Nature reserve will become more accessible

A nature reserve area prone to flooding will become more accessible for visitors who use mobility aids, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust has said.

A stone path is being created and a new drainage system installed at one of the wettest parts of North Cave Wetlands in East Yorkshire.

The Trust said the work, from Turret Hide to the northwest corner of the reedbed lake, will "significantly improve access over an area that gets wet and very muddy during winter".

Tony Martin, nature reserves manager at the site, said he advised visitors to follow path diversions until the work, estimated to take six weeks depending on the weather, was completed.

He added: "We pride ourselves on managing North Cave Wetlands in a way that makes it a haven for wildlife and people to enjoy, whatever their ability.

"As the reserve expands, wildlife increases too, which draws more people. The work means part of the reserve will look a little unsightly for a while and wellies and walking boots are also recommended in winter."

The work is being funded by private donors.

North Cave Wetlands is home to barn owls, bitterns, curlews and kingfishers, as well as up to 2% of the national breeding population of avocets.

On Thursday, the Trust said an outbreak of bird flu was affecting mute swans at the reserve.

It said it was "closely monitoring" the situation, with support from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, but confirmed the reserve is still open.

Visitors are asked to report sick or dead birds.

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