AN OTLEY wildlife haven created out of a former quarry has won a national award.

The Otley Wetland Nature Reserve, which provides a home to everything from song thrushes to otters, was built on the site of the old Hanson sand and gravel works at Bridge End.

A partnership between Hanson, the Otley Wetland Nature Reserve Trust (OWNRT) and Leeds city and Otley town councils started working on the restoration project after the quarry closed, in 1996.

Their success at transforming the 13.7 hectare site - which has a conservation lake, native woodland, scrub, hedge-rows, reedbeds and grassland - has now been officially recognised at the Quarry Products Association's (QPA) 2008 Restoration Awards.

At a ceremony in London, representatives from Hanson and OWNRT received the QPA's 2008 restoration trophy from the chief executive of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, Graham Wynne.

OWNRT Chairman and Wharfedale Naturalists Society President, Peter Riley, said: "This is fantastic news and we are very, very pleased. It has also coincided nicely with our open day, which we held on Saturday.

"The success of this nature reserve is a tribute to partnership working.

"The Trust is grateful in particular for all the co-operation and practical help received from Hanson, local councils, Wharfedale Naturalists Society, Nidder-dale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and, last but not least, our wonderful and ever-willing team of volunteers."

Hanson land and planning manager Ben Ayres said: "It is fantastic to think that this site now acts as a safe haven for wildlife.

"The transformation from a working quarry to outstanding nature reserve will have lasting social and environmental benefits for the local community.

"We are grateful for the input of the OWNRT and also to the town council and local volunteers who have helped make the restoration of Otley quarry such a success."

A number of protected species have made the new reserve their home, including bullfinches, grey partridges, common toads and a variety of dragonflies and butterflies.

lAccess to the reserve is available to permit holders. Permits cost £5 a year (refundable for active voluntary work) and are available from Mr Riley, who also welcomes calls about volunteering and conservation work in the area, on 01943 862916.