Wednesday, February 22, 2006

High Royd Ringing Records

As far as the GBN goes, Ringstone Res. has been a successful community environmental project (see Nick's post, 18th February) and we were pleased to raise the majority of the grant aid. It fits well alongside another two Yorkshire Water projects we have, one of which is leasing a 34 acre Sewage Works in Wakefield. We're also running a Balsam Eradication research project. We are now looking for new conservation opportunities and hope to have firm news of a Pennine Haymeadows project (with knock-on benefits for Twite and upland waders) in the near future. As part of working up a large Lottery bid, I've been looking over the old '50s ringing records for High Royd SF which we were able to access thanks to Colin Shields. These are a great read and a precious archive. For at least the next month they are in the safe-keeping of Green Business Network at 5 Town Hall Street, Sowerby Bridge (faces you at the far end of Wharf Street, just before you go over the river bridge towards Ripponden, swimming pool/library just round the corner). This is now an open invitation for anyone to drop in during office hours to browse them. There is a copier available and unlimited tea/coffee! Someone is there most days usually Jim Porter (best to call ahead Tel. 01422 316661). Just mention my name - Nigel Oliver - and that the box file is on my desk. Nick Carter will confirm that dropping in is a relaxed affair. Happy reading.

2 comments:

Nick Carter said...

It is definately safe to say that without the input and support of GBN (and in particular Nigel) the Group would not have had the success it has with Ringstone and other projects, their help, knowledge of funding opportunities and general advice has been invaluable. I have had the pleasure of looking through the High Royd record books, they are fascinating and help document a very important part of the birding history of the Halifax area. For anyone who is not aware High Royd was one of the first (if not the first) inland ringing station in the country and included a fully operational Heligoland trap with large numbers of birds being ringed resulting in many interesting and valuable recoveries.
GBN Office visits always produce a warm welcome and the coffee's not bad either!

AndyC said...

Great reading indeed, 210 Yellow wagtails in 10 years,Whinchats ,Whitethroat and White wagtails as well.
Well worth a look.