THE concept was radical – to transform a 250-acre former quarry site alongside the M6 into a one of the region’s best environmental attractions.

But in just 12 months since Brockholes Nature Reserve opened in Samlesbury, it has quickly proved a winner.

With two national environmental awards already under its belt, the centre has been explored by 140,000 visitors from throughout East Lancashire and further afield.

An astonishingly large team of 205 volunteers is involved with the daily running and management of the complex which is attracting young and old alike.

In addition, the Lancashire Wildlife Trust, which operates Brockholes, says all targets and expectations have been exceeded for the number of feathered arrivals including lapwings and reed buntings.

Species which did not exist in the area a few years ago like the redshank have also made themselves at home.

We are privileged to have such a top-flight place here in East Lancashire and also for the role it plays in educating schoolchildren about the natural world.

For a comparatively low cost of £9.5million, we have a wildlife haven which will soon have an international reputation.