While the hay crop is growing in June/July, please keep to the edge of the fields and do not let dogs off the leash. Please keep gates closed at all times.

The reserve comprises two adjacent fields, rectangular in shape, and enclosed by shrub-rich hedgerows on the northern and eastern boundaries. There are a small number of old fruit trees planted into the east field and into the hedgerow between the two fields.

The main interest in this reserve lies in the plants of the meadows. Although semi-improved some species typical of old hay meadows still survive, notably the little Adder's Tongue fern and the showy, leguminous undershrub, Dyer's Greenweed. Both are local, although widespread, in Herefordshire. The presence of Yellow Ant mounds and numbers of the day-flying Small Yellow Underwing moth are further indicators that this is an ancient grassland site. On warm mid-summer days numbers of the meadow butterflies, Ringlet, Meadow Brown and Gatekeeper, fly above the grasses, while three species of Bumblebee add to the entomological interest.

The old hedgerows to the north and east contain an interesting mix of species , including Blackthorn, Willow, Aspen , Field Maple, Goat Willow, Wild Cherry and Holly, as well as the usual Hawthorn, Ash, Elder and Hazel. Although some planting has occurred, the richness of species supports the idea that these hedges are ancient and may possibly have their origins in Saxon times.

Following past practice, the Trust is managing the meadows to produce a traditional hay crop, with the cut being made after 1st. July to allow seeding and dispersal, and the crop is removed from the site. This is followed by aftermath grazing by sheep or cattle at an appropriate stocking level until 30th. November, after which the meadow can rest and then slowly resume growth through the winter months. No supplementary feeding of livestock is permitted.

Bequeathed to HNT in May 2000 by Mrs. Winifred M. Preece.

Download reserve details 395kb