New community woodland unveiled in Rutland
Hundreds have rallied behind an ambitious £90,000 fundraising drive to create a new community woodland on the edge of Oakham, Rutland.
Thousands of saplings will now be planted at new 5.4-hectare (13-acre) site Harris Grove and Ball’s Meadow, off Brooke Road, Oakham. As the plot gets established it will provide an extended habitat for wildlife in and around nearby Gorse Field Wood. The new site also boasts stunning views from its elevated position overlooking Rutland Water and it is hoped it will draw thousands of visitors to the area.
Woodland Trust regional development officer Sharon Thomas, oversaw the project and today paid tribute to all who had supported it.
She said: “We are really grateful to the tremendous support we have had from the local community. A lot of people from Oakham and Stamford have contributed towards this project in some way and given Rutland is such a small county, the response really has been fantastic. This new woodland is also now the first Tree For All site within Rutland.”
Sharon highlighted the efforts of young Brooke Road Primary School pupils, who helped raise a substantial amount of money towards the project. She also thanked Gisela Gledhill and John Ball, for their generous support, help and advice. Appeal coffers were also swelled with a string of substantial personal donations and the backing of nearby firms.
The local community is now being urged to take part in a public planting day running from 11am to 1pm on March 12. It is open to all and comes ahead of a marathon five-day schools’ planting session at the site. All participants are advised to wear warm clothing and suitable footwear. Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
