A five star caravan and camping park, which is located next to the Dyfi Osprey Project in Mid Wales, has struck gold in the respected David Bellamy Conservation Award Scheme.
Ben and Sarah Lewis, managers of Morben Isaf Holiday Home and Touring Park at Derwenlas, near Machynlleth, have expressed their delight at achieving the gold award.
The countryside and wildlife loving couple moved with their two children from Worcester to become park managers in May, 2013.
“We are very proud to have achieved the gold award,” said Sarah. “It demonstrates our commitment to balancing our business aims with doing the best we can for conservation.
“The abundant wildlife that we have here is a big attraction and the award is an extra incentive to caravan owners, who are all on board and contributing to the park’s aims.”
The park – www.morbenisaf.co.uk – has 91 caravan holiday home pitches, 26 touring caravan pitches and a camping field for up to 10 tents. In addition, there are fishing and wildlife pools and nature trails with information points.
In a letter of congratulations to Mr and Mrs Lewis, David Bellamy wrote: “I hope that you will use this award to let everyone know about the wonderful work you are doing for the environment.
“I also hope this award will provide a real pat on the back to you and your team. Having read through the report, it is clear that you deserve hearty congratulations for everything you have done.”
Award assessor Julian Jones praised the park for blending in well with the local environment and community and for is range of activities for visitors.
He also commended Mr and Mrs Lewis for becoming involved in the Dyfi Biosphere and lobbying for improvements to the local bus service to establish a stop at the park. Waste recycling, energy and water efficient systems and planting areas of wildflowers are also noted.
“The positive relationships that have been forged with the Dyfi Osprey Project next door say it all,” he said. “It is fair to say that without Morben Isaf the Dyfi Osprey Project would find it hard to be the success that it has become.
“To holiday here must be a special treat. Whether or not every visitor is aware of the variety of species and habitats on site, they must go away with at least some idea of the abundance of birds and wildlife and hopefully that everyone can make space for nature.”
