| A new wildlife trail is being launched at Lower Lliw reservoir, bringing to life the beautiful wood carvings installed earlier this year; with activity sheets providing a fun way to learn about some of the creatures that call Lliw home. Carved out of Welsh oak, Swansea sculpture artist Ami Marsden created eight sculptures which now sit along the new wildlife trail around the reservoirs. The carvings include pipistrelle bats, a rabbit, a grey heron, a trout, a hedgehog, an otter, an owl and a red kite.
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The production of the activity sheets has been possible thanks to a grant received from Welsh Government’s Brilliant Basics Fund. Other improvements planned for younger visitors this winter include an activity station to encourage learning through imaginative play; and the refurbishment of the playground to create an inspiring natural play area for children.
 Vicky Martin, Head of Visitor Attraction Strategy at Welsh Water, said “we are delighted to have been awarded a Brilliant Basics grant. Playing outdoors in natural environments benefits all areas of children’s development as well having a positive effect on their overall health and wellbeing.”  Former teacher Jayne Thomas, who runs Lliw Café with husband David, created the activity trail sheets. Jayne, who still has a passion for education, said: “I love to inspire learning and the activity sheets are packed with ideas on ways you can enjoy spending time in nature whilst finding out about the wildlife at Lliw.” Featuring the eight wildlife sculptures along the route, the activity sheets include a fact file and a worksheet with additional fun activities to try. Each sculpture also has a plaque with etchings of what the creature eats and footprints to look out for along the way that can be used to create rubbings .  Available in Welsh and English, the FREE activity sheets can be collected from Lliw Café which is open daily 9am – 4pm until the end of October, then 9am – 3pm from November to February. The café offers visitors a great stop for lunch or to grab a cuppa, offering a friendly welcome and a fabulous gift shop with locally made crafts. To find out more visit: Lliw Cafe The car park at Lower Lliw Reservoir is open daily 8am – dusk. Check for closing times on arrival at the entrance to the site. |
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