It started with a simple idea: could Charlton Kings become a haven for swifts and house martins?
Local resident and wildlife champion Tom Mabbett first approached Charlton Kings Parish Council with a proposal to install a swift tower. After exploring locations, costs and logistics, it became clear that a single tower wasn’t quite the right fit – but it sparked a much bigger idea.
Working together with allotment holder Sarah Payne, Tom began looking into how the community could help these birds more widely – by putting up nest boxes, recording sightings and protecting existing nesting sites.
That’s where Cheltenham Action for Nature stepped in: helping to spread the word, recruit volunteers and set up a WhatsApp group to connect everyone who wants to get involved.
The group’s first meeting will take place soon to plan their next steps – from mapping local nests to supporting residents who’d like to add boxes to their homes.
We’re proud to be supporting Sarah, Tom and everyone involved in this new community effort to help swifts and house martins thrive in Charlton Kings.
For more information about the group or to get involved, visit their Facebook group page, or email them at shmsgck@gmail.com.
