Work to start on ancient woodland

Buy photos » James Hitchcock at Piper’s Hill and Dodderhill Common. Picture by Nick Hands 0312029NHR2

AN ANCIENT Bromsgrove woodland will be restored to its former glory when work by the Worcestershire Wildlife Trust gets under way.

The maintenance is being carried out on the veteran trees in Piper’s Hill and Dodderhill Common, also known as Hanbury Woods.

‘Halos’ will be created around the trees to ensure they get more sunlight and soil nutrients, boosting their chances of survival.

It is the latest stage in an ongoing programme of work which was started ten years ago.

So far, it has succeeded in increased sightings of butterflies and bees using the open spaces on the sites.

James Hitchcock, conservation officer for Piper’s Hill, said the veteran trees were an essential and invaluable part of the British landscape.

“They have a huge historic and cultural heritage and are crucial for the lifecycles of numerous insects, fungus and birds.’

“The magnificent trees are hundreds of years old and originated in a wood pasture environment where they were widely spaced and able to grow. “

He added he hoped the work would replicate that environment and allow the current veteran trees to survive whilst also ensuring the growth of veteran trees of the future.

Work is due to start on February 6.

As well as that scheme, a work party takes to the woods to get small maintenance tasks done every Sunday.

Anyone interested in joining that should call 01905 754919 or e-mail: Anna on: anna@worcestershirewildlifetrust.org