Having become fully wheelchair dependant for mobility in 2014, in the aftermath of my accident I never imagined still being able to access any of the special wild places I loved so much.

However, to my relief our wild places are not out of reach for those needing mobility aids or who have accessibility needs; visiting Yorkshire Wildlife Trust’s more accessible reserves, I am still able to explore ancient woodlands, wheel my way through metres-tall reedbeds, and enjoy our wild places and wildlife.

Adel Dam is one of my favourite accessible nature reserves, located at the eastern end of Golden Acre Park, Leeds. Yorkshire Wildlife Trust have ensured that the access gate is suitable for those on wheels, and I am able to visit without any assistance.

The accessible part of this reserve – a surfaced path to the first hide, which is fully accessible for wheelchair users – allows me to fully immerse myself in a woodland and all the joys each season brings.

My favourite season is mid-spring, with birds singing and later raising their young, and beautiful flowers and buds, but summer brings lots of different insects such as damsel, dragon and butterflies, and with autumn comes fungi and the changing colour of falling leaves.

My site favourites to spot at Adel are mandarin ducks, nuthatches, kingfishers, jays, herons, egrets, red kites, deer, and if you’re very lucky, otters.

The accessible paths and wildlife hide at Adel Dam shows what can be achieved to ensure access and enjoyment for all.

With a long shallow ramp, plenty of space, no entrance door to make my access difficult, and a viewing area made so that those on wheels – who are a little lower down than the average visitor - can get a great view of the pond and bird feeders, I have had some great days out in the hide.

It’s worth noting that shutterless windows and the lack of a door mean there is also nothing to cause a loud noise, which can be an issue for some people who need total peace and quiet.

The majority of the Trust’s webpages on their nature reserves also have dedicated information about accessibility, and many have a link to Accessible Nature UK, where you can see photographs of the reserve, along with a detailed description of areas that mobility equipment users need to be aware of.

The Trust has over 110 nature reserves, from the white chalk cliffs of Flamborough to the limestone pavements of Ingleborough, and wetlands, woodlands, meadows and more in between. Featuring rich, diverse, and often ancient topography, they are hugely important places for wildlife to thrive, and one of the reasons Yorkshire is such a valuable space for our wildlife.

National Disabled Access Day is all about trying something new and celebrating places that are working hard to be as accessible as possible. Whether you’re an avid wildlife watcher or just want some fresh air and greenery, all of us can benefit from the boost being outdoors brings: take the time this weekend to explore a nature reserve which meets your needs and see what you can spot in Yorkshire’s wilder landscapes.