A FREE fun event, open to all, was held at the Lattersey nature reserve in Whittlesey to mark its reopening following recent improvement works.

There was a guided walk through the reserve, plus various activities for children, including reed weaving, leaf art and making insect homes. Hot drinks were also on offer.

The event, on Saturday, was organised by the Wildlife Trust and Fenland District Council. It marked the start of the Welcome to Wetlands project, which will give people the chance to become involved with looking after the reserve.

Lattersey had been closed for a few weeks for a number of improvements to be made, including a major project by FDC to repair a 100-metre bank that had become seriously eroded, exposing some landfill waste. New gates and a new noticeboard have been installed, as well as more dog bins and a bench.

Rachel Price, the Wildlife Trust’s community wildlife officer, said: “Consultation feedback has shown that many local people would like to get more involved with the reserve, so on the day we highlighted all the many ways they can help – everything from litter-picking, putting up posters and monitoring wildlife to volunteer wardening, leading work parties and running family events.”

Councillor Peter Murphy, FDC’s portfolio holder responsible for the environment, said: “Together with the Trust, we have been working hard to make Lattersey an even better place to discover and enjoy wildlife.”

Lattersey nature reserve is off New Road, Whittlesey, beside the recycling depot.