JCB support for local nature reserve

Tean Valley Meadow Nature Reserve sows seeds of success with £15,000 donation from JCB

A NATURE reserve which has become a haven for endangered wildlife is celebrating the next stage of its growth thanks to a donation from JCB.

The 11-acre Tean Valley Meadow Nature Reserve, near Uttoxeter, has been awarded £15,000 in a three-year support package from JCB.

What started out as a retirement project for founders Alan Williams and his late wife Sylvia, in 2002, has become a regional visitor attraction and respected national haven for flora and fauna.

The nature reserve features a natural planted woodland of more than 5,000 trees, including 24 native species, as well as a wildflower meadow and a wetland area.

It has become a nationally recognized site for endangered species of barn owls and newts, both of which are thriving at the site.

The reserve is run by 81-year-old Mr Williams, a team of four trustees and several volunteers, whose aim is to raise awareness of environmental issues and build support among the community.

The team has a particular focus on encouraging young people to develop craft skills and knowledge of the natural environment, with hundreds of young people and families visiting the reserve each year.

‘JCB’s support enables us to continue to improve the site and to develop the wetland scrapes which are home to many endangered species of newts,’ said Mr Williams.

‘Our aim is to keep improving the habitat, sharing our knowledge through craft courses and talks, and preserving the site for generations to come. We cannot thank JCB enough for their support.’

A JCB spokesman said: ‘Alan and his late wife’s commitment to the environment is a shining example of what can be achieved with vision and hard work. Such dedication to creating and developing this wildlife haven on our doorstep is something we are delighted to support.’