The entrance to an Ellesmere Port nature reserve is to have a new wild look.
More than three hundred wildflowers have been planted around the main access to the 300 acre Rivacre Valley reserve, the green oasis of woodland and meadows on Rivacre Road.
Community group the Friends of Rivacre Valley and fellow volunteers carried out the planting .
Housing association Plus Dane donated the funds to pay for the wildflower plants, a mixture of native perennials for meadows and pastures.
The wildflowers will provide a rich source of nectar for bees, butterflies and other insects during the summer months and later seeds for seed eating birds.
The planting was the first initiative to brighten up the reserve by the Friends.
The group also aims to plant some annual wildflowers in other areas to create a diverse and rich patch of grassland in the future.
Netherpool ward borough councillor Diane Roberts (Lab) said: “The Friends of Rivacre Valley are a dedicated bunch of individuals who have done a fantastic job in planting the wildflower plugs. I am looking forward to seeing what else is planted at the next event.
“I encourage anyone to join the volunteering group and I guarantee that you will get so much more out of the projects than you ever imagined.
“Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and to make a difference in the community.”
Regular visitors to Rivacre Valley have shown their appreciation to the volunteers by setting up a Facebook group the ‘Rivacre Valley appreciation group.’
The Friends say they are always keen to recruit new members to support the group’s work and provide help to future events.
To find out more information about how to become involved call Tim Lloyd, the ranger within the Green Space team based at the reserve, on 0151 337 6338 or email timothy.lloyd@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.
The reserve is described as ideal for quiet walks, watching wildlife and picnicking. A variety of community activities and events take place throughout the year.
