As part of the ‘Kirklees Active Outdoor Festival’ there will be an opportunity for members of the public to have a guided walk around the grounds of Shelley College. Please meet in the car park by the mound at the front of the school.
As part of the school obtaining ‘Specialist School’ status they now employ a part-time environmental warden , Tim Scott. Tim manages the 35 acre site for the benefit of wildlife and school alike. Tim and myself will be leading the walk and giving people the opportunity to learn some birdsong and if the weather is favourable there could also be spring butterflies, flowers and other insects to see.
Much time and effort is going into the grounds to improve the bio-diversity and improve, the already, excellent range of habitats present. By the beginning of May most of the summer migrant birds will have arrived and along with the resident species, birdsong should be at its peak.
The walk should last approximately an hour and is free of charge. Please note there will also be some limited facilities for any disabled people who may wish to join the walk too.
Steve Graham
Wildlife Adviser, Shelley Conservation Group.
Shelley Village Magazine, April 2004.