The popular fish pond on Falkland Estate has been attracting many visitors over the last couple of weeks.

Firstly huge machines got busy with the task of clearing away tons of mud and silt. A pump re-directed the water away from the ponds ancient heart, and allowed a huge digger to scoop out some interesting contents, including the bones of fish and large eels.

Despite being 200 years old, the pond revealed itself to be a wonderful construction, designed impeccably and with strong stone walls.

Now the pond has been re-filled, it retains its former glory. Wildlife is slowly returning (some having taken refuge downstream during the clean up) and we hope to welcome a host of new animal and plant residents to our peaceful pond.

Local novices worked with willow weaver Stephannie Bunn to create herons (see photo below) for the fish pond.  The workshop was inspired by the heron who frequently sits on trees near to the pond keeping an eye on possibilities for his supper.  We hope these larger than life sculptures will put him off until pond life has time to regenerate.

Thanks to the Heritage Lottery Fund for their support of this project.