TWO new benches have been installed at the Silver Street Nature Reserve in Midsomer Norton - offering visitors a place to sit and enjoy the area.
Silver Street Nature Reserve has been open for about nine years, supported by a team of nine volunteers. It features a woodland, a spring-fed pond, and a meadow, with well-maintained interpretive signage.
The benches were funded by a cake sale organised by Rota Kids from St John’s Primary School with contributions coming from members and donations.
RotaKids is a program for children aged 7-12 that gives them the opportunity to make new friends and get involved in community activities. With support from schools, youth groups, and local Rotary clubs, children can learn new skills while making a difference in their community.
The reserve is popular with the public and local groups, including Scouts and Duke of Edinburgh Award participants. Funding comes from grants and the local community trust.
The Trust has set up cameras in the reserve to help with ongoing vandalism. Any incidents of antisocial behaviour are reported to the police, who are collaborating with the council. Although the reserve has experienced some vandalism, there is hope that the benches will be strong enough to withstand further damage.