Nature features

Local schoolchildren study in the field.

Land next to All Saints Church in Daresbury has been transformed in to a haven for wildlife for the local community.

The strip of land next to the church yard was converted with funding from the Breathing Places initative which works to create local green spaces for use by wildlife and for local people.

The church of All Saints in Daresbury is famous for its association with Lewis Carroll, who was born in the village, he is commemorated by stained glass windows inside the church which depict characters from Alice in Wonderland.

Working on the land

Reverend Canon David Felix of All Saints Church worked with local artist and designer Christine Wilcox-Baker to apply for Lottery funding to help develop the strip of land.

The Breathing Place has now been created, including a wildflower meadow area and plants to attract birds and butterflies.

Children from Daresbury Village School have begun carrying out nature surveys and will be creating bird boxes and bug habitats for the site.

The site is open to all to walk in and benches will be installed to enable quiet contemplation, enjoyment of the rural views and study of the flora and fauna.

A bulb planting day is also being planned for October and volunteers will be welcome to help members of the local Nature group with this.

The land is transformed

Reverend Felix is hoping the area will become an integral part of village life, "We are looking forward to watching it mature into a valuable diverse habitat for many creatures, and as a place where people can both learn about their environment and relax."

An official opening will take place on Sunday October 5, 2008, immediately following the annual Harvest Festival Service.

The service begins at 10.30am and the Breathing Place opening will be at approximately 11.30am.

Lord Daresbury will be attending along with The Mayor of Halton, villagers and children from the village school and everyone is welcome to come along.