We are lucky in the borough to have some wonderful areas of natural beauty- North Walney Nature Reserve is a prime example and we have recieved a nomination for the reserve’s warden, STEVE BENN, in the Environmental Award category of the 2015 Love Barrow Awards.
Steve is the official warden for North Walney nature reserve and is employed by Natural England. North Walney is one of the best coastal nature reserves in the country, retaining a real wilderness feel in a largely industrial local landscape.
The reserve’s most famous resident is the noisy natterjack toad. One of the UK’s rarest amphibians, it is only found at around 40 sites in England.
Steve’s passion for his work is so obvious. He has been the warden of the site for many many years. Although he is employed, Steve goes far beyond his duties as a warden. He is friendly and very approachable with an unbelievable knowledge of what he does. He is involved with everything that happens in the reserve. This is from protecting, enhancing and encouraging its use.
He regularly works over, finishing the job. He gives tours of the reserve and works closely with local schools, educating the young about the importance of the reserve, and nature in general. Steve also arranges community beach cleans and reserve cleans.
The benefits Steve dedication gives is wide ranging. This is from national (protection of rare species), local and to the local community and young people. Other benefits are to the local economy as he works closely with Barrow Borough Council advising them on various committees linked to nature and heritage.
A GREAT ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD NOMINATION – WELL DONE STEVE