WELNEY S Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust, Welney has launched it programme of summer walks Visitors are now able to explore what, for most of the year, are inaccessible areas of the Welney Wetland Centre reserve. Two miles of paths will be created across mead

WELNEY'S Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust, Welney has launched it programme of summer walks

Visitors are now able to explore what, for most of the year, are inaccessible areas of the Welney Wetland Centre reserve.

Two miles of paths will be created across meadows that are often under water for many months of the year.

To help identify the large numbers of dragonflies, butterflies, birds and other creatures, discovery trails will be set out along the way.

Visitors are invited to bring a picnic and take a break at the benches and tables overlooking the River Delph.

The main summer holiday programme starts on the July 22 and runs daily until 3 September.

A wide range of drop-in activities are planned throughout the period including trails and pond dipping. There will also be special guided sessions available every weekend.

Each Tuesday the centre's learning manager will be leading family workshops where visitors can find out more about the reserve and also join in some hands-on sessions. Advanced booking is required.

"Most people know what a wonderful place Welney is because they have visited us in the winter to see a floodlit swan feed, but it's just as exciting at this time of year," said learning manager, Sarah Graves.

"Our Fen Tiger's Tale event on 13 August is ideal for families to find out about how people lived and worked on the Fens in days gone by and children will be able to dress up and take part."

The new eco-friendly visitor centre and reserve are open each day from 10am to 5pm including the Fenland Worlds room, Wigeon Café and gift shop. For information contact 01353 860711 or visit the website at www.wwt.org.uk/visit/ welney/