Finding the spark
Discover how a TV programme about WWT fired Angela Hewitt to set up a nature reserve of her own.
One Sunday afternoon about 30 years ago I sat down to watch a programme that would change my life and give me a reason for being.
A story about Sir Peter Scott, it featured the creation of WWT Slimbridge. As the programme drew to a close, I felt an urge to do something similar, albeit on a smaller scale. I had no money and no idea how I was going to do it.
All of sixteen years later, my chance came – 10 acres of over-improved farmland and a small wood came up for sale close to where I used to cycle. I borrowed the money and bought it. Lots of people gave me lots of advice, I read numerous books on land management and creating wildflower meadows, devised a management plan and set up a charitable trust.
Our real breakthrough came after the Heritage Lottery granted us funding for a wildlife education centre, on condition that we call in a consultant.
Remembering that life-changing programme, I turned to WWT. I still remember those magical words in reply: “We can certainly help you develop a masterplan for your reserve and centre”.
I felt like we were being visited by the Queen but better because the WWT staff were so kind, friendly and inspiring. They brought out the best in everyone who took part. We were even invited to Slimbridge, where we were given yet more advice
We followed that advice and now we have an education pavilion, a dragonfly centre, a pond dipping trail and plenty of interpretation to guide people around the nature reserve.
Thank you WWT, and thank you Sir Peter Scott for making a difference.
By Angela Hewitt, WWT Member
