Events - May 2011 

 WALK: Dawn Chorus Day & Breakfast

On International Dawn Chorus Day, come and join Surrey Wildlife Trust Voluntary Warden Pete Bickford for two walks in one (woodland and heathland), comparing the different species of birds to be heard on these two contrasting habitats. Then join us, for a warming cup of tea or coffee and a pastry. Please make sure you are warmly dressed! We will drive you from the head office to two different locations. Time: 4.45am – 7.15am. Cost: Suggested donation, adults £2, children £1. Breakfast: Bottomless tea/coffee and a pastry £3.  Booking essential, please call Katy Gower on 01483 795471. Surrey Wildlife Trust Head Office, School Lane, Pirbright, Woking. Surrey GU24 0JN.
 

WALK:  Dawn Chorus

Join the Woklingham & Bracknell branch of the RSPB on International Dawn Chorus Day for an early morning stroll, during the most energetic and bustling time of days for birds. Wear sturdy shoes and warm /waterproof clothing and bring binoculars. Adults £1, accompanied children free (money to RSPB). Meet at 5am in the main car park Dinton Pastures Country Park, Davis Street, Hurst Berks RG10 0TH.

WALK: Farnham Town

Join a local guide on this walk to discover more about the history of this Georgian town. Meet at Wagon Yard car park at the bottom of Downing Street. Time: 11am – 1pm. Covers 2-3 miles. Adults £3, children free. Money goes to local charities. This is a regular walk held on the first Sunday of each month. For more details ring 01252 718119.
 

WALK: A Date With Nature

Join the Wokingham and Bracknell branch of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds on a monthly walk around Dinton Pastures Country Park. Children under 18 must be accompanied. Time: 9am – 12.30pm. Meet in the main car park at Dinton Pastures Country Park. Cost: £1, children free (proceeds to RSPB).
 

WALK: Walk the Path Weekend                  

If you’re looking for a walk with a difference this is the one. Starting at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, and the source of the River Blackwater, the 23-mile route follows the Blackwater Valley Path to Swallowfield, enabling participants to see how much the valley’s landscape changes and to appreciate the green spaces and wildlife found within the area. Organised by the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership and now in its seventhyear there are walk leaders, refreshments and check points en route and on both days transport is provided to the starting point. Costs £8 for one day, £12 for both days. Pre-booking essential.   More details >>>
 

TALK:  Astronomy

Are you fascinated by the night sky? The Reading Astronomical Society holds a regular series of talks on astronomy basics, including advice on using telescopes always available. Meet on the first Saturday of the month (except July and August), Loddon Room, Dinton Pastures Country Park. Time: 7pm. Cost: Free. For further information contact Gerry Bond on (0118) 986 4032 or email
 

WALK: Friend’s of Lavell’s Lake Bird Walk 

Lavell’s Lake is rich in bird life, which is attracted to the much extended reed beds, shallow scrapes and quiet surroundings. Bittern Hide offers extensive seating and standing room overlooking Tern Scrape, whilst Teal Hide offers great views over the scrape and a fine Sand Martin Wall. On the second Sunday of every month join the Friends of Lavell’s Lake for a walk around the Park. Cost: Members free, donation of £1 for non-members. Meet for a 9am start at Sandfords Lane car park opposite the Black Swan Sailing Club, Dinton Pastures Country Park, Davis Street, Hurst, Berks RG10 0TH. Should last until 12 noon. For more details ring 01189 342 016 or visit their website
 

• Event organised by Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership