RESIDENTS have called for a well-loved nature reserve in Bridport to be better promoted.

As previously reported, Bridport Town Council has launched a consultation on Asker Meadows, asking for views from the public on how the meadows can be improved.

READ MORE: Views wanted for future of Asker Meadows in Bridport

Residents are calling for the future of the meadows to "focus on nature" and to preserve the status of the meadow as a nature reserve

Bridport resident Nicola Dennis said: "Askers Meadows is actually a local nature reserve (LNR), it's a great shame that it is not promoted as such.

"Asker Meadows may now, only marginally qualify as an LNR on biodiversity grounds

"The first priority should be to protect and enhance nature, and to allow and encourage learning and scientific research. The green space or meadows as it's always referred to, should be enjoyed but not to the detriment of wildlife.

"We are so incredibly lucky to have a local nature reserve on our doorstep and every effort should be made to keep this a well-managed and protected area for future generations.

"There was a huge interest in the wilding films shown in town, and there was a large turnout for the Swift talks and walks so please let's all focus on getting this wonderful resource turned into something truly remarkable."

Ged Duncan is a member of the Asker Meadows Nature Reserve committee.

Mr Duncan added: "We want to raise awareness that this is actually a nature reserve, it was dedicated as one 20 years ago.

"There are people who use the meadows who aren't even aware that it is a reserve.

“We want to find ways to increase the biodiversity in the meadows.

“We have five or six priority species in the river including eels, trout, water voles, kingfishers, dippers and occasionally otters.

“We would like to see the river habitat managed better, in terms of water quality and the river banks.

“For example, there are two types of pollution that affect the river; one is sewage, the other, controversially, is toxins in flea powders on dogs – they have a detrimental effect on the river.

“The majority of dog owners love nature and they don’t want to harm wildlife.

“If they are aware of this they can make their own choices."

A spokesperson for Bridport Town Council said: "Bridport Town Council and Asker Nature Reserve Project have been following a management plan at Asker Meadows for the past five years which ensures that the interests of wildlife and the many users are balanced.

"Practical improvements include tree planting, meadow management, new footpath surfaces, bins, seating and sculptures.

"We are now working with the wider community to gather information and produce a revised management plan."