Another alternative Kev, would be to join a local photography club. I know it's not necessarily what you're looking for, however, you will encounter like-minded people interested in wildlife, develop your skills as a photographer and more than likely go on club outings to specific places of interest.
The best place to find the closest one to you is probably here:
www.pagb-photography-uk.co.uk
Go to that link, click on the federation that best applies to you (the link is on the left-hand side) and then take it from there.
Ian G