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Ann Metcalfe
Ann Metcalfe

Preamble and The Three Owls.

Posted By: Ann Metcalfe
Date Posted: 12/08/2009

Heavens! it is absolutely ages since I wrote my Online diary.

Basically I have been so fed up and saddened to read through the Forun and in Councillor's Diaries the series of half truths, rumours, innuendos and personal attacks in  attempt to discredit others .

I certainly do not wish to be associated with this attempt of  political points scoring.

I appreciate how difficult it is not to become involved, defensive and wanting to respond to this negotive propoganda.

I seldom make a promise which I can't keep but I'm going to try to ignore this pathetic approach, be myself and represent my constituents and their concerns in the best way I possibly can. After all this is why I was elected.

Now I've got that off my chest I feel much better!

 

             THE THREE OWLS BIRD SANCTUARY.

The Thrre Owls Bird Sanctuary was established some forty years ago at Wolstenholme, Norden. I can remember visiting Miss watkins and the owls were pearched around her kitchen shelves!

Throughout all these years the main concern has been the care, welfare and rehabilitaion of birds. Each year the sanctuary admits approximately 2000 birds from all over the counrty.

Our local bird sanctuary is noted not only locally, regionally but nationally as a Centre of Excellence.Throughout the summer holidays and weekends numberous families and tourists to the area stop off for a few moments to enjoy looking at the birds.

Every hour of the day and night calls are made seeking advice or asking to bring in injured birds for treatment. Not one is turned away. This shows the dedication and passion of the staff.

Visitors play a vital role not only in their welcome contribution toThe Three Owls (it costs around £10 00 per month for it to keep going) but also providing revenue to our the local community. What could be better than a walk via the sanctuary to Millcroft Tea Gardens or on the return jouney calling in at Heroes for a welcome coffee and a brouse around the shop?

This is all now under threat; The sanctaury may be required to register as a zoo. The conditions and criteria laid down would prove far too much with unbelievable expense and upheaval. In fact it would be the death knoll for The Three Owls.

I fully support Nigel the Manager and his supporters from all over the world in the  plea to Rochdale Council and Defra for an exemption.

Surely with the support of Members of Council here in Rochdale (and of course I am hoping I can get them all onside) we as a body can use our discretion and good judgement to grant an exeption for  The Three Owls.

 

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