Team Wilder story Warmley Clock Tower

What is Warmley Clocktower?

Warmley Clocktower is an historic building and community hub, run by the Clocktower Association. In 2025, we’ve been supporting Phil Newman, their security volunteer, to develop their back yard into a wildlife haven, as part of Warmley Community Nature Reserve.

The fox that started it all 

Phil does much more than security, he also trains young people in fitness and disipline and has quietly transformed the clocktower backyard into a thriving wildlife haven. His journey began six years ago during a training session with his nephew, when a young fox appeared nearby, unfazed by their presence. “I do a lot of shouting with my students, so he must’ve gotten used to my voice,” Phil recalls. Intrigued by the fox’s calm demeanor, he began feeding it—and his connection with local wildlife grew from there.

Curious about what else visited his garden, Phil installed wildlife cameras. What he discovered surprised him: badgers, foxes, feral cats, squirrels, and a wide variety of birds, including robins and tits. “I thought, ‘My God!’ There’s so much life here.”

Following a visit from Avon Wildlife Trust, Phil was inspired to enhance the space further. “You gave me some ideas and made me more determined to make this a special place for wildlife—including insects, not just mammals. A haven where it thrives.”

Now well on his way, Phil continues to shape the backyard into a sanctuary where both people and wildlife can coexist.

• Feeding and habitat creation

  • Installed monkey nut feeders for squirrels and multiple fat ball and seed feeders for birds.
  • Added bird and bat boxes in the trees.
  • Puts out water regularly, especially during hot weather.

• Rewilding & planting

  • Reduced his training area by 75%, dedicating the rest to wildlife.
  • Allowed brambles and wildflowers to grow.
  • Planted a wide range of native species supplied by Grow Wilder, with a 96–98% success rate.
  • Created wooden planters and upcycled tyre planters.
  • Built a large soil and log bank to encourage biodiversity.

• Making a pond

  • Removed 6–7 inches of reinforced concrete to create a wildlife pond.
  • Conducted a full risk assessment to ensure safety for any public use.
  • Planted aquatic plants—all of which have taken successfully.

Early results...

Though still early in the transformation, Phil has already seen encouraging signs. “Sparrows are making an appearance for the first time in ages,” he says. A tawny owl is now a regular visitor, and he’s noticed an increase in both birds and invertebrates across the site.

“This place used to be a concrete wasteland—now it’s bursting with life,” Phil says. “I’ve done everything you’ve advised, and followed the steps properly. Next year’s going to be absolutely amazing. Happy days!”

Engaging the Community: Young People Leading the Way

Phil’s sanctuary isn’t just a haven for wildlife—it’s also become a positive force for the local Warmley community. While there used to be anti-social behaviour, after putting up cameras and starting self-policing, there are now no problems!

Young people are central to this transformation. Phil regularly involves children from the area—ranging from ages 4 to 14—in small tasks that connect them with nature. “I’m a defender of the wildlife, and the way to do that is to bring on the youngsters and make them aware.”

Support doesn’t stop when Phil’s on night shifts. A team of helpers step in to put out food and water for wildlife, ensuring care continues around the clock. Community members, trainees, and visitors all play a part—donating pots, plants, and volunteering at events like open days at the Clocktower.

“It’s had a big impact—on me and everyone else who comes to the building. It’s a calling: training people, helping them help themselves, and helping wildlife.”