West Country’s biggest new wood

THEWest of England’s largest new wood is being planted just outside Pensford. The Great Avon Wood was officially launched by Metro mayor, Dan Norris.

The charity, Avon Needs Trees, and the Forest of Avon Trust have worked together to secure over 100 acres of land near Publow.

Over the next three years, hundreds of volunteers will help to plant and care for 40,000 trees supplied by the Woodland Trust. Great Avon Wood will consist of three linked woodland sites. Both charities are now inviting people across the region to help plant this new woodland.

The charity’s director, Dave Wood, said: “The interest and support we’ve already received for Great Avon Wood has been quite astonishing.

“We’ve had the first handful of planting days fill up almost immediately, as well as groups from Black2Nature and local universities getting involved.

“We are still looking for as many individuals to get involved as possible or make a donation. We’d also like to hear from local companies who want to get involved.”

Dan Norris said: “More trees please! The West of England will need more woodland areas if we are going to reach our ambitious net-zero-by-2030 targets locally and address the biodiversity emergency here in the West.”

Avon Needs Trees is also planning new woodland near Shepton Mallet.