Hidden Merseyside:- "Sunset Wildlife Walk to Hilbre Island"
Photographs by Linda Trollope

HOWEVER exciting the metropolis may be, it is a great pleasure to escape from time to time and to experience more remote areas. To escape the millions at a place close to home is incredible. Such an opportunity was provided, on Saturday, 28 June 2014, by Wirral Coastal Rangers, when Joe Hanik led a party of around 50 members of the public across the sands to Hilbre Island. For those who do not know, this is a rocky outcrop comprising three small islets just across from West Kirby at the end of the Wirral peninsula which are accessible only at low tide times. Although we commenced our walk during a short shower, things soon improved as we set out across the sands, but it rapidly became obvious that the instructions to don sturdy waterproof footwear or Wellingtons and to carry waterproofs and warm clothes was well advised. Weather conditions can soon change and the area is very exposed.

Our guide provided us with a knowledgeable and interesting commentary en route and he was backed up by informative volunteers from the RSPB. Having reached Little Eye with its weirdly sculpted red sandstone, we heard a little of the history end the important ecological part this area plays as we looked back at the mainland before progressing though the vegetation of Middle Eye and onto reach the largest island, watching a variety of sea birds feeding on the sands and in channels all around us. These included gulls, terns, curlews and oyster catchers; whilst land birds were busy in the vegetation, including linnets. We even had swallows swooping around us. The sharp eyed spotted various insects of interest including moths and the inevitable crustaceans were found in the rock pools. Atlantic grey seals were noted lounging on a sandbank and, as the tide changed, some began swimming towards us eying us with curiosity.

Features of human activity on the now uninhabited island included the old life boat station, a precursor of the Hoylake boat; the telegraph station which had played a key role in maritime trade in previous centuries; the bird observation and ringing facilities and temporary accommodation for those involved and what remains of the once infamous 16c inn, of course associated with tales of smuggling and the riotous goings; on of its seafaring patrons of old. There is even ongoing research to find the location of a monastery which probably existed on the island many years ago. On our return journey we were rewarded by a lovely red sunset dramatically occurring close to the island, thus fulfilling all the specs indicated in the walk's title! A suggested donation of £3 was asked for each of us and was well worth it as this walk had much to commend it. Should you be interested, it is due to be repeated on Saturday, 12 July 2014 and on Saturday, 16 August 2014. Ring:- 0151 648 4371, for more information or to book you place on a walk.

It is possible to stay on the island and truly appreciate being cut off from the world by waiting for the tide to come and go; we were told this is a thrilling experience, but it requires much thought and proper planning and provisioning. It is possible to go unaccompanied to the island, but it is ESSENTIAL to know and take account of the tide times: always allow plenty of time to return to West Kirby safely. Tides are very fast and rapidly fill channels may maroon even drown the unwary. Also safe routes must be used to avoid hidden hazards like quicksand. The Coastal Rangers are on hand to ensure that you are proved with all the information you will need to enjoy a safe passage to and from the island.