Wildspace! English Nature’s grant scheme for Local Nature Reserves involves local communities in the improvement, care and enjoyment of their local environment.

Over the next twelve months, the money will enable a range of projects to be completed. These include restoration work to the ponds at Myrna Close, Morden Park and Cranmer Green, as well as the construction of boardwalks at Derwent Floodwash and Fishpond Wood.

For more information contact Ruth Hutton 020 8545 3658.

Notes to Editor:

London Wildlife Trust: Merton Conservation Volunteers

This Group organises regular workdays and walks on many of Merton’s wildlife sites. Essential management task such as scrub management, footpath clearance and pond maintainance are undertaken on sites all over the borough.

Recently, the group was successful in a bid to Bridge House Estates Trust in securing funding to construct a new pond and extension to the surfaced footpath at Pyl Brook Reserve.

In addition, the Norlands Trust has given the group a grant of £13,200 to
extend the boardwalk in Fishpond Wood.

The volunteers that coordinate the activities of the Group meet quarterly to plan projects and discuss wildlife issues. New members are always welcome.

For further information and a list of events for 2003, please contact Dr Stephen Frank on 020 8946 2784 or email Stephen.Frank@ukgateway.net