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The National Trust is
celebrating 50 years caring for the coast at Formby
THE conservation charity The National Trust, have cared
for 210 hectares Freshfrilds' coastline, since 12 April 1967, when it was
safeguarded through the Neptune Fund, set up specifically to purchase and
protect coast around the UK.
The stretch of coast, now better know as Formby National trust Reserve, is an
area of great importance for its mobile sand dunes; some of the best in the
entire UK; and the wildlife that lives here, including:- rare Natterjack Toads,
sand lizards and red squirrels in the pine woods. It is also much loved by
locals and visitors with its stunning views that stretch out towards Wales, the
Irish Sea and even the Lake District!
Volunteers and staff marked the occasion by blowing out the candles on a 50th
birthday cake created by local Formby based cake designer
Lisa Lill, who runs
Cake Amour by Lisa and featuring sugar models
of the iconic dunes, pine woods and wildlife.
Justin Matthews, Ranger for the National Trust at Formby,
commented:- "50 years is a fantastic achievement and we are so proud to
reach this milestone. We couldn't do it without our dedicated staff and
volunteers and the support of our local community who work so hard to help care
for the coast, managing it and maintaining it for generations to come. We're
looking forward to the next 50 years and hope that everyone will join in the
celebrations by coming along to one of our events happening throughout the year
or just taking time out to enjoy this special place."
2017 is particularly significant because it marks Sefton Council's Year of the
Coast. It was also recently announced that the Trust is in conversations with
the Council about the possibility of caring for an additional 204 hectares of
land, currently managed by Sefton.
A spokesman for Sefton Council said:- "We know how important the coast is
and reaching 50 years in Formby is a significant milestone for the National
Trust. With 2017 being the Year of Sefton's Coast and the positive discussions
taking place between National Trust and Sefton Council over the potential
transfer of land in Formby, there is so much to celebrate. Here's to the next 50
years as well!"
Visit the National Trusts
website for a list of events at the
National Trust Formby; exploring everything from wildlife to asparagus and what
is living on the beach. |
