Machynlleth’s new GP moved hundreds of miles to be near her beloved ospreys, as Julie McNicholls Vale found out.

A LOVE of ospreys has led to a new life in Machynlleth for a GP from the south of England.

A fascination with the birds of prey proved to be life changing for 51-year-old Tracy Norris, for the Hampshire GP was so enthralled with the ospreys nesting at a Welsh nature reserve that she has moved home and job to be near them.

Explaining how a doctor from England first came across the Dyfi ospreys, Tracy said: “I first visited at the end of the 2013 season. I loved the area so much that I decided to come back the following year in my camper van.”

On her return she enquired about volunteering with the observatory project, and from that moment on, she was hooked.

“I have always loved raptors and in particular ospreys,” she said.

“When I heard they were nesting here I had to visit and then to see them in all their glory was just a dream come true.”

Tracy was also attracted by news that the Cors Dyfi Nature Reserve, near Machynlleth was building a state-of-the-art osprey observatory, thanks to a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The 360 Observatory project was made possible by a grant of more than £900,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund. In addition to building the new structure the project has also improved access to the reserve, information for visitors, learning opportunities and volunteer training.

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