VOLUNTEERS who run one of Ellesmere’s most popular visitor attractions have launched an urgent fundraising appeal after failing to qualify for a major grant.

Organisers of Heronwatch, a long-established bird-watching project alongside the Mere, thought they had already reached their target to install a new multi-camera video system by raising nearly £21,000 through crowdfunding.

But now they have been told that an expected £20,000 of match-funding from the Shropshire Green Spaces and Active Travel Fund will not be available as the scheme does not fully meet the criteria.

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“This is deeply, disappointing,” said Heronwatch chairman Edward Bevan, who leads the small team of volunteers who run the project, giving visitors to the Boathouse at Ellesmere an opportunity to enjoy close-up views of a large colony of nesting herons on nearby island on the Mere.

“We thought we’d ticked all the boxes to qualify for the money, but we’ve missed out because our scheme doesn’t involve creating new green space.”

Heronwatch was established 30 years ago and has become one of the most popular wildlife attractions in north Shropshire, drawing in hundreds of visitors annually.

But after exposure to the elements all-year-round, most of the 15 video cameras are now out of action and only one gives a good image of the nesting birds and their chicks.

The deadline for fundraising runs out in several weeks, but Mr Bevan, who has been involved in the project from the start, is not giving up hope.

“Our aim is to install replacement cameras later this year in readiness for the start of the breeding season in February,” he said.

“But although we now have a huge black hole in our appeal, it’s not over yet. It’s a setback, but we intend to step up the fundraising.

“We have been around the local shops, businesses and organisations to raise more money, and we are contacting our neighbours and family members to plead with them too.

“We have also attended Ellesmere Market for the last five weeks to publicise the appeal, and to raise donations.

“If anyone would like to make a donation to our appeal, please follow the link to the crowd-funding website at www.spacehive.com/ellesmere-heronwatch-camera-system/ and share share it with your friends.”

Mr Bevan added: “Heronwatch provides a unique wildlife opportunity by enabling visitors to explore the hidden world of tree-top nests.

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“It provides social interaction with knowledgeable friendly volunteers. It provides the joy of learning something new, and developing a new, sometimes lifelong, interest in the natural world for both adults and children.

“It also affords the opportunity of becoming a volunteer for the project. Engagement with nature provides benefits for mental health as well as boosting tourism and the local economy.”

For more information, please Edward Bevan on 01691 622838 or e mail ellesmereheronwatch@gmail.com