WILDLIFE Friendly Otley is marking its new charitable status by launching a packed programme of events for 2022 plus a film about its mission and work.

The voluntary group was recently granted registered charity status by the Charities Commission.

“It is terrific news, as we were only launched officially in January 2019,” said Treasurer Danny Hudson. “Being a registered charity makes it easier for us to raise funds for our work to help Otley people and organisations become more wildlife friendly and so address the awful decline in our wildlife in recent years.”

The group has been active throughout the pandemic expanding its activities, attracting widespread support and doubling its membership to over 150 in the last year. It has launched several new campaigns including Gardens for Wildlife which aims to get most gardens in Otley doing something for wildlife by 2030.

It is currently working with various local organisations, such as West Yorkshire Police, on sites around town for habitat and nature restoration and wildlife planting, as well as with Leeds City Council Parks department, Otley Town Council and Otley in Bloom. Wildlife friendly activities are being organised again with local schools. Prizes can be won by taking part in the group’s Pledge for Wildlife campaign.

A busy community programme is lined up - with participation in Otley Green Fair on April 9, Otley Show on May 21, the carnival on June 18, and Otley Walking Festival. In October the group will stage a bigger version of its Wildlife Arts Festival.

As part of its campaign for Otley to become a wildlife friendly town, the group has produced a short film about its work and how well situated Otley is for seeing wildlife. Filmed and edited by one if its members, Rebecca Mason, with extra footage from Matthew Thomas, it can be viewed on the 'Wildlife Friendly Otley YouTube Channel' or at www.wildlifefriendlyotley.org.uk where there is information about local nature, the group’s projects, how to help wildlife, volunteering and membership.

Chair of trustees Andrew McKeon said: “We have stepped up a lot of our campaigning work and practical wildlife activities and are increasing our support for Otley community events by taking part in Otley Show and the Carnival for the first time. Look out for us there and at this year’s Otley Green Fair. We have opportunities for volunteers who want to help our local wildlife and also to connect with nature.”