Charity's green space appeal hits target early

The charity launched a fundraising campaign to transform the land

A wildlife trust that appealed for funds to finance the transformation of a green space in the Shropshire Hills, reached its target nearly a week early.

Shropshire Wildlife Trust bought Betchcott Hill, which sits between the Stiperstones and the Long Mynd, and had aimed to raise £138,000 by 31 December.

But it surpassed that amount on Boxing Day, after raising nearly £50,000 between 24 and 26 December.

"Thank you to every single one of the over 1100 supporters who donated to this appeal. Thanks to you, we can restore Betchcott Hill for nature," the charity said on Facebook.

It added that the appeal would remain in place until the deadline, and any extra funds would go towards the ongoing management of the site.

Work planned for Betchcott Hill includes restoring grassland and heath, creating habitats for moorland birds, and ensuring access for the public.

It is hoped that in the future, the 50 hectare (123 acres) site could attract rare birds like curlews.