The Revolution has begun!

Thursday, September 14th 2023

Well, the scything revolution at Foxglove Covert has begun, to be precise!

At the weekend we were delighted to host Steve Tomlin, sythe tutor, who led a 'Learn to Scythe' course for people keen to learn this skill. Six participants went through the process of setting up, learning about mowing and then they headed out to start cutting a strip of our wildflower meadow.

Steve also brought along four scythe kits, which we've purchased to improve the management of our grassland (though scythes are also excellent for controlling bracken and bramble - as well as helping to manage reedbeds too). On Tuesday, these new scythes were put to good use by Sue, Becky, Freddie, John, Peter and Emma, who showed that they all had the knack very quickly. Not only are scythes better for the environment in terms of reducing the use petrol, upon which strimmers and brush-cutters are dependent, but they also reduce annoying noise, fumes and make a lovely, clean cut through vegetation rather than chewing at stems with a nylon cord.

Watch this space as there will be more to come on our new use of a 3000 year old technology.

Thanks to all for being part of our new scything team!

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The Friends of Foxglove Covert is for those individuals, families and organisations who would like to support the reserve through an annual membership subscription. Friends receive a regular newsletter and invitations to attend our various activities and social events.

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Upcoming Events

Access to the Reserve: OPEN with limited access

Friday 20th September 2024 |

We are glad to announce that Foxglove Covert is reopening to the general public on Monday 7th October 2024.

A partial fix of the Foxglove Covert access gate has ensured that the safety features (sensors, emergency stop buttons) are now functional. This will allow safe access through the gate.

Unfortunately, the intercom and remote opening system by which the Guardroom normally opens the gate for entry and exit to the reserve is still inoperable. We do not have a timeframe for when this will be repaired.

Entry and exit to the reserve will therefore take place via key fobs which will be issued in exchange for photo ID (driving licence/passport) to visitors when they sign in at the Cambrai Lines front entrance. These fobs can be used to open the gate when entering and exiting the reserve. They must be returned to the front entrance pass office upon exiting the reserve.

Please note access will be limited by the number of fobs available. You may therefore be turned away at the pass office if all fobs are in use at that time. Please only collect one fob per visiting group and ensure you enter and exit the reserve together.

Please see below for organised events. Booking is essential, as attendees will be contacted with access arrangements ahead of the events.

If you are part of an organised group and would like to arrange a visit to the reserve, please contact reserve staff.

October Wildlife Wander

Thursday 10th October 2024 | 2pm-4pm

Join reserve staff for a guided walk around Foxglove Covert as the reserve begins to settle into autumn. Explore the reserve as tree leaves begin to change colour, migrating birds start to pass through, and fungi thrives throughout the reserve's grasslands and woodlands.

2pm-4pm.

Donation of £3 per person. Free for Friends of Foxglove. Booking essential.

Due to faults with the Foxglove Covert access gate, entry and exit will be coordinated and at set times. Booked attendees will be sent access arrangements via email prior to the event.

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