The RSPB nature reserve now benefits from new facilities, including a revamped visitor centre and new learning area for families and school groups. These improvement works mean that more people will be able to enjoy Minsmere - which is home to rare birds, historical woodlands and stunning coastal scenery.

Drew Bennellick, HLF’s Head of Landscapes and Natural Heritage, said: “The projects we funded at RSPB Minsmere have successfully opened up the site for many more people to learn about and enjoy this wonderful part of Suffolk.”

After the works were completed, it was announced that Minsmere would be the new base for the BBC’s flagship wildlife programme, Springwatch. The series, which aired in May 2014, followed the fortunes of the nature reserve’s diverse wildlife and introduced the heritage of the area to more potential visitors.

As part of this project, the Minsmere team wanted to create an atmosphere that encouraged an open learning culture, where visitors can ask questions and not be afraid of getting things wrong. Staff and volunteers were trained to help them find them find the right answer, which was seen as a positive learning opportunity.