THREE Towns Growers Allotments and Community Gardens in Ardrossan recently hosted a very successful workshop by James Stead of the wildlife conservation charity Froglife.

The workshop was part of Froglife’s Scottish Dragon Finder project funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Attendees learned ways they can contribute to wildlife friendly gardening, with a focus on amphibians and reptiles.

James first gave a talk on Scotland’s frogs, toads, newts, lizards and snakes before demonstrating ways to create a wildlife friendly garden. Did you know that newts, frogs and toads are beneficial to gardeners and voraciously feed on slugs, snails and unwelcome visitors to the garden?

Everyone attending then helped design the wildlife pond at Three Towns Growers site before returning over the next few days to help excavate the pond and lay the pond liner.

The wildlife pond is substantial and designed to maximise its utility for wildlife, especially newts and frogs and can be potentially used by local schools for pond dipping and biology practicals.

The wildlife pond is part of a biodiversity action plan put together by the Three Towns Growers to enhance the value of the site for wild plants and animals.

Three Towns Growers is a charity dedicated to providing growing space and educational opportunities to all members of the community.

The charity prides itself in helping members to live healthier, more sustainable lifestyles through gardening and social interaction.

Contact: info@ threetownsgrowers.org.

To find out more about Froglife visit www.froglife.org.