Dinner & Speaker Gareth Fulton, Elmley National Nature Reserve

Gareth provided an interesting overview of the Nature Reserve which is based in a 3,200 estate on the Isle of Sheppey situated away from the bustle of North Kent. 

It is a vast wilderness with spectacular landscape and breath-taking wildlife providing a truly inspirational escape.  There are four hides all offering different views – the first being an open air screen on the sea wall to view the rafts and wildfowl on the Swale.  The others known as Wellmarsh, Counterwell and South Fleet are all a mile further away.  They overlook the shallow pools which can be filled with thousands of wading birds; whilst at the far end of the reserve the remote spit end hide overlooks the Swale estuary in a wonderful remote and tranquil spot. 

It was a fascinating exposition which most members were pleased to understand was situated close by and a place to visit in the future.  Gareth was thanked for his interesting and encouraging presentation.