Trust can use the money to undertake brilliant projects that without a legacy gift would not be possible. In 2000 the Trust was able to buy a 700 acre farm in Great Wigborough thanks to the foresight of a lady called Joan Elliot. Today, thanks to Miss Elliot, Essex Wildlife Trust is now gaining International recognition for the coastal realignment undertaken at Abbotts Hall Farm as well as showing farmers how crops can be grown profitably whilst still encouraging wildlife and housing the charities Head Office in the former farm house! Through Miss Elliot’s legacy gift Essex Wildlife Trust was also able to secure grants from other organisations to make all this possible.
This is not to say that the Trust only values large gifts; every penny counts in helping to conserve and protect Essex’s wildlife and encouraging all ages to enjoy and understand nature. For instance £500 could buy pond-dipping and other equipment for children, £1,000 could enable volunteers to build otter holts, £5,000 could pay for paths and boardwalks on reserves to provide better access for visitors with wheelchairs, £10,000 could restore a wildflower meadow to its former glory and £50,000 could help acquire an important wildlife site and save it from development forever.
Fundraising Manager, Christine Punter, said “Supporting Essex Wildlife Trust by giving a legacy gift is a very special act and we are very grateful to anyone who considers this. Because of the nature of the gift we often use the money to enable very inspirational and urgent work, like buying a nature site under threat from development, and always try to fit the project to the benefactors interests and wishes.”
If you are considering remembering Essex Wildlife Trust in your will to enable the charity to continue working to protect our beautiful countryside you are asked to phone Christine Punter on 01621 862983. She will provide you with more information about how to go about remembering the Trust and things to consider when writing a will. The charity also likes the opportunity to say thank you in advance and to get to know you, so they know how best to honour your life through your legacy when the time comes.
END
Notes to Editor:
Essex Wildlife Trust is the leading nature conservation charity in Essex protecting wildlife in the county for the future and residents to enjoy. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Christine Punter, Fundraising Manager, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862983, mob 07711 987677 or by email christinep@essexwt.org.uk
Professor Chris Baines Opening 200 Acres of Green Space for Major New Development in the Thames Gateway
7 April 2006
PRESS RELEASE
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Date: 22 April 2006. Time: 2.30pm.
Address: Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre, off Drake Rd, Chafford Hundred, Grays, Thurrock, RM16 7RG
With the governments drive towards sustainable communities and the need for green infrastructure within growth areas like the Thames Gateway, Essex Wildlife Trust are pleased to announce a special event to officially open Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre and Nature Park, set in the new development of Chafford Hundred, Grays, Thurrock.
Chafford Hundred is located in the Thames Gateway and adjacent to Lakeside. It is a new development of 6,500 new homes. Chafford Gorges Nature Park lies in the middle of this development and is a superb area of green space in what is a very urban area of Essex. It comprises 200 acres of former chalk quarries known as Warren Gorge, Lion Gorge and Grays Gorge, together with connecting Mill Wood and Wouldham Cliffs. There is an abundance of wildlife in the area and the cliffs are of geological importance.
John Hall Director of Essex Wildlife Trust said:
“It is one of the best places to see kingfishers, woodpeckers, butterflies and orchids that I know. Yet at the same time it is hugely important for local people as a green space for recreation and relaxation.”
Research has shown that areas of green space offer people measurable positive health benefits. Just 4 minutes of walking in woodland has been shown to reduce stress and heart rate and to be as good as taking anti-depressants. Chafford Gorges Nature Park will offer a very large group of people the opportunity to relax and enjoy nature in a very built-up area of Essex.
All 6,500 local families have been invited to the opening ceremony along with many supporters of the Trust and local dignitaries. A Marquee will be situated in Warren Gorge, off Drake Rd. People will be welcomed by Essex Wildlife Trust Director, John Hall and the Mayor of Thurrock.
Professor Chris Baines (T.V. Presenter and Author, specialising in urban wildlife and wildlife gardening) will be opening the Nature Park and Essex Wildlife Trust are expecting approximately 1,200 visitors.
People will also be offered the opportunity to take part in guided walks (short and long) with experienced walk leaders to show just some of the wildlife and green space that is available for all to enjoy. There will also be fun activities for Children, run by Essex Wildlife Trust Education Officers.
END
Notes to Editors:
1) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
2) If you would like to attend please confirm, so that a parking space can be reserved for you.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348 or email michelek@essexwt.org.uk.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Date: 22 April 2006. Time: 2.30pm.
Address: Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre, off Drake Rd, Chafford Hundred, Grays, Thurrock, RM16 7RG
With the governments drive towards sustainable communities and the need for green infrastructure within growth areas like the Thames Gateway, Essex Wildlife Trust are pleased to announce a special event to officially open Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre and Nature Park, set in the new development of Chafford Hundred, Grays, Thurrock.
Chafford Hundred is located in the Thames Gateway and adjacent to Lakeside. It is a new development of 6,500 new homes. Chafford Gorges Nature Park lies in the middle of this development and is a superb area of green space in what is a very urban area of Essex. It comprises 200 acres of former chalk quarries known as Warren Gorge, Lion Gorge and Grays Gorge, together with connecting Mill Wood and Wouldham Cliffs. There is an abundance of wildlife in the area and the cliffs are of geological importance.
John Hall Director of Essex Wildlife Trust said:
“It is one of the best places to see kingfishers, woodpeckers, butterflies and orchids that I know. Yet at the same time it is hugely important for local people as a green space for recreation and relaxation.”
Research has shown that areas of green space offer people measurable positive health benefits. Just 4 minutes of walking in woodland has been shown to reduce stress and heart rate and to be as good as taking anti-depressants. Chafford Gorges Nature Park will offer a very large group of people the opportunity to relax and enjoy nature in a very built-up area of Essex.
All 6,500 local families have been invited to the opening ceremony along with many supporters of the Trust and local dignitaries. A Marquee will be situated in Warren Gorge, off Drake Rd. People will be welcomed by Essex Wildlife Trust Director, John Hall and the Mayor of Thurrock.
Professor Chris Baines (T.V. Presenter and Author, specialising in urban wildlife and wildlife gardening) will be opening the Nature Park and Essex Wildlife Trust are expecting approximately 1,200 visitors.
People will also be offered the opportunity to take part in guided walks (short and long) with experienced walk leaders to show just some of the wildlife and green space that is available for all to enjoy. There will also be fun activities for Children, run by Essex Wildlife Trust Education Officers.
END
Notes to Editors:
1) Essex Wildlife Trust is protecting wildlife for the future. It has more than 27,000 members, manages and protects over 7,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and runs 7 visitor centres. It is one of the largest of the 47 county wildlife trusts that work together throughout the British Isles as The Wildlife Trusts.
2) If you would like to attend please confirm, so that a parking space can be reserved for you.
For further information, images and interviews please contact:
Michele Kench, Media & Marketing Officer, Essex Wildlife Trust on 01621 862963 or mobile 07803 660 348 or email michelek@essexwt.org.uk.