The group committee is constantly monitoring the changes to government policy with respect to Covid. We have noted the proposed changes coming later in July and, subject to them being confirmed, the committee is planning to meet in late July or early August to plan a way forward that both meets government guidelines and is considered safe for our members, recognising that the RSPB may have a viewpoint on what we can do.

The committee will be planning for a return to normal business from September 2021. We are hoping to produce an annual newsletter in August and the proposed first meeting in September will be a catchup AGM to tidy up group business and there will also probably be a presentation.

From September, we plan to start the collection of group membership subscriptions. The level of subscription may be subject to ratification by the AGM. The committee will also plan a programme of indoor and outdoor events for the period September 2021 – May 2022.

Please note that because of circumstances this may all change but we feel the need to prepare plans to start up our normal business arrangements as soon as possible.

Further reports will be provided on this website.

Members are reporting that they have seen hedgehogs in their gardens. Below is a video of one, late at night, in a member’s garden.

At the moment we have been advised by the RSPB not to conduct any branch activities before December 31st at the earliest. The RSPB is reviewing the situation on a monthly basis and will be making a further report on September 1st.

We are sad to report that Sally Sinclair, a founder member of the group has died at the age of 99. Her cremation will be at Doncaster Crematorium on Wednesday 12th August at 3pm.

As you probably know, all group activities have ceased with the exception of the committee working together remotely. See the events section of this website for further details.

The recent wet weather has caused problems on some nature reserves. In particular, can you note that the Tophill Low site is closed until at least April.

At the time of writing there is considerable development work going off at Old Moor thanks to a National Lottery funding grant. I went yesterday and there is restricted parking available due to work improving the car park area. Don’t let it put you off going and just park safely where you can.

New car parking meters have been installed at RSPB Fairburn and RSPB St Aidans. They only take cards for payment. If you don’t have a card then go to reception. You need to display both your receipt and your RSPB membership card near your windscreen. RSPB members can park for free but you still need to get a receipt from the machine.