Member Article

Wildlife partnership flying high

Vine House Farm in Linconshire, the home of pioneering wildlife-friendly farmer Nicholas Watts and his family, grow 400 acres of bird seed, including 100 acres of sunflowers, and is a haven for a host of wildlife.

Fourth-generation farmer Nicholas has been working the land at Vine House Farm in Deeping St Nicholas, Lincolnshire, since he was a boy. His bird watching hobby became part of his work in 1992, leading to an MBE for his wildlife conservation work and wildlife-friendly farm management, and many other awards.

This month Northumberland Wildlife Trust, together with the other 46 wildlife trusts in the UK, is celebrating a flourishing 10 year partnership with Nicholas and his team, working together for wildlife.

By donating up to 5% of its sales to The Wildlife Trusts, Vine House Farm has raised over £1,250,000 to support wildlife conservation across the country and, in this region, the Northumberland charity has received £16,097 of that total amount.

Mike Pratt, Northumberland Wildlife Trust Chief Executive said: “The Watts family are true nature conservation leaders, and their incredible long- term support of Northumberland Wildlife Trust over the last year 10yrs has enabled us to feed not only birds, but everyone’s interest in local nature.

“We look forward to working with Nicholas and his family at Vine House Farm for many more years to come, and to celebrating how our relationship is helping to connect people with the natural world and benefit our precious wildlife and wild places. Through the support of Vine House Farm, all 47 Wildlife Trusts across the UK have been able to restore beautiful grasslands, conserve ancient woodlands, and protect wetland habitats.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sue Bishop .