RESERVE FACT SHEET

HOLME PIEERREPONT (SKYLARKS)

SIZE: 24 acres ................................................................ Click here for Site Map .........................Click for Skylarks Article

RESERVE TYPE: Disused gravel pit with associated marginal vegetation.

STATUS: The reserve is managed by the Trust on behalf of the Winged Fellowship Trust, an Organisation which provides holidays for disabled people. The land is leased from Tarmac Topmix Ltd.(formerly Hoveringham Gravels) who have an active site across Adbolton Lane.

Financial support for the development of the reserve was received from the Allen Lane Foundation, the Carnegie UK Trust, the Country Landowners Association Charitable Trust and the Countryside Commission

ACCESS: The reserve (SK622389) lies to the north of Adbolton Lane just past the entrance to the Water Sports Centre. The reserve was intended primarily for wheelchair-bound people and their companions, although able bodied people are equally welcome. However the full potentail for using the site was never fully realised, but it remains an important "wildlife oasis"

DESCRIPTION: The reserve was created in 1982 and is believed to have been the first of its kind, being laid out specifically for the benefit of disabled people.

The area comprises a former gravel pit which has been recolonised by plants and animals since gravel extraction ceased. A good range of wetland and hedgerow birds can be seen on the reserve including great crested grebe, kingfisher, reed bunting, skylark and lapwing.

In winter, redwing and fieldfare are to be seen and in summer common tern, yellow wagtail, reed warbler and sedge warbler are regular.

The site is excellent for damselflies and dragonflies. Butterflies which are regularly seen include meadow brown, common blue, small heath and orange tip.

There is a wide and varied flora which includes marsh marigold, oxlip, cowslip, southern

marsh and common spotted orchids, along with hybrids between the two are to be found. There are good stands of Norfolk reed and frog's, toads and newts are to found in suitable areas.

There is a variety of willows to be found on the reserve and other tree species include alder, birch, oak and ash. A nature trail leaflet is available.

CONSERVATION AIMS/PROBLEMS: Maintenance of paths and boundary fences is necessary and the site suffers from occasional vandalism. Mowing of the grass areas is necessary at the appropriate time of year.

CONTACT: Reserve Manager Kieth Wakerly