About the event

Date: Saturday 25 October 2025
Time: 11:00am–1:00pm (please arrive by 10:45am)
Meeting point: Ash Magna car park (meet at 10:45 for an 11:00 start)
Location: Melverley Meadows nature reserve, Ash Magna, near Whitchurch
Cost: Free for members (booking required)
Booking / enquiries: email garyds@shropshirewildlifetrust.org.uk

What to expect

• Guided exploration of grassland and margin habitats at Melverley Meadows.
• Discussion of fungi ecology: their role as decomposers, partners in soil and plant health, and their wider importance to ecosystems.
• Practical tips on identification, survey techniques, and the tools and methods used by fungal recorders.
• Opportunity to see a good range of waxcaps, including the pink / “ballerina” waxcap — a Shropshire Biodiversity Action Plan species.

Please note: this is not a foraging or edible fungi walk. We will not be covering edibility or collecting fungi for eating, although the cultural and historical uses of fungi may be discussed.

Practical information

• Meeting / parking: Please meet at Ash Magna car park at 10:45am. Directions and a map will be sent with your booking confirmation.
• Footwear & clothing: Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear and weather-appropriate outdoor clothing — parts of the reserve can be uneven and muddy in autumn.
• Accessibility: The route includes grassland and some uneven ground; regrettably the walk is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. If you have access needs, please let us know when booking and we will do our best to advise.
• Dogs: Dogs should be kept under close control and on short leads; note livestock may be present in nearby fields.
• Equipment: Bring binoculars if you have them and a hand lens or field guide if you wish. We will provide identification support and group viewing where needed.
• Cancellation / changes: This event will run in light rain but may be cancelled or rescheduled in extreme weather. If numbers exceed capacity we may operate a waiting list.

Spaces are limited — please book your place by emailing garydesaram@shropshirewildlifetrust.org.uk. Include your name, membership number (if known), and a contact phone number.

We look forward to sharing the fungal riches of Melverley Meadows with you.