2025 Annual Report

It has been another busy year on the nature reserve. Nothing seems to change that much but as the seasons go by many changes are happening and when you walk around there is always something different to see.

Our events programme was again well supported. It culminated with the Indoor Open Meeting in November, with presentations about The Woodland Trust and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Reaching out to other organisations has continued to be a feature, locally with the Cub Scouts and St Matthews, and across the city with the Green Spaces Forum and the Derby Nature Collective. A series of articles about Nutwood through the seasons by Andy Butterton were published in the Parish Magazine.

The work of Derby Parks Volunteers on clearance, maintenance and general improvements ensured that the reserve is accessible throughout the year, although wellies are recommended in wet weather! Thanks to them and also Derbyshire Wildlife Trust for placing the much-loved cattle on the reserve in October and November so natural grazing could take place.

We welcomed a new liaison officer from Derby City Council, Megan Granthier, to replace Dave Winslow. Many thanks to Dave and best wishes in his new role. Megan will be working with the Management Committee to ensure that planned improvements take place and to lead us in developing a new Management Plan in the coming year for implementation from 2027. It was pleasing to note that the reserve retained its Green Flag status, an acknowledgement of the hard work and support from so many.

After four very successful years producing a calendar for the nature reserve, Andy Butterton (photos) and Jo Watson (graphics) decided to have a break this year due to other commitments. In recognition of their brilliant work, Andy and Jo were nominated for a Green Heart Award organized by the Derby Green Spaces Forum to recognize the contribution of volunteers to Derby’s green spaces. Sadly, Andy has also stood down from the Management Committee. We continue to seek new members for the Management Committee, particularly those with knowledge of birds and insects.

We retain a modest but sufficient sum of money to use to enhance the nature reserve. We have committed to purchase additional wildlife cameras and to setting up Fixed Point Photography.

I am very grateful for the support I receive from members of the Management Committee and also from Derby City Council Parks Department, the Derby Parks Volunteers, members of the News Group and all our supporters locally. Together we can ensure that the nature reserve remains a great place to visit. It is a hidden jewel right on our doorstep. Please use it and spread the word to family and friends.