Blakeney Point and Foxley Wood shortlisted for BBC magazine award

To celebrate its 60th anniversary, BBC Wildlife magazine has drawn on its network of writers, presenters, photographers and conservationists to come up with the list, which can be voted on by the public.

Of seven nominees the east of England, two are in Norfolk's north - Foxley Wood, near Reepham, and Blakeney Point.

Patrick Barkham, journalist and author, nominated Foxley Wood, while ranger, presenter and author Ajay Tegala plumped for the Point. 

Mr Barkham said: “Foxley Wood is not a famous place, and its low dome of trees is not particularly conspicuous in the flatlands of central Norfolk. 

Patrick Barkham at Foxley Wood. - Picture: Sonya Duncan (Image: Patrick Barkham at Foxley Wood. - Picture: Sonya Duncan)

“But there’s magic within.

"It was our local wood, and we visited in autumn for fungi and falling leaves, in spring for bluebells, and in summer – in vain – for the mysterious purple emperor butterfly. 

“Foxley’s recovery began when Norfolk Wildlife Trust bought it just over 30 years ago. The transformation today is astonishing.”

Mr Tegala said Blakeney Point: “Offers the remoteness and solitude I often crave.”

He added: “Sea breezes blow the cobwebs away, the eyes can gaze for miles to the horizon and there is limitless fresh, salty air.

“As well as a dramatic landscape, space to think and miles to explore, it’s the wildlife that makes this National Trust National Nature Reserve so magnificent. 

“There’s a constantly changing cast of plants and creatures throughout the seasons, so it’s rewarding at any time of year.”

Among the other nominees in the east of England are the River Chet on the Norfolk Broads, Wallasea Island in Essex and Hampton Nature Reserve near Peterborough.

People can vote online here. The poll closes at midnight on March 10.