Grimsargh Wetlands Trust has received a £1,250 donation from the SUEZ recycling and recovery UK “Giving Something Back at Christmas” fund.
SUEZ staff from across the country were invited to nominate charities supporting those in need in their local communities and working to improve the environment.
Raymond Walker, Site Manager at SUEZ, nominated Grimsargh Wetlands Trust at the end of 2020.
Grimsargh Wetlands is made up of three former United Utilities reservoirs that provided water for the local community and industry from the mid-1800s until they were decommissioned in 2001.
In 2017, Grimsargh Wetlands Trust took over management of the wetlands, which it leases from Grimsargh Parish Council.
Read more: Grimsargh now has control of its reservoirs back
The Trust is responsible for promoting the conservation, protection and improvement of the nature reserve, which has become home to a stunning range of wildlife.
The £1,250 donation awarded by SUEZ will go towards improving biodiversity and the local bird population at the reservoirs, as well as improving access for all visitors.
Read more: Wetland habitats form part of new Preston and South Ribble flood defences plan
Explaining why he nominated Grimsargh Wetlands Trust, Raymond said: “The Trustees have worked really hard to provide, maintain and improve this nature reserve which has proven an invaluable asset to the village, its residents and schools during the many lockdowns we have experienced.
“It provides much needed open space to help people locally to take a break and reconnect with nature, and it has been fantastic to see the number of people and families enjoying a local walk around the site over recent months.”
As a volunteer-led organisation, the Trust relies entirely on public donations as well as funding from grant-giving organisations and corporate supporters like SUEZ.
Lezley Walker, Treasurer and Trustee at Grimsargh Wetlands Trust, said: “We are extremely grateful for this generous donation to our charity, particularly in these unprecedented times amid the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.”
Read more: Cottam’s Tipping family raise over £25,000 for charity
Fellow Trustee, Andy Small, who spearheads Grimsargh Wetlands’ fundraising activities, added: “Fundraising has been very difficult due to the lack of public events and opportunities available to us throughout the pandemic.
“This donation will enable us to further our important work developing the nature reserve and ensuring that the wetlands is safely accessible to all, to enjoy and benefit from getting closer to nature.”
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