Leader of the Commons pays tribute to volunteers at Dudley's Wren's Nest nature reserve

Volunteers at Dudley’s world-renowned Wren’s Nest National Nature Reserve were praised by the leader of the House of Commons as ‘the golden thread that runs through our communities’ in Parliament.

Sonia Kumar, MP for Dudley, invited leader of the House of Commons Sir Alan Cambpell to join her for a visit where he could ‘pick up a fossil’ as she highlighted the 70th anniversary of the site’s status as a national reserve.

During a parliamentary business question-and-answer session, Miss Kumar asked Sir Alan: “Will my right honourable friend join me in thanking the Friends of Wren’s Nest, such as Paul Floyd, geologist Graham Worton and others who ensure that the 425-million-year-old treasures are protected for the next generation?”

She also asked for a debate on protecting such precious habitats in the Commons.

“He is always welcome to visit my constituency and pick up a fossil,” she added.

Sir Alan joked: “I am very tempted, but I am rather frightened that they will retain me as a fossil if I go.

“I pay tribute the people my honourable friend mentioned for everything that is happening; I wish them well and thank them. She allows me to say what I have said before on these occasions, which is that volunteers are so important. They are the golden thread that runs through our communities. This is a remarkable achievement.”

Speaking afterwards, Miss Kumar said it was important that sites such as Wren’s Nest were preserved for years to come.

“The Wrens Nest, part of the Black Country Unesco Global Geopark, attracts visitors and researchers from around the world who come to explore its rich fossil record and unique landscape,” she said.

“First protected in 1956, it remains one of Britain’s most important geological sites and a cornerstone of Dudley’s heritage.

“As the Wren’s Nest celebrates 70 years of protection, it is right that we recognise both its international significance and the local people who have worked tirelessly to preserve it. “The Wren’s Nest is not only a source of pride for Dudley, but a globally important site that helps us understand Earth’s history.I was pleased to raise its anniversary in Parliament and to call for greater recognition of the need to protect precious habitats like this for generations to come.”

Paul Floyd, of the Friends of Wren’s Nest, said the reserve was a place that belonged to the whole community.

“Its fossils tell an extraordinary story that stretches back hundreds of millions of years, and it has been a privilege to help share that story with visitors over the years,” he said.

“Reaching the 70th anniversary of Wren’s Nest becoming a National Nature Reserve is a testament to the dedication of volunteers, campaigners and local people who care deeply about protecting this unique landscape.”