Askham Bog: A Living Legacy Turns 80

Askham Bog, a cherished North Yorkshire nature reserve, is marking its 80th anniversary this weekend. This celebration coincides with its reopening after a five-month closure.

During the closure, the boardwalk was replaced, essential management tasks were completed, and visitor facilities were enhanced. The Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, founded in 1946 to protect this site, is hosting public events.

These include guided walks, pond dipping, and a theatre production. The reserve is a haven for diverse species, from ancient ferns to numerous moths and common wildlife like robins and deer.

To honor the milestone, Yorkshire poet Ian McMillan has penned a celebratory poem. Half of this poem will be placed in a time capsule, to be unearthed in 70 years, ensuring the reserve's legacy continues.