RESIDENTS and nature lovers will get the chance to comment on the state of affairs and running of the RSPB Rainham Marshes reserve.

It is run by the cash-strapped Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), which - in January - confirmed the closure of a café, shop and other visitor facilities at the site.

The RSPB has now announced it will be holding a Public Open Day on Wednesday, 13 August, saying the event 'aims to gather the thoughts, feedback, and ideas from local people on how to move forward with visitor experience and reserve management'.

It adds: "Following the closing of the café at the reserve at the beginning of the year, the RSPB is keen to receive feedback from the local community on the café space and answer questions regarding the Visitor Centre.

"The Open Day will run from 10-3 at the RSPB Rainham Marshes Visitor Centre and is open to all. We look forward to seeing you there."