Five minutes from the centre of urban Worksop, on the edge of the village of Rhodesia, an historic riverside landscape is benefiting from a farmer's helping hand, thanks to funding from Defra's Countryside Stewardship Scheme.
Rare Tree Sparrows are amongst the wildlife which will benefit from year-round food supplies and nesting areas provided by farmer Bill Milner at Haggonfields Farm under the Scheme, obtained with help from the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG). Bill will plant and create grass margins which will provide habitats for insects and spiders, add areas of wild bird seed mix and leave crop stubbles for the birds to pick at during the winter.
Wading birds such as Snipe will also benefit, as wetland management will increase their habitat next to the River Ryton. A holt is being developed to house otters, and areas alongside the river and surrounding fields will be left untouched by pesticides or fertilisers, to provide feeding areas. Bill will also restore the orchard on the land and maintain historic field boundaries through hedge restoration.
Public rights of way though the farmland are clearly signposted, giving local people the opportunity to experience the fascinating landscape and go bird watching on their doorstep.
Bill said:
"The farm already attracts a large amount of wildlife but with the Countryside Stewardship Scheme we're hoping to increase this. People living in and around Worksop have a good opportunity to see the Tree Sparrows and other interesting birds and wildlife that have made their home on the land."
Ben Rodgers, Stewardship Adviser for Defra's Rural Development Service in the East Midlands, said:
"Going onto the farm feels like you're stepping back in time. You wouldn't believe that within five minutes you could be in Worksop. It's a great environment for birds and with the extra provisions that are now being made it will hopefully help to contribute to stopping or reversing the decline in numbers. Bill's hard work will bring benefits to both the wildlife and the local community"
Jim Egan, Farm Conservation Adviser for Nottinghamshire Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group, said "Working with Bill has been an absolute pleasure. His farm is a wildlife haven and hopefully the work he will be undertaking in the future, as part of his Countryside Stewardship Scheme, will enhance the farm's overall wildlife value and help to protect an important historic landscape."
Look out for the Tree Sparrows while exploring the footpaths. They are present all year round and easy to spot. They are slightly smaller and chubbier looking than House Sparrows with a chestnut crown, white cheeks with a clear black spot. There is no difference in appearance between the male and the female.
