Nature reserve boardwalk rebuilt after arson attack

A boardwalk destroyed in an arson attack just months after a nature reserve opened to the public has been rebuilt.

The structure, bins and information boards were completely damaged at Clophill Lakes in Bedfordshire in August last year.

In just six months, £100,000 was raised to build a bigger, 70m (230ft) boardwalk that has helped to create a fully accessible route around Castle Lake.

"At approximately one mile long, this loop will once again become a firm favourite for visitors," said Gill Welham, the chief executive of the Greensand Trust.

We're humbled by the support of the community, both near and far, who came together to make this happen."

The nature reserve opened to the public in April featuring otters, sand martins and colourful dragonflies in the wetlands, and skylarks and wildflowers in the grassland areas.

At the time, Bedfordshire Police said it believed the fires were caused deliberately and "sadly caused a significant amount of damage".

"Despite extensive investigation and house-to-house inquiries, officers have been unable to identify a suspect," a spokesperson said.

"We continue to appeal to anyone with information to come forward."

The work has been completed in time for the nature reserve's one-year anniversary.

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