Summer 2023 at Landguard

Oh, what a whirlwind of excitement this summer has brought to Landguard Nature Reserve! The days of summer have been abuzz with energy, as this cherished haven of wilderness marked its 50th glorious year.

Landguard Nature Reserve made its dazzling debut at the renowned Felixstowe Carnival. The festival's heart raced to the rhythm of the Reserve's very pulse. A remarkable sight it was, as the Reserve's electric vehicle and trailer, dressed to the nines, paraded through the streets. Bedecked with a mesmerizing tapestry of scenes portraying the Reserve's diverse landscapes and charismatic wildlife, the entry evoked awe at every corner. Local artist extraordinaire, Soren Bone, wove her magic into four magnificent panels that depicted the Reserve's hidden gems – from the tranquil learning garden to the mysterious bat sanctuary, from the sprawling grasslands to the intriguing tank traps, not forgetting the iconic Landguard Point. But that's not all – the entry came alive with the whimsical touch of young artists from Colneis Junior School who cleverly created many colourful sea creatures. A colossal octopus, a mischievous spider, and a winsome seal danced in harmony, accompanied by a swirl of sparkling jellyfish umbrellas. The streets of Felixstowe transformed into a playground of imagination, as the Carnival-goers revelled in this vibrant tapestry of nature's marvels and immersed themselves in the captivating procession of splendid floats.

July's enchantment paved the way for August's grandeur, as the Reserve's 50th-anniversary celebration continued. A special Birthday Wildlife Discovery Day awaited, drawing families and nature enthusiasts into its embrace. Along the Willow Wildlife Sculpture Trail, a menagerie of awe-inspiring creatures came to life. A life-sized seal seemed poised to dive into the wild unknown, while a giant spider spun tales of mystery. A whimsical fox, masterfully crafted by local weaver Tracy Barritt-Brown, winked mischievously from its leafy hideout. The trail, a treasure map of imagination, guided visitors on a journey of discovery, weaving knowledge with adventure. There were mini-beast life cycles to explore, and under the guidance of the Ranger, a grand bug abode arose, a testament to shared dreams and teamwork. As the sea breeze carried giggles, marine mysteries were unravelled with British Divers Marine Life Rescue. Treasures of the sea, brought forth by the waves, met curious hands thanks to the intrepid Beach Bonkers. Feathered friends revealed their secrets with members of the Landguard Bird Observatory, while Caz Cockroft's nature crafting added artistic flair to the day. Local beekeeper Heather Carter whispered the secrets of honeybees, and the Coast Patrol team proudly showcased their vessel. Amidst giant floor games and the touch of JoJo's magic brush, faces blossomed with colours that mirrored the vibrant world around them.

Under the warmth of the sun, Landguard Nature Reserve's 50th year celebration was transformed into memories, as visitors of all ages revelled in the wonders of the wild.

A heartfelt thank you extends to all who contributed to making these events so special.