Nature haven helpers needed to 'get muddy'

Bitterns are often seen at the nature reserve

The Natural History Society of Northumbria is calling for volunteers during the winter months to help "preserve essential habitats" at a nature reserve.

Gosforth Nature Reserve, on the outskirts of Newcastle, is one of the oldest reserves in the region and is home to marshland, wetlands and reed beds.

Every year volunteers are needed to cut back reeds, clear organic build-up and plant seeds for the coming spring.

Paul Drummond, reserve warden for more than 30 years, said help was needed to "wind back the clock" at rare habitats and that volunteers needed to be prepared to "get muddy".

He said: "We have a range of special habitats and we need to get them ready for next year.

"Maintenance work is important to keep them stable and not allow nature to transform them."

The reserve is owned by the Arena Racing Company, which also owns Newcastle Racecourse, and it has been leased to the history society for the last 101 years.

Every year volunteers are needed to help with habitat maintenance work

Mr Drummond said habitats like the wetlands are vital for rare birds like bitterns and more common ones like reed warblers.

Work needs to be done to clear reeds and make sure trees do not grow and transform the area into woodland.

Volunteers can be involved in planting trees or clearing ditches

The reserve warden said anyone considering volunteering needed to bring wellies or boots.

"Coming and helping with the maintenance work is good for people and it is good for the environment," he said.

"Getting in the mud and getting dirty can be really fun for volunteers but that does wear off after a few years.

"A lot of people find that they get a lot of enjoyment out of it."

Volunteers are needed on the Saturday of the last weekend of the month until March 2026.