VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO HELP CREATE NEW WILDFLOWR AREA AT LOCK ISLAND

Newbury Town Council is inviting local residents to get involved in creating a new wildflower area at Lock Island on Saturday 31 October at 10am

The community planting event is being organised by the Town Council’s Green Spaces Working Group in partnership with Newbury in Bloom and Friends of the Earth Newbury.

The new wildflower area will add to the network of spaces already established across Newbury, providing valuable habitat and food for a wide range of insects and wildlife. From bees and butterflies to birds and small mammals, these areas can make an important contribution to supporting biodiversity within the town.

Cllr Ian Jee, Chair of the Town Council’s Green Spaces Working Group, said, “We’ve seen the benefits of our wildflower areas across Newbury, from Victoria Park and City Recreation Ground to Roebutts Close and St George’s Avenue. They bring colour and interest to our green spaces, but more importantly they provide valuable habitat for pollinators and other wildlife.

“We’re now looking forward to extending this work to Lock Island and would really like local people to come along and help us get the new area started. Whether you’re passionate about wildlife or simply fancy spending some time outdoors doing something positive for the town, everyone is welcome.”

Wildflower areas are an important part of creating more wildlife-friendly spaces in an urban environment. As well as providing nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects, they offer shelter and food for a much wider range of species.

They also bring seasonal colour and variety to our green spaces, creating areas that can be enjoyed by both people and wildlife throughout the year.

No gardening experience is needed to take part. Volunteers just need to bring their enthusiasm and be prepared to get involved outdoors.

Come along to Lock Island, meeting at the swing bridge at West Mills on Saturday 31 October at 10am and help give Newbury’s wildlife a new place to thrive.