Local Heroes

Change can only happen when local people work together to make a difference. They don't only give nature a helping hand, but can unlock benefits for the whole community.

For farmer Tony Wood and his wife Sharon, nature is at the heart of their business. At Abbots Reading Farm, nestled in the Rusland Valley, Cumbria, the way that they graze their sheep and cattle produce premium meat as well as providing ideal breeding conditions for wetland birds such as lapwings, curlews and redshanks. These birds share the land with a diverse range of other wildlife, with resident dormice, otters and wild flowers that crate a glorious explosion of colour in summer.

Tony and Sharon are sharing the richness of their local wildlife by offering octolodge accommodation for visitors, and are helping to connect children with farming and nature through their on-farm education programme. To find out more visit their website.

 

Cattle and wetlands © David Morris