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In 2011, LOVE Northumberland launched a set of awards to mark out projects that are enriching our wonderful county. One group which is continuing to enjoy the benefits from these awards is ‘The Friends of Bolam Lake’.
The Friends of Bolam Lake group was formed seven years ago to work with the Countryside Officer at the lake to increase the number of visitors and to carry out voluntary tasks in the Park. They aim to promote, preserve and protect Bolam Lake Country Park.
As recognition for their hard work and dedication, they were finalists in the Best Coast or Countryside Project category in the 2011 LOVE Northumberland awards. As part of the prize 50 trees were donated to the area by the Forestry Commission.
The Oak, Cherry and Rowan trees planted by the group last winter have now taken root and flourished in the well-loved country park. For many years Bolam Lake has been a popular place for a day out in the countryside, to take a leisurely stroll around the lake or explore the woodland.
As you take a walk around the lake you may notice a new nesting island that has appeared in the quiet of the nature sanctuary. This was the idea of Richard Cansdale, the group’s chairman, and he designed and built it. The island has been named ‘Decies’ island after the man who originally owned the land and created the lake. There are now two nesting islands which last year saw a family of coots raised successfully on the first.
County councillor Simon Reed executive member for Northumberland’s county parks said: “Our country parks are greatly enhanced by groups like ‘the friends of Bolam Lake’, who generously give up their time to work alongside our teams to improve their local area.
“It is great to see such positive results from their hard work, and also to see the on-going benefits from the LOVE Northumberland awards.”
If you wish to become involved in the work of this group, which is very friendly and informal, ring the Country Park on 01661 881234 or email them at bolamlake@northumberland.gov.uk
Bolam Lake Country Park lies about 9 miles west of Morpeth and is signposted off the A696 from Belsay. It is situated in the heart of the beautiful Northumberland countryside surrounded by historic landscapes and dramatic views. It has lakeside, woodland and open grassed areas for all to enjoy with the attractive lakeside walk being accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Entries for this year’s LOVE Northumberland awards, supported by the Banks Group, have just closed and judges are shortlisting the finalists. The presentation evening is due to take place in Alnwick Garden on Wednesday July 4, 2012.
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