Bedfordshire Local Group

Local Groups

Bedford Local Group

The Bedford Local Group is a friendly collection of people who have a variety of interests in wildlife. We are concerned with supporting and advertising the work of the Trust and promoting a greater understanding of the environment.

We are open to everyone. It is not necessary to be a member of the Trust, although that has many advantages!

Group of 12 people smiling toward the camera, standing on a wooden boardwalk in a wetland habitat

Bedford Local Group

Group of people standing in a woodland habitat listening to a guide

Bedford Local Group

Group standing in wintery sun looking through binoculars on a guided walk

Bedford Local Group

Group description and history

We are a longstanding group that for many years has encouraged people in Bedford and the surrounding area to enjoy and learn more about the wildlife in their local area. We are run by a committee of volunteers supported by members of the group. We try to put together an interesting and informative set of events throughout the year.

Description of group activities

We meet regularly on two occasions per month. On the first Wednesday of each month, we have a guided walk at a local Wildlife Trust reserve or other sites of interest. The walk is usually led by an expert on the site being visited. The walks start at 10am and last for approximately two hours.

The meeting on the second Wednesday of the month varies with the seasons. From September to April, we hold talks on a vast range of wildlife topics. These are held in Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnham Avenue, Bedford and start at 7:30pm. In the summer months from May to August we hold evening walks which start at 7pm. These events last for approximately one and a half to two hours.

How to get involved

This is an opportunity to join in with a group of lively, friendly like-minded people. The programme of events is organised by a committee who are always willing to hear of new suggestions. We try to provide a varied programme that should interest anyone who wants to learn more about wildlife, discover our local reserves and find out what is available in our area.

There is no charge or booking needed for our events but participants usually give a voluntary donation. This enables us to make regular contributions to the Wildlife Trust to help with local projects.

We average about 20- 30 people at our meetings. All are welcome, you do not have to be an expert or a member of the Trust. We ask that people under the age of 18 be accompanied by an adult.