Dr David Bellamy opening Fowlmead

Not only did the weather vary between drizzle and heavy rain, but...

the fact that the car park was little more than a muddy field more than a mile from the main event, served by a bus service that was rather less than frequent and put off many people.

Dr David Bellamy talks about the Environment

However, with the place only aiming to open between 9am and 6pm on Saturdays and Sundays, according to the signboard at the entrance where there were also some rather makeshift and non-standard signs about the car parking facilities. these resulted in many vehicles turning in towards the park in the direction indicated by the main, standard road sign as you approach from the direction of Sandwich, as I did.

At this point the vehicles were turned back and directed straight across the roundabout where, well over half a mile later you came across a couple of areas that were relatively muddy due to the weather. A couple of stewards with a few small road cones indicated that this was where you were supposed to park.

Dr David Bellamy trying to work up some enthusiasm for the rather damp event.

It was obvious by the number of cars doing 360's, that I wasn't the only one. Considering the amount of money that has been poured into the place, with new roads and roundabouts, and the fact that it won't be accessible in the early mornings or evenings when most wildlife is active, it does not seem to be a very well thought out project for genuine wildlife and birdwatching enthusiasts!