This letter, by our then secretary C. A. Norris, appeared in the RSPB's 'Bird Notes' magazine, Vol. 24 No. 5, the Winter 1950–1951 edition.
I wonder if you could find room in your columns for an expression of thanks to the Society?
A year ago bird-watchers in Warwickshire and neighbouring counties were alarmed to hear that, as a result of proposed open-cast coal mining, one of the best of six pools at Alvecote, near Tamworth, was likely to be considerably disturbed and possibly filled in. These pools are of particular interest to bird-watchers as they represent the only extensive area of shallow water in Warwickshire, and in consequence are much frequented by wild-fowl, waders and Great Crested Grebe.
As a result of our appeal to the R.S.P.B, and their efforts on our behalf, an undertaking was given that the pools would not be used for tipping and would be disturbed as little as possible. Open-cast working has now been going on for several weeks and every precaution is certainly being taken by the contractors responsible.
The pool nearest to the workings is still frequented by Mallard, Tufted Duck, Pochard and Great Crested Grebe, and on October 11th the preservation of this water was more than ever justified by the arrival of a drake Ferruginous Duck. This is only the second time that this species has been recorded in Warwickshire, and our thanks go to the R.S.P.B. and to those responsible at the Ministry of Fuel and Power for saving so interesting and ornithologically productive a habitat. We are most grateful.
C. A. Norris,
Hon. Secretary, The West Midland Bird Club
Alvecote Pools 
are now a Warwickshire Wildlife Trust reserve.
Ornithology in Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire & the West Midlands county, since 1929.
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