Nature reserve, in Leicester, is spruced up by volunteers

Invasive tree species and brambles have been cleared from a nature spot to make room for more wildlife.

Students from Leicester College joined officers from Leicester City Council and charity Groundwork Leicester and Leicestershire to improve Washbrook Nature Reserve in Knighton Road East, off Welford Road, Leicester.

The environmental day saw volunteers clear out an overgrown pond covered in ice, remove invasive tree species from frozen ground and clear bramble from around footpaths.

City council staff said the work had made a positive difference to the nature in the area.

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Assistant nature conservation officer Richard Kelly said: "The habitat is now of greater value to all the frogs and toads using the site while increasing the area of species-rich grassland.

"This is very important for our insects and, in particular, the bees, moths and butterflies that have all suffered in the last year or so from disease and the poor weather."

Nine students from Leicester College took part in the event.

Kim Hawksworth, of the college, said: "The skills students learn in tasks like this are invaluable for them in finding work after college."

The day finished with a guided bird walk of the site.

To get involved in conservation work in the city, visit: www.leicester.gov.uk/biodiversity