VISITOR numbers are on the rise at of the most popular nature reserves in Notts.

The Attenborough Nature Centre, in Barton Lane, has seen a 10 per cent increase in visitor numbers over the autumn and winter months.

And staff have put this boost down to an increase in the number of rare birds seen at the centre.

A survey carried out by the Post in nearby Beeston found that six people out of one hundred thought parks and the Attenborough Nature Reserve were among the best things about the area.

Their view is supported by the centre's visitor numbers. It welcomed more than a quarter of a million people last year, and the comparatively mild winter has helped it become a haven for rare birds.

Erin McDaid, from the centre, said: "One of the highlights for birdwatchers was the appearance of the squacco heron in November, which saw more than 500 people turn up just to see it.

"We also had six pairs of Cetti's warblers breeding in October which was a great success and brought a lot of people to the centre.

"I think people are realising they can see some fantastic wildlife on their doorstep all year round and that's bringing people back to the centre."

Julie Sykes, 50, from Beeston is a regular visitor to the reserve, and said she enjoys the relaxing atmosphere.

She said: "I do like the café where you can get a coffee and the fact it is over the water."

Mrs Sykes also believes that the people of Beeston enjoy visiting the centre because it is easily accessible and there is something to suit all generations.

She added: "It has quite a lot of walks for every level of ability. We enjoy walking two or three miles when we visit.

"My husband and I have just started getting into bird-watching in the garden so we have been getting into nature and conservation and we like to see what species are around."

The centre also runs bird-watching sessions, tree identification classes and nature walks around the site.

It also runs a school programme to raise environmental awareness among youngsters – with this scheme welcoming it's 20,000th child last year.