Harriett Baldwin last week (Fri) paid a visit to a new nature reserve created on the land used to build local flood defences. The John Bennett Nature Reserve at Manor Farm, Birlingham is being developed following the removal of a large amount of clay to provide for Pershore’s flood defences. The 24 hectare site is part of an ongoing project along the River Avon to protect the habitats of important local wildlife. A new hide has been built where bird-watchers can monitor birdlife. Harriett commented: “Flood defences are very important to protect local homes and businesses. It is interesting to see here how the Environment Agency worked together with Natural England so that the area got not only a flood defence but also a nature reserve. The clay travelled by barge along the River Avon, thus minimising the environmental impact.”