HARDWORKING volunteers have celebrated 15 years of maintaining a popular wildlife haven in Chippenham.

The Baydons Meadow Wildlife Group marked their 15th anniversary with a special picnic for local supporters.

The meadow, which sits on the southern bank of the River Avon, had been neglected for many years until it was bought by the Chippenham Borough Lands Charity. Now a team of volunteers have transformed the field by planting thousands of flowers and bulbs and creating a new copse. Hedge-laying and hay raking has also turned it into an ideal habitat for butterflies, dragonflies, birds, bats, mice, voles, frogs and toads.

Chairman Julia Brotherton said: “It’s been a long process but we’ve been amazed by the results, and the meadow has become a valuable asset for the local community.

“People appreciate the peaceful environment and the abundance of flora and fauna, and often sit on the log seats near the river to enjoy their surroundings.”