St Andrew’s Church in Witchford is delighted to receive the Silver Churchyard Conservation Award from the Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire.

The judge, Anne Page, commented on the team’s achievements.

Especially noticeable after two years work since the team were given the Bronze award, were the native wildflowers in the summer flower area at the back of the churchyard, which were doing very well and the additional seeding with yellow rattle, plus an appropriate mowing regime, was beginning to successfully suppress the grass.

She was pleased to see the fox and cubs plants present and thriving.

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She commented that the laid hedges were excellent as were the newly planted fruit trees and honeysuckle.

She noticed that the new lavender bed will be very attractive and good for pollinators.

The 6 seats situated around the churchyard made it feel a welcoming place.

The newly installed platform with a large rainwater container for collection from the roof gutters was excellent and she was pleased to see that it is being used for watering.

She liked the Black Gorehound nettles.

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The bug hotel and the stone snake have been successful in developing the involvement of local young people in the churchyard.

She noticed that the identification of plant species was developing. She was impressed with the very successful moth survey.

Finally, she said that the sense of teamwork, enthusiasm and increasing knowledge of the aims and management of the churchyard make this a worthy candidate for the silver award.