The Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust marked a remarkable milestone for local nature recovery during a special evening by the waterside. Supporters gathered at The Barnsdale to celebrate three incredible anniversaries: 70 years of the Trust, 50 years of the Rutland Water Nature Reserve, and 30 years of the pioneering Rutland Ospreys project.
A Night of Reflection and Celebration
Guests included local members, volunteers, trustees, and Rutland and Stamford MP Alicia Kearns. The evening reflected on massive conservation successes, including the Rutland Water Nature Reserve, which recently recorded just under 5,000 species during a special 50-hour wildlife count. Attendees also looked back at the pioneering osprey project, which successfully reignited the return of the magnificent birds of prey to England.
Expert conservationists Tim Sexton and Dr Tim Mackrill spoke about the future of monitoring local species and protecting these beautiful birds. Trust boss Mat Carter shared his reflections on the incredible journey the charity has taken over the decades. Between the speeches, guests enjoyed a sumptuous three-course meal prepared by the talented chefs at the venue.
Fundraising for Future Projects
A raffle held during the night successfully raised an incredible £1,485 to help fund future local wildlife projects. The evening beautifully demonstrated what can be achieved when perseverance, passion, and partnership come together for our local environment. It was highly fitting for the celebration to be held near the shores of Rutland Water, just seven miles away from the famous Manton Bay osprey nest.
Looking to the Future
The charity is now looking firmly to the future with the goal of ensuring future generations inherit a thriving landscape rich in biodiversity. While celebrating the progress made so far, organisers noted there is still vital work to be done to ensure local wildlife continues to flourish. The Trust shared their sincere thanks to everyone who has been part of the journey over the last seven decades, and warmly welcomes anyone who would like to join them in their vision of a wild and thriving local landscape.
Quotes from Leadership
Trust chair Ann Tomlinson said: “We are so grateful to everyone who has supported us over the past 70 years – members, partners, volunteers and supporters of every kind. But we all know there is still so much work needed to ensure that nature, constantly under threat, can recover and be there for generations to come. The work of the Trust can make that vital recovery a reality.”
Mat Carter added: “We can look back at these last seven decades of conservation work with pride. The victories achieved for the wildlife of Leicestershire and Rutland show what is possible in the continuing fight for nature’s recovery. Thousands of people now visit Lyndon Visitor Centre each year to see the Ospreys returning from migration. Rutland Water hosts regular counts of 20,000 birds in the winter months. Our reserve network continues to expand, and our projects in the wider countryside grow in diversity and depth. Though nature continues to face challenges and pressure, there is cause for optimism. With the generous backing of our membership and many other supporters of all kinds, we will continue to work for a wilder future.”
