The charity has bought Knotbury Common, just north of Flash, to take its total amount of nature reserves it owns or manages to 30. The site is especially good for wading birds like curlew, lapwing and snipe.

It is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a site of Special Area of Conservation (SAC) meaning it is recognised nationally and at European level as an important site for wildlife conservation.

The Trust purchased the site thanks to a grant from the BIFFA Landfill Communities Fund and further individual donations.

Through its land management techniques, the Trust is now hoping it enable wildlife to thrive at the Common.

Jeff Sim, Senior Conservation Manager for the Trust, said: “The site is in a very lovely part of the Leek Moors SSSI, and increases our landholding in the South West Peak.

“It is close to our flagship Roaches site and we are very hopeful of making a difference quite quickly. The site is especially good for wading birds and has a large area of blanket bog.

“It is very pleasing to complete the purchase and takes the total area of land we manage in the county to 3,799 acres.”

This year is a very special year for Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, marking 50 years since the charity was formed in 1969. To celebrate, the Trust has plenty planned to mark the occasion. Visit www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk/50yearswild to find out more.