A SOCIETY dedicated to protecting a green haven has fought back from the brink of closure to carry on its work.

The Noak Bridge Nature Reserve Society was on the verge of disbanding as committee members stepped down, with no one willing to take on the roles.

BAR BAN: Residents Shane Byram, Emma Goodsell and Sarah Blackman are angry about proposals to sell alcohol in community space below their flats
NEW VOLUNTEERS: (l-r) Ray Batty, his wife Lesley Batty with Kara the dog and Tony Garner

But at a last-ditch meeting to save the group, or shut it down, a new team decided to take on the responsibility and help steer the group onwards.

New chairman Ray Batty said the reserve was crucial to the village.

Mr Batty, 64, said: "The reserve is one of the main reasons I moved to the area three years ago.

"It's such a beautiful space to come and walk a dog and I know people who can just sit here for hours watching the birds.

"I think Noak Bridge is a nice place generally, but the reserve is special."

The 20-acre site, owned and maintained by Basildon Borough Council with the support of the society volunteers, provides a refuge for a number of rare species, including red kites and muntjac deer.

Despite its popularity with locals, Mr Batty, an HGV driver who lives in Coppice Lane, said the previous committee was unable to carry on with its upkeep.

He said: "Some of the committee members were getting on in years and it becomes more difficult to commit.

"But I will be reaching retirement soon and will have more time to dedicate to the society and the reserve."

The group carries out working parties in the reserve, helping maintain the ponds, the young woodland and the grassland areas.

Volunteers also install bird and bat nesting boxes, and look after trails and information boards that allow people to learn more about the wildlife.

Cllr Kevin Blake, cabinet member for arts and leisure on Basildon council, said: "All those who volunteer on behalf of the Noak Bridge Nature Reserve Society have provided valuable support over the years.

"To lose this kind of community involvement would be a terrible shame, which is why it is great news that discussions have managed to secure the group's future.

"I would like to extend a warm welcome to the incoming society members and look forward to working with them."

The reserve, at the southern end of Eastfield Road, is open every day for visitors.

For information call Basildon council's countryside services department on 01268 550088