Wetland wonder

Work on the Lake District's first ever wetland nature reserve has got underway, opening up a wildlife haven with nationally acclaimed species on the shores of Bassenthwaite.

If you don't know the difference between a snipe, stonechat and sedge warbler, you soon will as the 70-plus acre site at Dubwath Silver Meadows is expected to be completed by next summer.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for people who love flora and fauna," explained David Keddy, of the Environment Agency, who is leading the project on behalf of community landscape programme Bassenthwaite Reflections.

He added: "Visitors to the reserve can expect to spot some wonderful wildlife, including grasshopper warblers, curlews, greylag geese, reed buntings and meadow pipits.

"We are very conscious that the site is a protected Special Area of Conservation and all the work will be carried out within strict guidelines."

A new 650m gravel path is linking to 900m of recycled plastic boardwalk and an additional three km of existing trails. The new paths are designed to provide access for all ages and abilities and will take visitors on a tour of the wetland, with stops at viewing points and bird hides.

Volunteers will be working with Grampus Heritage and Training, marking out and excavating the path, cutting back overhanging trees and laying gravel. They will also be helping to build round Celtic style wildlife hides, made from local materials gathered in coppice woodlands and reed beds.

Anyone wanting to get involved should contact Grampus on 016973 21516.