Durham Wildlife Trust

How it all began

Durham Wildlife Trust manages 36 nature reserves from the Tees to the Tyne, encompassing ancient woodland, large heaths, grassland meadows, wetlands and more. Testament to the diverse landscape of the north east, each Nature Reserve requires unique management, including our 12 designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest.

Durham Wildlife Trust  have recently purchased Herrington Hill from a private landowner as they want to raise awareness amongst local residents and the wider community about the significance of this nature reserve and encourage more people to visit to celebrate it and enjoy the wildlife at Herrington Hill.

Making a difference

They want to improve access by building a new pedestrian entrance and provide new information board at the pedestrian entrance to Herrington Hill. In addition they want to build an area of hard standing for parking and as a meeting point at the entrance. This will be for individual visitors and volunteers as well as providing a meeting point for guided walks, which will be led by Durham Wildlife Trust Reserves Staff. A better entrance will also make it easier for staff to access the nature reserve when carrying out management, moving stock and carrying out wildlife surveys.

With thanks to you

Keith is a regular long term volunteer at Durham Wildlife Trust who  is very experienced and knowledgeable about wildlife and practical conservation. He is able to guide and support less experienced volunteers and help them to feel involved and part of the team. His contribution is invaluable and makes a huge difference to wildlife, other volunteers and Durham Wildlife Trust.

“ Although it was hard work putting in those fence posts, I have really enjoyed working at Herrington Hill. Our work is already starting to make a difference and we are looking after this special bit of grassland. Even better, it is close to where I live. I hope other people visit it too and enjoy spotting the different plants and butterflies in the spring”