AN exclusive event is set to mark the finale of the RSPB Dee Estuary nature reserve's 40th anniversary celebrations.

RSPB purchased the vast saltmarsh and mudflats at Parkgate in 1979 and over the last 40 years, the reserve has been developed into one of the largest protected wetlands in the country.

All year round the nature reserve has been celebrating with seasonal activities for all and are now set to end the anniversary year with an event at Neston Cricket Club in Parkgate on October 23.

Dan Trotman, visitor experience manager at RSPB Dee Estuary reserve, said: “We’ve been shouting loud and proud all year about this being a milestone for the reserve, which has attracted lots of new local people finding the brilliant wildlife to be enjoyed from Burton Mere Wetlands’ modern facilities.

“We had some more exciting new additions to our breeding birds this summer, with reedbed specialists bearded tits nesting for the first time along with great egrets and an attempt from a pair of spoonbills.

"Cattle egrets have become established since 2017 and were chosen for our limited edition 40th anniversary pin badge only available to buy at the reserve.

“As a grand finale to the anniversary celebrations, we’ve invited the reserve’s original warden, Bob Gomes from his home in Kent to appear alongside his long-serving successor Colin Wells for an informal illustrated talk about their work here, the wildlife and the growth of the reserve over four brilliant decades.

"For anybody with a passion for the reserve and an interest in its history, this is a night not to be missed.”

Tickets for the ‘RSPB Dee Estuary: Celebrating 40 Years’ event from 7pm and are priced at £12 per person (£10 for RSPB members) and £6 for children under 18.

With limited tickets, booking is essential visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/rspb-dee-estuary-celebrating-40-years-tickets-72259675635 or call Burton Mere Wetlands on 0151 353 2720.