Southwick Country Park on Frome Road, Trowbridge, has officially been made a Local Nature Reserve, a special status which is much like that of a listed building.

Friends of Southwick Country Park member David Feather said: “It is a very important recreation facility for the Trowbridge community, as well as a major refuge for wildlife.

“As you can imagine, we Friends of the Park are delighted with this recognition, particularly coming whilst we are experiencing the anti-Covid regulations.”

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Among the rare birds and animals which can be found in the country park is this visiting kingfisher, pictured by David GalliersAmong the rare birds and animals which can be found in the country park is this visiting kingfisher, pictured by David Galliers

Chairman of the Friends, Joan Jones, said: “We have waited a long time for this piece of paper to be produced and it shows that effort and perseverance pays dividends.

“At the moment the Covid restrictions make it difficult for us to work in what is now a Local Nature Reserve but we will be back with renewed enthusiasm when we are allowed to do so.

"It’s great, we keep finding new plant and animal species. We love this piece of land as a protected haven in a welter of intense new development.”

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Southwick Country Park Autumnal Pictures. Pics by Diane Vose Southwick Country Park Autumnal Pictures. Pics by Diane Vose