AN award-winning field centre was officially opened yesterday in the Ministry of Defence's first local nature reserve.

Field Marshall Sir John Chapple unveiled a replica of an ancient stone to mark the completion of the Foxglove Covert field centre in Catterick Garrison. At a cost of £325,000 the centre is the new focal point on the reserve, which extends to more than 70 acres and includes ancient woodland, willow and alder carr, heathland, grassland and wetlands.

The new centre is the culmination of ten years of work by volunteers in developing the conservation project. Founder member of the conservation group Major Tony Crease said: "The stone that was unveiled is a symbolic replica of an original stone that sits on the military ranges at Gales Moor. The stone is thousands of years old and covered in markings by wandering travellers.

"I have a feeling of real satisfaction to see the centre officially up and running. The new centre was desperately needed as we had completely outgrown ourselves and the new facilities are absolutely marvellous.

"People have made a consorted effort and achieved something that wasn't easy. I am extremely grateful to the sponsors and to the people in the community who have helped with the project - and they should feel a great satisfaction as well.

"When we set out nobody really knew it would have any long-term success. That people in the local community have steadfastly supported the idea for so long is quite remarkable."

The centre is being used by schools, specialist natural history groups, beekeepers and community groups, as well as for bird-ringing courses and art classes. According to the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, it is one of the best in the country, and at the beginning of this month the centre was presented with a Conservation Award for 2002.