The launch of the appeal was backed by naturalist and broadcaster Sir David Attenborough, who himself has long links with the reserve, but today the charity has spoken of its delight to have the support of a number of key local figures. Locals backing the appeal include internationally renowned fashion designer and businessman Sir Paul Smith who hails from Beeston, Sat & Amanda Baines who run the Michelin starred Restaurant Sat Baines just down the Trent from the Reserve and Baroness Tina Stowell of Beeston formerly Leader of the House of Lords and now Chair of the Charity Commission.

Speaking about the Wildlife Trust’s efforts to secure the long-term future of the reserve, off Barton Lane, Attenborough, Sir Paul Smith said: "From what I can remember the area now used by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust was previously gravel pits. Given the history, it’s such a great use of the land and it’s really established itself as world-class nature reserve. The work done by the Trust and its volunteers is fantastic and I wish them every success with the Attenborough Lifeline Appeal to ensure it can be enjoyed by many people for generations to come."

Sat & Amanda Baines whose Trentside restaurant has its own urban garden providing salad and herb plants for the kitchen said: “The Attenborough Nature Reserve is a very special part of Nottingham’s wildlife. I am proud to support such a unique centre for wildlife which is enjoyed by so many, young and old. The work done by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust is second to none, maintaining this beautiful part of our City.”

Baroness Stowell who grew up nearby in Beeston Rylands added: “Among the things I took for granted growing up in Beeston Rylands was living next door to Attenborough Nature Reserve and its beautiful birds. Thankfully, others didn’t take it for granted and – because of the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, and the hard work of its volunteers – this special place has thrived and become world-renowned. The whole area can be proud of Attenborough Nature Reserve and all it has achieved over the last 50 years.  And I hope it maintains its status as a great destination for all those who want to see, enjoy and learn about the wildlife who make it their home by the virtue of nature alone.”

The appeal is also backed by Sir Martyn Poliakoff, arguably the University of Nottingham’s most recognisable academic after his starring role in the YouTube phenomenon – the Periodic Table of Videos.

Speaking after the launch of the appeal Sir Martyn, who is also an Hon. Vice President of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust said: “As residents of Beeston, I and my family have been visiting Attenborough and watching it evolve for nearly 40 years. It is a wonderful place and we now have a once in a lifetime opportunity to secure its long-term future so I would urge people to support Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust by donating to the Attenborough Nature Reserve Lifeline Appeal.”

The Wildlife Trust’s Attenborough Lifeline Appeal which has a £1 million target to enable the charity to purchase and care for the reserve has got off to a stunning start with donations reaching around £130,000 in the first 12 days.  

Speaking about the appeal Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust’s Head of Communications Erin McDaid said: “Nowhere connects people and wildlife quite like Attenborough Nature Reserve and we knew that the site was well loved but we have been staggered by the level of support since we launched the appeal. Having the backing of Sir David Attenborough has undoubtedly provided a boost but the real value of the reserve is how much it means to local people; and that’s why we were also delighted to announce the support of a range of local figures. We hope their backing helps to keep the momentum going as we’ve still got some way to go to reach our target.”

Anyone wishing to donate the Attenborough Nature Reserve Lifeline Appeal can do so online or in person at Attenborough Nature Centre.