News

Saturday, 19 September 2009

25 Years at Old Hall Marshes

In 1984, the RSPB bought the freehold of Old Hall Marshes for £780,000. This was then the largest investment that the Society had made. The problem then was how to fund this purchase so, in 1985 the RSPB set up the Eric Morcambe Memorial fund in memory of that famous comedian, who was a very keen bird watcher. His wife Joan was deeply involved and many celebrities helped to create many wonderful money raising functions, to the effect that, in1988, their target of £1.5 million was achieved. This helped to fund, not only the purchase of the property, but the cost of transforming the 1,134 acres of partly drained farmland into the wild life paradise that it is today.

At this time, this group decided to donate all funds raised in 1986/1987 to Old Hall and this was used in a wide assortment of projects from purchasing machinery and livestock to financing an Aerial Photographic Survey, a water quality research programme and to bridge building.

This was all celebrated at Old Hall on Saturday 12th September, when members and staff met on a glorious afternoon for a guided walk of the Reserve followed by tea and home made cakes. The day was capped by the sight of a small party of Spoonbills- a typical Old hall surprise.

If you have not yet paid a visit to this charismatic reserve then why not ring the Reserve on 01621 869015 and obtain a permit. 1,000's of Brent Geese, Wigeon and many other ducks and waders will soon be flocking there. A spectacle too good to miss.
MLW