SOUTH West Lakes Trust countryside manager Neil Reeves and countryside warden Kit Hancock were recently joined by a group of volunteers at Roadford Lake where 50 dormouse boxes were replaced.

Some colourful boxes, which were painted by children during the charity’s events in 2016, can now be spotted nestled amongst the trees. A spokesperson said:?“They really are luxury accommodation and they look fantastic!”

The site has historically been a stronghold for these endangered mammals and South West Lakes Trust carries out two dormouse checks a year, one in May and one in September, which ties in with the national Dormouse monitoring programme, helping to assess the state of the UK population.

Neil Reeves said: “There are 150 boxes spread around Roadford Lake and in May 2016, 26 dormice were found using the boxes, which is fantastic news. The next checks will be taking place in May where it is hoped a few more of these fascinating creatures will be found.

“If you come across any of the dormouse boxes at Roadford, please ensure our furry friends are not disturbed. All we ask is that you do not open the boxes.”

For more information, call 01566 771930 or email [email protected].