The new interpretation explains the unique ecology, geology and human history of the area, noting the changes over time which have resulted in the landscape of the Island’s only National Nature Reserve. Visitors can identify pebbles found on the beach and find out where they originated from and learn more about some of the fascinating beach finds on display. 20mm cannon casings once fired from Spitfires and Hurricane aircraft are a reminder that the area was very different during WW11.
Families can borrow a Nature Discovery rucksack full of ways to get up close to nature and complete jigsaws to reveal local wildlife.
Last week, Appleby, along with MWT Patrons, His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor, Sir John Lorimer and Lady Lorimer, MWT volunteers and supporters joined to celebrate the re-imagining of interpretation at the MWT Ayres Nature Discovery.
Mark Holligon, Managing Partner at Appleby Isle of Man said, “Appleby are proud to sponsor the MWT Ayres NDC, which has enabled MWT to refresh the centre and its offering. Our team at Appleby are passionate about doing what we can to support the local environment and are involved with a number of environmental charities and initiatives. MWT do an amazing job at protecting our Islands’ wildlife and educating residents as to why it’s so special, we encourage families to visit the centre and discover what the Ayres has to offer.”
MWT CEO, Leigh Morris said, “We are very grateful to Appleby for sponsoring MWT Ayres NDC for the next two years, enabling us to create our new and exciting interpretation and add colourful murals. Clean energy experts GoGreen have provided a much more powerful solar array which will enable us to use technology to show our visitors hidden natural treasures. We look forward to further developing the centre over the next few years, enabling more people to discover and enjoy this very special part of our Island Biosphere”.
For more information on Manx Wildlife Trust and the Ayres Nature Discovery Centre, visit their website here.
