Pond recognised as one of the best in country

Volunteers marked the occasion at a successful open day held recently at the pond.

Sheila Wilkinson said: “ The volunteers are thrilled. This award is recognition of the work we do. It is a case of keeping on top of the maintenance here. A high standard of maintenance is needed to win the award as this is a public space for everyone to enjoy.”

It was a double celebration for Selsey. Its Manor Park has won a Green Pennant award.

The park and East Beach pond are both cared for by two teams of volunteeers who are part of the Manhood Wildlife and Heritage Group.

This group cares for the various habitats across the Manhood Peninsula where wildlife can flourish. Some sites may be home to rare species, others form a network of rich and diverse habitats, which are managed by local volunteers of all ages and abilities.

Volunteers may participate in fieldwork, conservation projects, in the development of the initiatives to combat climate change, all helping to safeguard the unique qualities of the Manhood Peninsula.

The work of the group has been acknowledged with various awards, including the National Green Apple Award for Conservation in 2006, the Silver Gilt award for South East in Bloom in 2008 and 2009 for East Beach Pond, an outstanding award in Neighbourhood categories for a sensorary garden at Manor Green Park last year and the Queen’s Aard for Voluntary Service this year.