71180-58AN action plan to improve Swindon's green spaces and protect its wildlife was launched at the weekend.

And, to prove action speaks louder than words, volunteers were out in force sprucing up Rushey Platt nature reserve in the town.

A biodiversity plan for Wiltshire was produced two years ago but, because Swindon had its own problems, experts decided that it needed its own action plan.

"The plan will set out the importance of biodiversity for our quality of life and how we can protect and improve it," said Neil Pullen, from the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, which is closely involved in drawing it up.

"Swindon is rich in wildlife and the great thing is that humans and wildlife live so closely together and share the same spaces," he said.

"We have everything here from kingfishers to water voles, dragonflies, bats, bluebells and newts often just outside someone's garden fence."

He said biodiversity was the wealth of flora and fauna sharing the planet and without it many natural life support systems would cease to function.

The Swindon action plan has sections covering threats and opportunities which may affect the town and its five main habitats woodland, urban areas, grassland, farmland and water.

Removing graffiti, cutting back nettles and clearing an area around the pond were among the tasks tackled by a team of helpers at Rushey Platt yesterday.

A series of events is being held to highlight the issues, starting with a seminar on July 8 called Regeneration And Diversity, aimed at the town's businesses.