Events
The National Forest Company Bath Yard, Moira, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 6BA T: 01283 551211 E: enquiries@nationalforest.org W: nationalforest.org
A gift for just £25 nationalforest.org/sponsor/plantatree/
DECEMBER 22 Festive Gourmet Night, Calke Abbey, 01332 695310 Until 24 Christmas trees on sale at Rosliston Forestry Centre, 01283 563484 26 – 5 Jan 12 Days of Christmas Memorial Talks at the National Memorial Arboretum, 01283 2451000
MARCH
13 – 7 May Lodge Hill Bluebells (Open Fri – Sun plus Bank Holiday Mon) 07534 163861
MAy 5 Plant Hunter’s Fair, 1620s House Donington le Heath, 01455 290429 Until 7 May Lodge Hill Bluebells 19 – 20 Moira Canal Festival, moiracanalfestival.co.uk 19 – 31 National Forest Walking Festival, 01283 222848
THE NATIONAL FOREST WALKING FESTIvAL RUNS FROM 19 – 31 MAy Choose from dozens of guided walks in and around the National Forest, graded from easy to strenuous. Walks vary from one to 15 miles. Find out more: thenationalforestwalkingfestival .org.uk
GREEN GROWTH IN THE NATIONAL FOREST
Tourism Growth Plan for the Forest targets 700 new jobs over next ten years
Ambitious plans to drive continued growth in the tourism sector of the National Forest were launched in parliament and at an outdoor event in the Forest in the autumn (see above). The Forest’s new Tourism Growth Plan builds on 25 years of successful partnership working, to strengthen and grow sustainable tourism in the Forest. The ambition is to increase visitor spending by at least 15% and create and sustain over 700 new jobs. This builds on our existing success: visitor numbers to the Forest have now topped 8 million, tourism spend has reached £395.2m, sustaining 4,849 FTE jobs. James Berresford, former CEO of VisitEngland and National Forest tourism champion, formally launched the ten-year Plan in a woodland tipi at a special launch event in the Forest. He said:
“The new Tourism Growth Plan expresses the National Forest’s aspirations to be at the cutting edge of innovation and sustainability in rural tourism. During my time working in the tourism sector I have seen the National Forest build a reputation for offering a range of attractions, activities and places to stay, as one of the UK’s most accessible woodland destinations. The next ten years will move the Forest from an emerging destination into an established one. This Plan is about the wise growth of tourism, and stimulating a cycle of investment to enable the Forest to thrive as a destination.” The Timber festival is the first expression of the Plan, bringing visitors and communities together for an awe-inspiring celebration of
Corporate day in the Forest
In the year that james Latham celebrates its 260th anniversary, the relationship between the company and the National Forest goes from strength to strength. 2017 has also seen the 10th anniversary of the partnership with the National Forest Company, and to mark the occasion James Latham staff and customers have been out and about in the Forest helping with management tasks and planting trees. James Latham has also committed to substantial support for Timber, the new festival in the Forest, not least the supply of the majority of timber that will be needed for the event. Forest Scene asked Chris Sutton, Managing Director of James Latham, to explain more about the unique relationship between his business and the National Forest.
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plantatree to remember a loved one. Many people find comfort in planting a tree to remember and celebrate the life of a special person. See nationalforest.org/sponsor/plantatree
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CS: Personally, I remember when it was coal mines and slag heaps in the 70s; everywhere was dark; a really grey area. Then the Forest made a total transformation, and brought a great uplift to local towns. It’s cleaner, there’s less heavy traffic. FS: Tell us a bit about the world of James Latham: CS: We are an importer and distributor of wood-based products, and insist our partners engage in replanting and sustainable forestry management. Wood is the planet’s best renewable resource, and is such a versatile material. It’s fantastic to see sustainable building materials using timber construction are in vogue with architects and designers, it has great performance qualities. As an industry, forestry has had a bad press but now the emphasis is on legal, sustainable timber. At James Latham we work to the highest certification standards, and I and my colleagues travel the world to visit our suppliers, making sure our requirements for the highest ethical standards are met. Working with the National Forest is a great way for us to underline our commitment to sustainable forestry in the UK. FS: What’s your favourite tree? CS: I’m an oak man, but the most beautiful trees I have ever seen were hundreds of silver birch in the snow on the shores of the thousand lakes in eastern Finland. It was breathtaking. You never get bored of seeing birch.
BRAND NEW FESTIVAL “TIMBER” LAUNCHES IN THE NATIONAL FOREST
iTree
BURTON’S URBAN FOREST As previously reported in Forest Scene, we have been working with partners to measure the condition of the urban forest in Burton upon Trent, the largest town in the Forest. An army of volunteers carried out an iTree Survey last summer, looking at 250 sample plots, and the data has now been brought together to give a picture of tree cover for the whole town. The headline results are that Burton has a population of around 100,000 trees. While this sounds impressive, this equates to a tree cover of 9.4%. This compares poorly with other towns and cities which have undertaken a similar study (London has a tree cover of 14% for example). The research has also shown that the variety of tree species is also not as broad as it could be and that the proportion of mature trees is low. More different types of trees give the urban forest resilience to pests and diseases while older trees provide proportionally greater benefits in terms of holding back storm water and removing air pollution due to their size. A management Plan has been published to address these issues and enhance Burton’s urban forest to maximise the
We’re delighted to announce our new festival, Timber, will take place next year, from 6 – 8 july.
