The Doncaster Gazette – 26 May 1983

Rich, Rare Life on Thorne Moors

As secretary of Doncaster Naturalists’ Society, I have forwarded this letter after being inundated with phone calls from People in the Doncaster area.

They are shocked and horrified at the incorrect statement attributed to Dr. David Bellamy in the Doncaster Star on May 19, in the article entitled The Big Dig at Thorne.

Doncaster Naturalists’ Society visited Thorne Moors on May 21, 1983, and found the area of great importance.

Below is a list of the rare plants recorded:

Southern Marsh Orchid, Twayblade, Bladderwort, Cranberry, Royal Fern, Bog Rosemary, Adders Tongue Fern.

The area is also rich in bird life on our visit a nightingale was heard and seen, together with sedge and reed warblers.

The nightjars return every year and can be heard singing from late May onwards.

If David Bellamy has been on Thorne Moors recently and missed the richness and variety of the moors, which is, after all, only a backyard safari, then what hope is there for the diminishing wildlife in Tasmania and Australia.

Wildlife in Thorne Moors is as rich and precious as wildlife anywhere, and certainly in need of protection if not against vandals a least against Davis Bellamy and Fisons.

R. S. Taylor, honorary secretary, Doncaster Naturalists’ Society, Sprotbrough Road, Doncaster.