A couple of years ago a single goose took up residence on Basted Mill pond, he was lonely so a kind hearted local couple bought another goose as a companion for him, they have tended and cared for them over the last 2 years.

The geese became a much-loved part of our community. Families would stop to visit them, children would feed them, and many of us found comfort simply watching them peacefully living by the water.

Recently, tragedy struck when one of the geese was stolen. The loss has been heartbreaking for everyone who cared about them, especially the remaining goose, who was left alone and distressed.

Amazingly the local couple rushed out to purchase another goose so that the remaining one is no longer by itself. Watching them together again has given us hope, but it has also made us realise how urgently we need to better protect them.

I have now spoken to the couple and they are happy for a fundraiser to be set up (they’re not on facebook), what they hope for is money for a good cctv camera plus being able to create a grassy space on the opposite side of the lake for a safe space for the geese.

These geese are more than just birds — they are part of our community, and they deserve to feel safe in the place they call home.

All funds raised will be managed by the local carers who purchased and continue to care for the geese.