October 18 2015.

Jim Skinner reports:


Friends of Tide Mills completed its October meeting today. Eleven of us collected seven bags of litter, continuing the gradual reduction that we have experienced over this year, which is obviously very heartening for us. This is undoubtedly due also in no small part to the many visitors who, like us, want to see Tide Mills in its best light and well cared for and who make the time to help keep the area clear of rubbish. This joint effort makes all the difference and is essential to ensure Tide Mills continues to be this fantastic, quiet space for all.

In terms of the new bird arrivals the first Redshanks can be seen on the Mill Creek feeding in the mud. A Turnstone was been seen patrolling the shoreline and Black Headed Gulls in winter plumage can be seen also on Mill Creek, along with Little Egrets. Oyster Catchers are also in the area.

The Phase 1 port expansion work is scheduled to start  on the 1st of November when the reptile barriers are due to be replaced by permanent fencing. Access to the East Pier will be maintained during this work, unless for temporary safety reasons access is not possible due to plant movements. The plans for conservation improvements by way of mitigation of loss of open space continue to be developed, which we as the FOTM are very much involved with.

Next month's meeting is Sunday the 15th of November - always the third Sunday of the month. We meet between 10.00am and 12 noon, but any time that can be spared is appreciated just the same. Tide Mills continues to need as many people as possible to help maintain it and care for it. You will be made most welcome if you do decide to join us in the bracing (and still free!) sea air.

More information from me at brian.skinner2@btinternet.com or our website at www.friendsoftidemills.webs.com