It’s been a busy year at Stonebridge Wild River Reserve, the beautiful green space on the Marlborough’s eastern edge with the River Kennet running through it. The Reserve is jointly owned and managed by Action for the River Kennet(ARK) and Marlborough Town Council. At the AGM on Tuesday in Marlborough Town Hall, Anna Forbes, ARK’s Senior Project Officer & Volunteer Co-ordinator gave a comprehensive review of the year – a year that, in numbers, has seen 2012 children attend a River Schools Day, over 400 volunteers help with various projects and over 2000 Snake’s Head Fritillary bulbs planted!
As well as running the River Schools Days, which introduce local children to the river and its environs, 3 summer schools were run for members of the community, which were very well attended. There was also continued support and involvement from local businesses who participated in team building days and helped with projects in the Reserve.
Volunteers carried out surveying and monitoring work for river flies and water voles (Britain’s fastest declining mammal). Winter surveys of Harvest Mice nests were also undertaken and the data has contributed to a national database.
For the third year an adapted mowing regime, such as ‘no mow May’ and ‘let it bloom June’ with only paths mowed through the meadows, has had a beneficial effect on the vegetation and wildlife.
Improvements to the site have included new benches, an extended board walk at the far end of the meadow, built by volunteers, and new bird feeding observation panels, also built by volunteers.
However, special mention must go to the mural which was created by London based artist Janey Louise Fletcher, who specialises in spray painted murals. The mural showcases the animals and plants of the Reserve and is supported by T H WHITE, Marlborough and The GC Charitable Trust. A design competition was held for local school children and a Year 4 student from Marlborough St Mary’s won and is now featured in the mural. There is to be an official opening of the mural, open to all the community, on Saturday June 1st from 2-4pm and the naturalist Peter Marren will be leading a walk.
Anna commented, “Special thanks to our amazing and ever growing numbers of volunteers, local businesses and all who have supported our work in the Reserve this year. There’s always ongoing opportunities to get involved at Stonebridge.”
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