Co-op members urged to support Northumberland nature reserve

The Northumberland Wildlife Trust site, located near Bardon Mill, is one of the 'best examples' of semi-natural ancient woodland in the region.

The site supports plants typical of this 'special habitat', including wild garlic, woodruff, and dog’s mercury, as well as some uncommon species and regional rarities.

Until October 19, Briarwood Banks is one of the Local Community Fund causes at the Co-op’s Haydon Bridge store.

An array of wildlife can be found at the nature reserve (Image: Supplied)

However, Co-op members from anywhere in the country can choose to support this cause by visiting the Co-op's website.

The more Co-op members who choose Briarwood Banks, the more money goes to look after the site.

Money raised so far, thanks to Co-op members, has enabled ten damaged wooden bird boxes to be replaced with new woodcrete boxes.

These are more resistant to damage from squirrels and woodpeckers, and provide safe nesting spaces for birds such as pied flycatchers and redstarts.

Step repair at Briarwood Banks (Image: Supplied)

Steps have been repaired on the footpath to help 'adventurous' visitors navigate this challenging route, and surveying has also started for dormice.

Dormice are rare animals that are known to be present on neighbouring land, but haven’t been recorded at Briarwood Banks yet.

Jennifer Care, estates officer at Northumberland Wildlife Trust, said: "The Co-op’s Local Community Fund is a fantastic opportunity for Co-op members to help Briarwood Banks nature reserve at no cost to them.

Ten damaged wooden bird boxes have been replaced (Image: Supplied)

"Any money we receive will go towards looking after this beautiful site and making it even better for wildlife and visitors."

There’s still more work to do, including tree works to help maintain the habitat of the woodland.

To make this your cause, visit: www.membership.coop.co.uk/causes/81260