Sir, The Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust acquired the CS Lewis Nature Reserve in 1969 from Henry Stephens with the express wish that the site be managed for its wildlife interest.
The Trust has since managed the area for the enjoyment of local people of all ages and it has been particularly valuable for local school visits.
We are sorry to hear that Mr Brind does not agree with our work on the reserve, however we are a nature conservation charity and this will always be our first concern.
All our 90 nature reserves have management plans which set out how we will maintain the land for wildlife in years to come.
An essential part of looking after woodland is active management to make sure that there is regeneration in growth. In the past woodlands have been planted, harvested and grazed.
The work we carry out simulates these processes and encourages greater biodiversity allowing more types of plants to flourish, which in turn provide a greater variety of food sources for other species. The trees to which Mr Brind refers are a non-native species which are threatening to take over our ancient woodland.
They would not have been as old as 60 or 70 years as stated.
Sycamore is a fast-growing tree and the ones which we removed from the reserve would almost certainly not have been there in CS Lewis' day. They create deep shade and if left unchecked will eventually smother the wildlife in the pond.
We recognise that there has been a problem on the reserve with litter and people misusing the area and that is why we have been working with local residents to renew interest in this nature reserve. This is part of a longer-term project to revitalise the area and make it a more accessible place for visitors. Our plans include creating a circular path, installing new gates, steps and benches. Regular voluntary work parties have started doing this work as well as keeping rubbish to a minimum and creating vital wildlife habitats.
Our main purpose with the CS Lewis Nature Reserve is to ensure that it remains a haven for wildlife. This delightful nature reserve can only be protected and maintained through the dedication of Trust volunteers and staff and it is a shame that this vision is not shared by Mr Brind.
Sophie Lewis,Media and events officer, Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust
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