WILDLIFE lovers were up at the crack of dawn to ‘bringing back a species on the brink of extinction’.

Environmentalists were pleased with the results of a survey carried out on great crested newts, protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, at a pond in Stonehouse.

Stroud Valleys Project staff were supported by Cresswell Associates who provided training for the staff in surveying the protected species.

Twenty people showed up on the morning with ages ranging between six and 87 years old.

The environmental charity’s project was funded by Biffa Award and supported by Stonehouse Town Council.

Aiming to restore the colony of great crested newts back to favourable condition, the environmentalists were served breakfast at Stonehouse Court Hotel on Saturday, April 26.

Julie Wickham, organising said: “The morning was really successful as we managed to discovered 35 newts in total, 12 great crested and the rest smooth newts.”

Ahead of the day Stroud Valleys Project staff were supported by Cresswell Associates which provided training for the staff in surveying the protected species.

The environmental charity’s project was funded by Biffa Award and supported by Stonehouse Town Council.

The next survey will take part on Saturday, May 23 between 7am and 8am at Stonehouse newt pond.

To reserve a place at £15 per person which includes breakfast and the survey, contact Julie on 0794 190932, the money will go towards Stroud Valleys Project.