A nature trail in Birkenhead is now open every day for 365 days a year.

A group of fifteen people are gathered outdoors in a sunny, green area surrounded by trees and grass. Most of them are standing, while three people sit on a wooden bench at the front. The group consists of mostly older men and one woman. Several people are wearing bright blue polo shirts with a small green-and-yellow circular logo, suggesting they are part of a community or volunteer group.Some of the standing men are holding garden spades or shovels, and most are dressed casually in shorts, t-shirts, and outdoor shoes. The seated man in the middle wears a dark suit with a patterned tie and a ceremonial gold chain around his neck, indicating he may be a local mayor or official. The woman next to him wears a patterned dress and sunglasses, smiling toward the camera. Everyone appears cheerful and relaxed, enjoying the moment in what looks like a community or conservation project in a natural setting.
Volunteers from Prenton RUFC, National Grid and Prenton (photo credits: Mike Coffin)

Prenton RUFC and National Grid have teamed up in a 10-year partnership to create the nature trail and restore the natural beauty of Prenton Dell Claypit.

The area, located behind Prenton RUFC Community Hub, is woodland with numerous habitats, being home to a variety of birds and butterflies, as well as species such as great crested newts.

Brian Kenny, Mayor of Wirral, said: “The aim here is to create an area of biodiversity that is not only good for nature but also the local community and that is fantastic.”

The project has been split into multiple stages with guidance from Wirral Wildlife, the first of which was the installation of gravel paths.

A butterfly is resting quietly among blades of green grass in a natural outdoor setting. Its wings are partially open, revealing a striking contrast in colors and patterns. The upper section of the wings is a vivid orange, adorned with a bold black-and-white eyespot that resembles a watchful eye. This marking stands out sharply against the surrounding hues. The lower portion of the wings fades into a soft grayish-brown, speckled with delicate white spots that give it a textured appearance. The butterfly's body is covered in fine, fuzzy hairs, and its slender antennae curve gently forward. The surrounding grass is lush and fresh, with thin blades crisscrossing in the background, creating a peaceful and intimate view of this small creature in its natural habitat.
A butterfly at the Penton Nature Trail (photo credit: Mike Coffin)

The site can now be used by eco-schools, local scout groups as well as dog-walkers and mental health groups, to build on the community in the area.

Kenny said: “I would like to say a big thank you to all the volunteers connected with this project.”

This announcement comes as Prenton Rugby Club are about to complete their £1million club development project to create a community hub.

Featured image: Mike Coffin

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