26th June 2008

Bugs, Beasties & Creepy-crawlies...

Getting up close to wildlife Did you know that dragonfly larvae can
spend up to five years in water? That the jumping zebra spider has the best eyesight in the spider world? That woodlice are not insects but more closely related to crabs and shrimps?

These minibeasts are small and maybe
difficult to find, but they’re endlessly fascinating and if you want to find out more about them come along to one of two ‘Meet the Wildlife’ events supported by the Blackwater Valley Countryside Trust. The
first takes place at Lakeside Nature Reserve
in Ash on Wednesday 30th July, with
Hawley Meadows the venue for the second event, two days later on Friday 1st August. Both events run from 10.30am to 3.30pm on sites bordering the River Blackwater, and will give people the opportunity to get up close and personal to the native wildlife.

So what’s going on? Well at both events a team from the Blackwater Valley Countryside We've been ona bug hunt
Partnership will be leading bug-inspired
activities, including pond dipping and
minibeast hunts for children and adults alike. There will be various activities games and quizzes to keep the children amused, whilst adults can take the opportunity to talk to some of the people who look after the site.
At Lakeside on Wednesday 30th July only there will be a three-mile guided walk around the area starting at 11pm. At Hawley Meadows only there will be an opportunity
to get close to the cattle that are grazing
the meadow as part of the site management programme.

If you want to find out more about bugs, beasties and creepy-crawlies and explore these two Blackwater Valley sites, note the dates, bring the family and a picnic and make the most of the opportunity; tea, coffee and soft drinks will be available. Please note that children under 16 must be accompanied by
an adult and only dogs on leads are permitted. Facilities are basic so please wear suitable clothing and footwear.

The car park for Lakeside Nature Reserve is off Lakeside Road, Ash Wharf GU12 5AA.
The main car park for Hawley Meadows is found along the west side of the A331 between the M3 and A30. For more details ring 01252 331353

END

For more information contact: Christine Reeves, Visitor Promotions Officer on 01252 331353. Ash Lock Cottage, Government Road, Aldershot GU11 2PS

NOTES

These events are supported by the Blackwater Valley Countryside Trust and are designed to encourage residents within the Blackwater Valley area to learn more about the countryside on their doorstep.
Lakeside Park borders the Blackwater Valley Path and covers 20 hectare. It contains a mosaic of different habitats supporting a wide variety of wildlife and offers visitors two nature trails. It is managed by Guildford Borough Council with the help of Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership.
Hawley Meadows is a traditionally managed floodplain meadow which plays an important role as a flood defence for the nearby towns. The River Blackwater runs for over a mile through the site. It is owned by Hampshire County Council and Blackwater & Hawley Town Council and managed by the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership.