After many years’ service, Richard Williams has just retired as a voluntary warden at Spinnies Aberogwen. He has been visiting the reserve every week, maintaining and refilling bird feeders outside the two hides – most often at his own expense. Watching the birds gives great pleasure to many visitors – including photographers, who are amazed to see woodland birds (including treecreeper, coal tits and even the very occasional hawfinch) at such close quarters.

Throughout his time with the Wildlife Trust, Richard has worked closely with our staff – helping to manage the reserve at regular work parties, improving the paths, putting up nest boxes and taking on additional DIY jobs. It is largely thanks to Richard that the Spinnies enjoys such a high reputation with members and visitors – we’re very lucky to have had him!

Although two more volunteers are taking over Richard’s specific role at Spinnies Aberogwen, you can help us continue his good work, too – not least by contributing to the cost of bird food!  Steve Ransome, the reserve’s volunteer warden, can tell you how – just drop him an email or visit the site’s unofficial facebook page (and marvel at the photos whilst you’re there …). 

General donations to the Wildlife Trust’s work can also be made via www.northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk/donate – thank you for anything you feel able to give!