Gavin Williamson, MP for South Staffordshire, celebrated all things Perton when he attended Wild About Perton’s 10th anniversary at Perton’s Spring Festival, at Perton Library.
The Spring Festival had 1,500 attendees who enjoyed a range of activities which celebrated the environment and the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death. The Festival was organised by Wild About Perton in partnership with Staffordshire Library Service and South Staffordshire Council.
From the various conservation groups in attendance, Gavin met with the Staffordshire Mammal Group who spoke about animals who live in the meadowland around the Upper Lake, Perton and the Owl & Falconry Centre, who had a display of hawks and owls.
Following from his work with hedgehogs Gavin met with volunteers from West Midlands Hedgehog Rescue who introduced their new hedgehog ambassador, Freddy.
Other wildlife activities included, meeting the moths with Butterfly Conservation, forest crafts with Forest of Mercia, badge-making with the RSPB and caring for swans, geese and ducks with the RSPCA an added opportunity learning more about bee hotels with Staffs Wild Bee Group.
As a special tribute to mark 10 years, local wood and stone sculptor, Robot Cossey made a wood carving of a badger throughout the day, which will be installed locally on display to the public.
After the event Gavin commented: “The Perton Spring Festival is always such a great day out for families and this year was made extra special by the 10th anniversary of the festival beginning and all the activities organised by the library for the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death.
“It was brilliant to meet all members who care for our environment and I would really like to pay tribute to Wild About Perton who brought together such a wonderful collection of different wildlife groups. This fantastic community group who do so much for the local environment ensuring that Perton goes from strength to strength for residents and visitors to enjoy.”