STAFF at a nature reserve near Whitchurch have been thanked for their 'hard work' in improving the site and helping biodiversity.

Simon Baynes, MP for Clwyd South, visited Fenns, Whixall and Bettisfield Mosses Natural Nature Reserve, which sits on the border between England and Wales, recently.

While he was there he met with Robert Duff, the project manager for the Marches Mosses BogLIFE project, and Peter Bowyer and they discussed the importance of the nature reserve.

Natural Resources Wales and Natural England have been restoring the bog since 1991 by preserving the bog, conserving rare bog wildlife and safeguarding against future climate change.

The site has a variety of plant and animal species, including the recording of over 180 different species of bird.

Mr Baynes praised the restoration work, thanked teams for their hard work and for improving the reserve and was pleased the nature reserve is encouraging people to visit with a viewing platform from which the reserve can be viewed.

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He said: "It was great to visit the Fenn’s, Whixall and Bettisfield Mosses National Nature Reserve that sits on the border between Wales and England.

"It was interesting to learn about the history of the bogs and about the damage that had previously been caused by drainage for peat cutting, agriculture and forestry at the mosses.

"I was extremely impressed to find out about the restoration that has taken place since 1991 to ensure that different plants and wildlife are able to flourish and would like to thank everyone involved for their hard work in making this happen.

"I would strongly recommend visiting the Nature Reserve as it is a remarkable and fascinating place."

Mr Duff said it was a pleasure to welcome Mr Baynes.

He added: "It was a pleasure to welcome Mr Baynes to the nature reserve and to show him the work we are undertaking as part of the BogLIFE project to restore our hugely important peatland habitat."