IMPROVEMENTS have been made at a nature reserve thanks to a cash boost from the council.

Members of the Hollins Conservation Group installed new kissing gates and a new timber fence in Hollins Nature Reserve.

The group received £1,000 from Bury Council's The Pitch event in Prestwich in July last year and have used the money to spruce up the park.

Paul Robinson, Local Nature Reserves officer, said: “The money has been used to make some well overdue and welcome improvements to the footpath network through the nature reserve.

"It has also presented an opportunity for members of the conservation group to learn new skills like installing timber kissing gates, footpath revetments and post and rail fencing.

“The money from The Pitch has re-invigorated the group, and we now have 15-20 members who regularly work on the nature reserve. Having money available allows us to plan and perform the necessary maintenance on our beautiful site.”

The Hollins Conservation Group, which is now in its 20th year, runs a regular Thursday morning Green Gym Hit Squad which anyone can join.

The Hit Squad plant bulbs, clear the paths and litter pick as well as carry out improvements in Hollins village and on the reserve.

To find out more about the Hit Squad email louise.daveron@hotmail.co.uk.