On Saturday September 29th a celebration took place to mark 21 years as a nature reserve for Blanchman's Farm, Warlingham.

Back in 1991 the area was under threat from a potential housing development but was rescued and made into a community wildlife area for all to enjoy.

Around 300 people including many children attended the birthday celebration. They enjoyed pond dipping, bug hunts, guided tours around the site as well as children's craft activities.

There were displays showing how the site has been developed over the 21 years including 'then' and 'now' pictures. Many were visiting for the first time and were amazed at how large the area is.

Cllr. David Hodge, Leader of Surrey County Council, and Cllr. Sakina Bradbury, Chairman of Tandridge District Council, both attended and spoke in support of the work done by everyone on the Nature Reserve, committee and volunteers, and the importance of having such facilities in the area. Alex Baxter-Brown, chairman of the Blanchman's Farm Nature Reserve management committee and project manager at Downlands Countryside Management Project, also spoke, describing how the Downlands Project provides the essential expertise for the maintenance and management of the area. They then cut the 21st birthday cake and free refreshments were available all afternoon.

A work party to do practical conservation work is held on the second Saturday morning of each month. All are welcome. See www.blanchmansfarm. org for more information.