Nature Watch, with RON FREETHY

I ENJOY my annual (at least!) winter visit to Martin Mere at which time up to 20,000 pink-footed geese roost on the reserve.

This is why nobody should rush to leave but wait for dusk when huge numbers of wildfowl come in from all over Lancashire.

They know that Martin Mere is a safe roost and there is no risk of being shot as dawn approaches.

Over the Christmas period as many as 1,000 whooper swans as well as some Bewick swans are found on the reserve. These and lots of other birds can be seen from most of the numerous hides sited around the 360-acre (144 hectare) site.

There is a theatre, laboratories, cafe and a shop obviously specialising in bird books which always helps me to keep up with my reading. Martin Mere is the place to learn your birdwatching and is very welcoming for the young naturalist. In most of the hides there are drawings or photographs to help with identification while the shop sells inexpensive aids to the common species.

Whatever the weather or the season a visit to Martin Mere is always a joy.

Situated between Burscough and Southport and easily reached from the A59 Preston to Liverpool road, Martin Mere is a must for birdwatchers.

The reserve, splendidly run by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust, can also be reached via the M6. Turn off at Junction 26 and follow the signs for Parbold and then Rufford. The reserve is well signed.