Troopers Hill, Bristol
From bramble and scramble to broom with a view...
In 2006 the friends of Troopers Hill received their largest grant to date of £9,984 from the Big Lottery Fund and over the past year have been working hard to improve their local nature reserve.
The people
The Friends of Troopers Hill established in 2004 are a dedicated bunch of people, tirelessly working to improve and develop the site. Susan Acton-Campbell helped make it happen.
I've met loads of new people, many more than if I hadn't been involved and I've found out all about plants, insects, wildlife and the history of the site."
Work parties take place every month bringing people together to help the wildlife on the site and repair fences and steps. Events are also arranged frequently throughout the year.
"It's great to see families enjoying the space. We've had kids making bird boxes and a brass band picnic. We've even given a talk at the local nursing home for those who can't get out."
The place
Listed chimney dominates the landscape
Troopers Hill is on a hillside overlooking the River Avon that has been quarried and mined in the past. The hill contains a fascinating mix of history, wild plants and animals. With heather and broom, rocky crags, spoil heaps and gullies,stunning views and two listed chimneys, Troopers Hill is one of the most spectacular wildlife spots in the city.
The Friends of Troopers Hill have helped to give the hill a new lease of life. Wildlife is flourishing as is the broom and purple heather that thrive on the acid soil.
The Grant
The Friends of Troopers Hill were delighted with the funds they received and split it between a number of projects. A large part of the money was used to produce leaflets to help publicise the site. A series of surveys was also done to increase the knowledge of the site's wildlife.
There were lots of opportunities for everyone to get involved, including a 'Bugs and Beasties' event in the summer for all the family. There was also a series of workshops to help learn to identify the many different flora and fauna that thrive in the unique environment of the hill.
