RSPB Lakenheath Fen enjoys special event with about 200 visitors to celebrate 30th birthday

A nature reserve celebrated its 30th birthday with a special event which attracted about 200 visitors.

Entry and parking to RSPB Lakenheath Fen was free to members of the public on Sunday to mark the milestone.

Visitors learnt about the history of the site, watched the opening of an overnight moth trap, enjoyed a guided walk of the fen and took part in wildlife activities.

Dave Rogers, site manager, said: “The reserve has been a resounding success since it opened 30 years ago.

“We get 20,000 people come here a year and I think the reserve has really delivered. People get to see some great wildlife and have a really good time.

“Sunday was a special day and it was nice for us to celebrate the anniversary and after all these years it’s nice to see the hard work has paid off.”

Lakenheath Fen’s land was bought by the RSPB in 1995 and at the time it was used to grow carrots.

The charity turned the carrot fields into a wetland for wildlife and it now covers nearly 500 hectares, including a mature reedbed that attracts rare species such as marsh harriers, bitterns, cranes and bearded tits.

Mr Rogers said: “I’d like to thank our brilliant staff and volunteers.

“We have 40 to 50 volunteers on our books who do a range of work for us and we couldn’t run the reserve in the way we do without them. They’re so key to us.

“I also want to thank all the people who have supported us over the years, who have come to the centre, who have made donations, and who have joined as members - it really means a lot.”