Walk on the wild side

Spectacular walks, finding reptiles and searching for marine life were among the highlights of St Madoc Centre’s recent Gower Wildlife Holiday.

Held in conjunction with A Rocha UK, the break included a talk on Psalm 104 entitled Wild World, Wild God by A Rocha UK founder Dave Bookless.

HABITAT PLAN

This was also attended by local people from the area. In addition, birdwatching, a visit to Rhossili and picking blackberries were part of the varied programme of activities.

Part of A Rocha UK’s Partners In Action network, St Madoc Centre is situated on Gower – Britain’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. ‘With rolling hills dotted with patchwork fields and woodland, stony outcrops jutting through the green grass, north Gower is a beautiful place to visit or stay,’ said Conservation Ranger Sarah Leedham.

Sarah used to live in Southall, working with A Rocha UK on Minet Country Park. Her role at St Madoc includes implementing the habitat management plan, wildlife surveying, making connections with local people and vegetable growing.

HIGH TIDE

‘North Gower is less visited by tourists than the areas around Rhossili, Mumbles and Oxwich, meaning that even in summer our beaches – and those close to us – have fewer visitors,’ Sarah explained. ‘Close by is Llanrhidian Marsh, a protected and very rare habitat. Flooded at high tide, the plants and animals living here have to be tolerant of high levels of salt.’

Gower has many other places ideal for visitors – from castles like Weobley, Pennard and Oxwich, to cafes, ancient churches, Iron Age standing stones and a heritage centre. Watch out for St Madoc Centre’s Volunteering Holiday to be held in April 2017. See their website for details or email.