Conservationists are encouraging residents to enjoy a secret gem.

Halstead Conservation Group invited MP Brooks Newmark to Coggeshall Pieces, a wildlife area near Hawthorn Close and Winston Way in Halstead.

Mr Newmark said: "The ability to create an area of wildlife conservation gives the people of Halstead the opportunity to see and hear local wildlife, especially the birds and the wide variety of pond life, at close quarters.”

Anyone who wants to help the volunteers can call Geoff Willis on 01787 475434.