Wildflowers, Silverlink Biodiversity Park, Shiremoor

Image: © Geoff Holland Taken: 12 Jul 2020

The two predominant species in this stretch of path side meadow are Common Knapweed and Lady's Bedstraw. Common Knapweed, also known as Hardheads and Black Knapweed, is a firm favourite of pollinating insects, being a source of good quality nectar. As well as supporting bees, butterflies and beetles its seeds provide food for many birds. Lady's Bedstraw, when dried, has the scent of new-cut hay, and its name is probably derived from the tradition of stuffing straw mattresses with it, particularly those of women about to give birth. The Silverlink Biodiversity Park was created in 1996, on the site of a former rubbish tip, as part of a new business park development scheme. It covers an area of approximately 18 hectares and contains a variety of woodland, scrub and hedgerow, grassland and tall herb, wetland and exposed rock habitats. A giant sundial sits on top of a central hill which can be reached via a spider's web of footpaths. The park was declared a Local Nature Reserve in 2005. For a selection of detailed free to download walking routes in the area visit www.northtynesidewalks.co.uk

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