The rejuvenation of Widnes's Victoria Park has taken another step forward with the help of local volunteers who have created a wildlife area within the park for all to enjoy.

"The formal parts of the park are perfect for people, but we also wanted to provide somewhere for wildlife, which needs more varied habitats," explains Steph Davies, chair of community group the Victoria Park Environment Team.

"The great thing about creating this haven in the park is that not only will it benefit birds, bats and creepy crawlies, but it's also helped our volunteers learn new skills too."

Thanks to the group, the park's wildlife-friendly strip of woodland along its western edge now boasts 140 new trees, habitat piles and bat and bird boxes – all contributing to The Mersey Forest, the network of woodlands and green spaces being created across Merseyside and North Cheshire.

The group has been supported by Halton Borough Council's Ranger Service throughout the project, which was funded by Runcorn-based chemical manufacturer INEOS ChlorVinyls through the Landfill Communities Fund.

Janet Ward of INEOS ChlorVinyls said: "It's great to be able to support such a worthwhile project, which is not only helping the park's wildlife but also bringing people together too. Victoria Park is lucky to have such dedicated volunteers caring for its future."

As well as working hard on site, the Environment Team has also been venturing further afield as part of the project. The group went on a fact-finding mission to Lancashire to visit Burnley's Offshoots permaculture project, and have used their new skills to sow wildflower seeds back at Victoria Park to create a burst of colour in the New Year.

If you are interested in getting involved in the Victoria Park Environment Team, please call 0151 423 6147.