Williamson's Weekly Nature Notes

This is where you could see the great-crested grebe carrying its youngsters on its back.

The nature reserve is managed by The Sussex Wildlife Trust, and there is a wonderful walk through the snipe bog, through the reeds and the alder woods, over the causeway. Lesser-spotted woodpeckers will tap for beetles in the huge old ancient sweet chestnut trees, and dragonflies of many kinds glide through the summer air.

It is just one of 30 reserves illustrated by the trust in a new glossy guide book that is yours for 10 from its headquarters at Woods Mill, Henfield. Order your copy on 01273 492630. Maps show where to walk, with photos of flowers you could see, as well as scenes of the Downs, the heaths, the brooks or the tidal pools.

I have been hugging my copy to my chest all this week and shooting off in all directions to see these goodies for myself. Ever been to Ashdown Forest for instance?

For full feature see West Sussex Gazette March 19