A NATURE reserve which is home to more than 150 species of bird throughout the year, has enjoyed a successful open day.

Guests at the event run by the Nosterfield Nature Reserve, near Ripon, North Yorkshire, praised the new visitor centre at the 105-acre former sand and gravel quarry.

The £20,000 facility includes a seated viewing gallery, offering panoramic views of the wetland landscape.

Simon Warwick, a trustee of the Lower Ure Conservation Trust, which owns and manages the site, said: "Here we have the result of co-operation between the company, local councils, government agencies and conservationists.

"It just shows what can be achieved with goodwill and enthusiasm. As the water levels drop during the summer months, the exposed mud becomes ideal for wading birds - it is like an inland estuary. Now, lapwing, redshank and curlew all breed successfully here.