Firsby Reservoirs
The two areas of water at Firsby were created in the 1870s by Doncaster Corporation to act as holding reservoirs for the new main reservoir at Thrybergh. They were connected to Thrybergh Reservoir by two conduits: one of the old sluice gates can still be seen. In 1980 both Firsby and Thrybergh Reservoirs were purchased by Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council.
Firsby is a Local Nature Reserve and is managed primarily as a haven for wildlife and an area of quiet relaxation. There is a nice stroll around the lakes - can be very muddy in winter. Six cattle are currently (July 2002) kept in the park to help manage the vegetation so watch the cow splats as well.
In 2004 there have been many complaints about yobbos using Firsby for various nasty activities including hunting with dogs, shooting with air rifles and generally making nuisances of themselves in what is meant to be a haven for wildlife. I understand that mute swans bred on the reservoirs in 2004 yet all the cygnets have disappeared.
I understand that, although there is no resident ranger, the site is visited regularly to monitor leakage readings from the reservoirs and generally keep an eye on the place.