COSMESTON Lakes has a new audio nature trail, thanks to a supermarket community scheme.

The Tesco ‘Bags of Help’ initiative has enabled Cosmeston Lakes Country Park to take delivery of speakers which will provide visitors with detailed audio descriptions as they walk through the 100 hectare nature reserve.

The self-powered, wind-up sound store units granted to the Vale’s site will be located at key focus points around the main lake at the Cosmeston Lakes Country Park.

The sounds and audio descriptions will bring a new dimension to the visitor experience.

The Tesco scheme ensures money raised from the Government’s five pence charge for plastic carrier bags is used for a number of diverse local projects.

Projects often create or improve outdoor spaces, and range from new parks to community gardens.

Tesco customers voted in store for their favourite project within their region – with projects then being whittled down to three, all of whom receive funding ranging £8,000 to £12,000.

Vale council deputy leader and cabinet member for regeneration and education, cllr Lis Burnett said: “Cosmeston already offers a large variety of attractions for visitors: its diverse plants and wildlife offer much to see. But, these new audio units will allow us all to learn as we walk. They’ll be great for those visiting the lakes, or making their way to the Medieval Village.”

Cosmeston Lakes Country Park gained Local Nature Reserve status in May 2013, and is a haven for rare plants and local wildlife.

A reconstructed 14th century medieval village where costumed guides show visitors around the period-furnished buildings is located within the park.

The nature trail sound units will be installed and available for interaction with visitors by the end of October.

For details about Tesco’s ‘Bags of Help’ scheme, visit www.tesco.com/bagsofhelp

For information on parks in the Vale, visit www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk/en/enjoying/parks_and_gardens