PEOPLE can discover a ‘hidden paradise on their doorsteps’ by going along to the Bittell Estate, Barnt Green Waters, open day between 11am and 4pm tomorrow (Saturday, May 13).
The area incorporates fishing and sailing clubs and people will be able to have a go at both – sailing is subject to good weather conditions.
Visitors can also tour the estate which is within a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Among the activities on offer are paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking and chatting with the Friends of Bittell whose members show a keen interest in the natural history of the area.
The organisation owns the ‘Boathouse’ venue which overlooks Upper Bittell and houses a large meeting room, changing facilities, a kitchen and bar.
The estate has an exceptional range of varied opportunities to improve the local community’s mental health and well-being through opportunities to volunteer, socialise with other members and for members to help and encourage each other.
This provides support to people in developing their life skills, including confidence, communication, teamwork and mental health by being socially connected with others and increasing physical activity, all in a friendly and relaxed manner.
The Fishing Club was established in 1888 and provides a wide range of fishing opportunities in an attractive and peaceful environment covering five stretches of water. Three of these are reserved for fly fishing and the largest reservoir, Upper Bittell, is a coarse fishery, as is the Lower Arrow pool.
The Sailing Club is one of the premier sailing clubs in the West Midlands and membership is open to all. It is an RYA Teaching Establishment, providing Junior Training courses from the age of seven, together with adult courses.
A spokesperson said: “We feel sure that whether you are an experienced sailor, or a newcomer to the sport, you will gain a great deal should you decide to join us.”
Anyone interested in natural history and the countryside can join our Friends of Bittell section which gives access to the Estate and includes a well-established birdwatching group. The reservoirs are home to a range of wading birds and a stopping off point for many species of migrants, and this section includes the well-established birdwatchers.
In addition to the two clubs, the estate is home to activities organised by other groups. For those new to paddleboarding or wishing to try this activity, people can be introduced to Sean, who is a fully qualified coach and the Birmingham, Running and Triathlon Club organises open water swimming at Upper Bittell for their members from May to September, to help them train for competitive swimming events.
The ‘Boathouse’ provides stunning panoramic views across the tranquil 80 acres of Upper Bittell and offers a unique and secluded venue to companies and voluntary organisations during the week for in-house training sessions, sales meetings and seminar facilities or, as a regular meeting point for a club or society.
At the weekend, the Boathouse becomes an ideal location for wedding receptions, with the option of putting up a marquee on the car park, or for holding special anniversary or birthday lunches, evening events, or just family get-togethers.
Everyone is welcome to tomorrows event to find out more about what the Bittell Estate has to offer, get information they need first hand and the relevant direct points of contact to hopefully take part in one or more of the above membership activities.
