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Local school children cut the ribbon at launch of stunning new wildlife walk!

We are thrilled to announce the launch of a stunning new walk at Thrupp Lake in Radley, Oxfordshire. The Thrupp Lake Circular Walk is a one-mile (1.7km) route taking in breathtaking lakeside scenery. The walk was  officially opened on 17th June 2011 and marked by a community celebration, ribbon cutting ceremony, guided walks and exciting family activities.

Thrupp Lake - a haven for wetland wildlife

Lorretta Waters, Neighbourhood Wildlife Warden at the Earth Trust said: “Thrupp Lake is a haven for wetland wildlife and this new walk provides a unique opportunity to enjoy an amazing range of birds and wild flowers up close, so we’re thrilled to be opening it to the public. The local community has been the driving force behind the project, so the walk’s launch is also the perfect opportunity to say thank you to the local people and the funders.”

The project is being led by the Earth Trust, with support from the landowners RWE npower and project funding from South Oxfordshire LEADER project and is part of the Trust’s ambitious multi-phase project to develop Thrupp Lake and its surroundings into a haven for wildlife and a valuable local resource.

Jim Haggan of RWE npower, who own the site, said: “We are really pleased to be partners in this project.  This walk and the signage will make the site more accessible for local people.”

Kate Forrest of Southern Oxfordshire LEADER said: “The Southern Oxfordshire LEADER programme is all about supporting rural communities and strengthening the local economy.  This project has helped provide access and an engaging experience for visitors to the site and has been designed through consultation with the local community.”

A beautiful green oasis can be enjoyed all year round

Thrupp Lake is a beautiful green oasis that can be enjoyed all year round (apart from 3rd January). In spring, visitors can look out for herons, cygnets and kingfishers. In summer, dragonflies dart over the lake, while orchids can be found at the water’s edge. Come autumn, the landscape is transformed as the leaves change into a multitude of hues, before the lake becomes a magical winter wetland visited filled with overwintering birds.

Visitors can wander wander out across the lake via a new 25-metre boardwalk and explore the new bird hide - an ideal hideaway for spotting birds including great crested grebe, tufted duck and kingfisher.

 

Download Thrupp Lake Walk press release