The good news is that we have been awarded a Groundwork/Big Lottery grant of up to £49,999 to spend on getting the project up and running this year. Thanks to everyone involved, and especially those experts who have given us their time over the rather long drawn out process! When we have got the project on its way, and spent the money, we look forward to thanking everyone in a traditional way, with a celebration.

Next step is to complete the survey and soil sampling of the site, to ensure the safety of everyone, volunteers, and members of the public using the site. There is an onsite meeting with Wessex Water on Wednesday 27th January to finalise plans.

There will be a working party on Sunday 31st January from 10.30 onwards. This coincides with the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch, and it would be good if people could record sightings on that day. Online recording form can be obtained at www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch. Its got pictures, to help identification.

We held a successful evening on Wednesday 20th January, when a talk by Mathew Marshall entertained a large group of supporters. (report by David Gordon to follow). Those interested the logging of animals, plants seen when out and about can record their findings by contacting the Somerset Environmental Records Office, Tonedale Mill, Wellington, Somerset, TA21 DAW. Tel 01823 664 450, or info@somerc.com

Roger will be meeting the contractor and Landscape Architect on site in mid February, and we hope site work can start in April.

The next general meeting will be in the pub, on Thursday 25th February at 7.30. A full update will be given then. Mary H Clarke 24/01/2010