Sunday, May 20, 2012

Gorse Hill Nature Reserve Aughton Open Day May 2012


Gorse Hill Nature Reserve Aughton Open Day May 2012

Prior to World War II the land around Holly Lane in Aughton, West Lancashire was covered with rich woodland.  After the war the woodland was cleared to make way for farming to feed a hungry country.  Now sixty years later the wheel has turned full circle and the woodland has returned.

Gorse Hill Nature Reserve Open Day May 2012
Gorse Hill Nature Reserve Open Day May 2012

Maintained by the Northwest Ecological Trust the Gorse Hill Nature Reserve began its transformation back to woodland in 1996.  The reserve now covers an area of 120 acres. This includes woodland, ponds, reed beds, wetlands, a soft fruit and vegetable area, an orchard and wildflower meadows.

An award from the Big Lottery Fund in February 2012 meant the visitors centre could be upgraded.  The Open Day on Saturday 20th May 2012 was a great opportunity for families to visit the Nature Reserve in Aughton and to  take a relaxing stroll along the woodland trail away from the hustle and bustle of nearby market town, Ormskirk. Visiting children especially liked pond dipping with their nets and drawing with charcoal sticks, freshly made on the site in a demonstration of charcoal making.

The Gorse Hill Nature Reserve, Holly Lane, Aughton in West Lancashire is open for visitors on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

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