ELOC WEBSITE APPEAL

The website is now operating from a new dedicated server; after the frustrating delays and time-outs experienced on the old one, we hope that all visitors are enjoying the greatly improved service.

Visitors can see all bird records by simply scrolling down the page and search them by species and/or location; Bird Guides charge 35 pounds a year for these two services. Additional services provided on the ELOC website are the ability to sort sightings by other criteria, to display summary charts and graphs by species or location, a comprehensive gazetteer of every site ever recorded (with Grid References and links to Ordnance Survey’s ‘Get-a-Map’), and forums to view information and discussions and records of other groups of animals and plants.

Anybody can make use of the facilities described above. However, it is necessary to register before submitting records or forum entries. Those who register may opt to be sent emails every time a rare bird is recorded (for which Bird Guides charge an additional 10 pounds a year) or a new photograph is posted. They can now post photographs; this facility was previously restricted to ELOC members because of the limited capacity on the old server. Registrants may also download an Excel spreadsheet of all personal records submitted to the site.

Whilst our aim is to provide all these services free of charge, use of the dedicated server is costing almost 300 pounds a year, a significant sum for a club with a modest membership. We are therefore asking whether you would make a voluntary annual donation of not less than 5 pounds, which will help guarantee the long-term future of the site. Regular visitors to the site may wish to consider donating more than the minimum. Cheques should be made payable to ELOC and posted to the Treasurer, Peter Baldwin, 9 Willaston Avenue, Blacko, Nelson, BB9 6LU. Please include your email address, to enable your donation to be acknowledged at no further cost to the club.

Thank you

Tony Cooper              Philip Hartwell
Chairman                      Webmaster

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