AFTER 12 months of clearing, conserving, restoring and reshaping, Morwellham Nature Day will celebrate the re-launch of the Morwellham Nature Reserve on Sunday. 

The reserve is home to rare wildlife, plants and habitats — all within easy walking distance of the great facilities at the Morwellham Quay's 'living museum', which now offers free access for all.

Covering more than 27 acres of precious wetland, wet woodland and riverbanks, the reserve is home to an astonishing array of uncommon and beautiful birds, such as the reed warbler, sedge warbler and reed bunting.  Other wetland birds, such as the moorhen and water rail may also be spotted from one of the bird hidden hides.   Herons and kingfishers on the riverbanks can also be spotted from the new riverside ropewalk.

Fran Walker, interpretation officer for the Tamar Valley Mining Heritage Project, said: 'We now have an established and much-loved reserve that uses really innovative details to add to the experience. 

'Arc Creative have worked closely with the project team to produce really exciting pieces throughout the reserve, including a dynamo bird-caller, a beautiful green oak gateway and a giant dragonfly to mark the pathway. 

'Regional artist Serena De la Hey is currently working on a new sculpture that will change and grow over time – something people will be able to visit again and again, and always see something new.'

Rosemary Teverson, project manager for the Tamar Valley AONB has worked with Richard Halliwell, estate manager at Morwellham, and other local partners, to enhance the special habitats within the Tamar Estuaries Special Area of Conservation (SAC). 

Rosemary said: 'The Morwellham Nature Reserve and farm offer a wonderful and accessible experience for everyone.  Looking out from the hides onto the marshy wilderness you would not believe you are so close to urban areas like Plymouth and Tavistock.'

Morwellham's original Victorian Farm, Heritage Orchard and Nature Reserve have all been greatly improved as part of the multi-million pound Tamar Valley Mining Heritage Project, which aims to make the area's cultural history more accessible to the public. Treasured, ancient landmarks have been restored, while conserving the flora and fauna that has grown up around them, and new artwork and interpretation have been installed.

The farm has undergone a major refurbishment, resulting in a new education room and improved facilities around the stables and surrounding paddocks.

In celebration of this special place, visitors are invited to the Reserve on Morwellham Nature Day to join in a range of workshops for all ages and abilities.

Nic Ridley, a wood artist known for his naturally inspired sculptures, will be holding three workshops during the day.  

Elsewhere on the Reserve, Dartmoor-based MED Theatre will be weaving stories based on the folklore, history and the natural environment in their 'Farmer Drama' workshops. 

Jemma Sharman, community development officer for the Tamar Valley Mining Heritage Project, said: 'MED Theatre work with school and community groups all the time, cultivating an interest in drama and storytelling that will last a lifetime.  The workshops are created around the ideas of the young people who take part.  The groups lead the way and will be inspired to make their own plays and stories from the nature and history all around them.'

Each workshop costs just £3 per person. 

For those who just want to come and enjoy the tranquility and rich biodiversity of this beauty spot, the Morwellham Wildlife Trail follows a 3km circular route on easy-going footpaths, and like the rest of Morwellham Quay, is free to access (a small parking fee applies).

For more information or to book your place on one of the workshops, please call 01822 835030.