A BELOVED nature reserve’s visitor centre has been given a new look thanks to funding secured from the People’s Postcode Lottery.

RSPB Old Moor, South Yorkshire’s flagship nature reserve, has been transformed thanks to the £30,000 boost raised by players.

Thanks to the funding boost the outdated welcome hut has been removed and replaced by a new indoor modern and bright reception area in the main building.

The visitor shop has been streamlined to make more space for welcome information and displays and new glass sliding doors and shutters have improved accessibility and energy efficiency.

The central courtyard and lawn area have been upgraded too, to make it more welcoming and usable year-round with tables and picnic benches specially designed for easier wheelchair access.

Improved signage has also been added across the reserve to enhance wayfinding for families and first-time visitors.

Reserve manager Emma Tuckey said: “We’re absolutely thrilled with the results of this project, which will help make Old Moor an even more welcoming place for families, nature lovers and first-time visitors.

“Making nature accessible to everyone is our number one priority.

“Thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery, we’ve created a better experience from the very first step through the door - and that’s so important when we want people to feel inspired by nature.”