Green Flag Award 2026/2027 - Friends of Saintbridge Pond Nature Reserve

11 Aug

11Aug

The Green Flag Award has long aligned with the philosophy of the Friends of Saintbridge Pond Volunteers FOSPNR) and Saintbridge Allotment Gardens Association (SAGA) : our work is not undertaken for personal recognition, but to deliver clear, lasting benefits for the wider community and everyone who uses the reserve. I will return to that principle later. As the current FOSP Chair, I am immensely proud of the dedication shown by our regular volunteers, as well as the ongoing encouragement we receive from local supporters and the practical collaboration offered by our partners.

At the centre of everything we do is our management plan-a carefully developed framework refined over time through consultation, observation, and hands-on experience. Working closely together, we use this plan to guide day-to-day maintenance and longer-term improvements to the reserve, from habitat protection and path management to safeguarding the site’s overall character and accessibility. We also remain responsive to urgent or unforeseen issues, including emergency works, seasonal damage, and the practical challenges our members sometimes need to address at short notice. Looking ahead, we are particularly focused on strengthening and enhancing the woodland spinney as an early priority, recognising its importance for biodiversity, shelter, and the overall health of the landscape. As the year progresses, new challenges inevitably emerge-whether related to weather impacts, invasive species, litter, infrastructure wear, or changing patterns of public use-and we adapt our approach accordingly while remaining consistent with our agreed objectives. I would also like to acknowledge and commend FOSP’s progress over its 30-year journey, reflecting sustained commitment, resilience, and community spirit since the group began operating.

In relation to the Green Flag Award, I have included a couple of links to articles that illustrate why Saintbridge Balancing Pond matters so much to local people. This highlights its value as a green space for wellbeing, learning, wildlife, and shared community pride.

Here is a link to the wider story behind the award. https://www.greenflagaward.org/

Well done to everyone in the county who received this award.

And to finish, here is our celebration, at Saintbridge Balancing Pond but also the nature reserve.