A RARE fen marsh in Redditch has been developed into a haven for wildlife following 12 months of conservation work, writes Becky Procter.

Ipsley Alders Nature Reserve, in Winyates Green, has been transformed with the help of Worcestershire Wildlife Trust and residents.

During the last few months, a new footbridge has been installed and the first section of a boardwalk has gone down.

Hazel trees have been cut back on the site to encourage wild flowers like violets, white-flowered garlic and bluebells to grow.

And last month, the volunteers caught a rare glimpse of a sparrowhawk hunting and catching a jay in the reserve.

Volunteers meet up on the first Sunday of every month to carry out conservation work on the site and more people are needed.

Anyone wanting to help can pop along to Winyates Green Community Centre on Sunday from 10am.