Swift fly-by and snail races at Sutton Bridge fun day

A nature based family fun day at Sutton Bridge was lucky enough to have a fly-by from the birds it was raising money to look after.

On Saturday, June 23 at St Matthews Church, Sutton Bridge, swifts performed an aerial display above the crowds attending Nature Watch Day, right on cue.

Organiser Lesley Robinson said the day was hugely popular and a great success. “My thanks go to all the stallholders who arrived with products and information regarding many aspects of nature and the great outdoors.

“The band of volunteers particularly from Long Sutton U3A provided such a warm welcome too,” Lesley said.

Snail racing was just one of the highlights, with RSPB, Lincs Wildlife trust, Vine house farm, hearing dogs, photography groups, bird boxes, bee keepers, U3A birdwatchers, baby hedgehogs, tiny bats and many more groups and charities providing things to see and do.

Place your bets – snail racing in progress.

Lesley gave a talk on swifts. telling attendees about the rapid decline of the UK’s swift population.

The event was set up to celebrate the successful project installing swift boxes in the top of the church tower.

“Not only has our conservation project provided valuable nesting sites for these endangered birds, but has generated much interest in the local community,” Lesley said.

“All of the nest activity can now be watched live on www.naturewatchcam.co.uk

Sponsorship for this came from Sutton Bridge Power Fund.

Lesley said of the chance of it becoming annual: “Judging by its popularity I think this will be a wonderful idea.”