A grassroots conservation group set up by two neighbours is helping to protect one of Hitchin's most iconic summer visitors — the Swift.

Hitchin Swift Action was launched in July 2023 by resident Helen Matthew's and her neighbour, starting with a simple Facebook group and a handful of flyers in their local area.

From those modest beginnings, the group has now helped install nearly 200 Swift nest boxes across Hitchin.

Speaking about the initiative, Helen explained that while the town is "lucky to still have Swifts," their future is far from secure.

"Swifts are social birds, so once they leave an area it's very hard to bring them back," she said. "We could see how easily they can lose their nesting sites."

Unlike many birds, Swifts rely almost entirely on buildings for nesting — typically tucking themselves under broken roof tiles, in soffits, or in small gaps and crevices created through wear and tear.

But modern construction methods are removing these opportunities.

"Newer buildings just don't have the same spaces for cavity-nesting birds," Helen added. "As older buildings are replaced or repaired, those natural nest sites are disappearing rapidly."

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The impact has been stark. Swift populations in the UK have declined by more than 60% over the past 30 years, and the species is now on the conservation 'red list'.

To combat this, Hitchin Swift Action is encouraging residents to install nest boxes — a simple step that can make a real difference.

Anyone interested can contact the group via email at [email protected] or through their Facebook page.

However, Helen says there are even more effective options for those carrying out home improvements.

"Better than external boxes are swift bricks or soffit boxes," she said. "If you're doing building work or replacing soffits, it's really easy and inexpensive to include them. They last much longer and don't need maintenance once installed."

The group is also keen to engage the wider community and will be hosting events as part of Swift Awareness Week from 27 June to 5 July.

Previous events have included free guided "Swift walks", giving residents the chance to see the birds in action — swooping through the evening sky and returning to their nests.

Helen added: "They're incredible birds to watch, especially in groups. Once people see them up close, they really connect with why protecting them matters."

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Affinity Water has installed what is believed to be the first Swift tower in Hertfordshire, located at the top of Oughtonhead Common near the springhead.

The tower forms part of the company's Landscape and Environmental Management Plan linked to the nearby pumping station, and has been designed specifically to support local swift populations.

Supplied by Peak Boxes, the structure includes nearly 30 nesting spaces — giving Swifts a safe place to breed in an area where natural nesting spots are increasingly scarce.

With community backing continuing to grow, Hitchin Swift Action hopes its work will help ensure swifts remain a familiar sight — and sound — in the town for years to come