WALKERS, cyclists and nature lovers are celebrating the fact that in the 25 years since Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, officially opened the Biss Meadows Country Park in Trowbridge, the area has gone from strength to strength.

The Royal visitor declared the park open on July 23, 1993, and since then the 100-acre site has become a favourite for many locals in Trowbridge as well as drawing visitors to the town.

In 2008 a group of locals formed The Friends of Biss Meadows and a community has since been created, launching nature inspired events regularly for everybody to enjoy.

The meadows are now being looked after one by the Friends, who this year are one of the current Mayor of Trowbridge Cllr Dennis Drewett’s chosen charities, because of the fondness he and community hold for the parklands.

The Friends are proud that the Royal visit is recorded on a commemorative plaque in what they feel is one of the area’s greatest nature spots, running from Trowbridge town centre to the east of the town.

The meadow occupies land which falls into several parishes, as it comes between Yarnbrook, North Bradley and West Ashton and along the River Biss, leading to its name.

Once simply open fields, the area now has a variety of nicely laid out paths for dog walkers and ramblers, which are accessible for wheelchair users, mums with prams and those with limited mobility, and it is enjoyed by many local youngsters due to the lack of traffic. It is therefore easy and safe to access by anybody who wishes to partake in a peaceful walk or cycle around the park.

Being a flood plain, the meadows are home to a variety of wildlife and natural structures whilst the river runs all the way through. Kingfishers and herons are often seen along its banks, and there is plenty of homes for other birds and animals.

An amazing 250 different species have been recorded in the meadows and so each season provides new life as well as the excitement of the ever-changing colours in the trees.

Recently the town council wrote to the Duke of Edinburgh congratulating the Prince on his many years of service to the nation, prompting a reply from the Duke’s Private Secretary .