benefits it provides. The first aim of the plan is obviously to plant more trees! Particularly in urban areas this must be the right tree in the right place: where they can grow to their full height without needing regular maintenance, and where they don’t conflict with underground utilities or overhang pavements. The first step has been to launch a free tree scheme, so successful in other Forest towns, in Burton. With the help of East Staffordshire Borough Council two free trees are available for Burton residents to collect from the Potting Shed at Stapenhill Cemetery. In addition, residents are being asked to nominate suitable planting sites. The suggested sites, whether they be in parks, roadside verges, housing estates or other open spaces will be assessed for their suitability with the best being planted with suitable tree species during the 2018-19 planting season.
Further information and a copy of the full report can be found at https://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/Burton-Tree -Project/Burton-Tree-Project.aspx or if you would like more information or to get involved in the project please contact dianne.hewgill@staffordshire.gov.uk
The Tourism Growth Plan and video are available on the National Forest website visitnationalforest.co.uk/tourismgrowthplan
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You can find the National Forest on Facebook, and we tweet @NatForestCo Follow Timber Festival on Facebook, and @timber_festival on Twitter
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ForestScene WINTER 2017/18
Coalville
FS: How have you seen the area change as the Forest has developed?
ton at wor k
6 Using Plants to Read the Landscape, talk by Black to Green at YHA National Forest. Booking essential on 01283 551211
Leicester
Ashby de la Zouch
CS: We love our corporate days in the Forest: you can leave your phone, forget about work. You’re out in the fresh air, getting exercise and really aware of everything around you. Over the ten years we’ve really seen how things have grown, how the landscape has changed. As a company, and as individuals, we feel we’re putting something back in.
Chris Sut
FEBRUARy
the transformational impact of the National Forest. Other investment opportunities for green growth highlighted in the Plan include new Forest-related attractions, additional high-quality accommodation in a woodland setting, and events and activities that harness the appeal of the National Forest. The launch event was hosted by Field and Forest Weddings in Yoxall, Staffordshire, who work with Peak Tipis to provide a unique wedding celebration experience within the National Forest. Dave Garner, co-owner of Field and Forest Weddings, also opens the woodlands to the public each spring as Lodge Hill Bluebells. He is one of a number of businesses already working with the National Forest Company and supporting the Tourism Growth Plan. Dave said: “As a growing business in the National Forest, we are delighted to be working closely with the National Forest Company. We share completely the same values: we want do something positive for the community and the environment and by doing so we will build a successful business. We’ve planted trees through one of their schemes, we have an active woodland management plan and we welcome visitors to enjoy our woodlands each spring for the annual bluebell festival. More recently we have grown our business to make best use of our magnificent setting to offer stunning woodland weddings and outdoor events.”
Birmingham
Nottingham
Swadlincote
“PUTTING SOMETHING BACK” WITH jAMES LATHAM
Until 5 12 Days of Christmas Memorial Talks at the National Memorial Arboretum, 01283 2451000 12/13/14 Aladdin Panto at Conkers Discovery Centre, 01283 216633 17 Bread for Beginners, Calke Abbey, 01332 695310
APRIL
Burton upon Trent
Large print version available Tel: 01283 551211
jANUARy
6 Two Fields: Green to Black, talk by Black to Green at YHA National Forest. Booking essential on 01283 551211 31 Spotlight on Trees at The National Memorial Arboretum, 01283 245100
Derby
nationalforest.org
Photographs courtesy of Darren Cresswell, Chris Donohoe, Diana Jarvis, Jacqui Rock, Greenwood Days, James Latham, UK Coal, Wild Rumpus/Teneight.
It will be the only international forest festival in the UK. Festival goers will experience the transformative impact of forests with artists, musicians, scientists and thinkers from across the world. Come and explore what woodlands can mean to us and how we can re-imagine our relationship with our environment. We’re working with Wild Rumpus, award-winning producers of the Just So Festival, who will create with us a tree-themed wonderland at beautiful Feanedock, near Moira. The 70-acre site features hundred-year old woodland, open glades and young planting in copses and along the hillside.
Its location in the Heart of the Forest makes it perfect for telling the story of the Forest, highlighted by the Black to Green project, and how trees have created a new landscape, taking the area from coal pits to tree tops.
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John Everitt, Chief Executive, National Forest Company, said: “Timber is both a celebration and statement of intent: a celebration of how the National Forest has transformed 200 square miles of the English Midlands, and a statement of intent to create an international movement to champion forests. The festival will shine a spotlight on trees as a catalyst for change.” Sarah Bird and Rowan Hoban, Directors of Wild Rumpus, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with the National Forest Company to create Timber together. We can’t wait to welcome audiences to the first festival which will provide incredible experiences and, we hope, fast become a solid addition to the thriving UK festival scene.”
READ MORE ON PAGE 3
Early bird tickets are available now, and all Forest residents can purchase discounted tickets. For more information and tickets visit timberfestival.org.uk
LEARNING UNDER THE OPEN SKY “The Creating a Forest for Learning project is visionary and very much an exemplar for the rest of the UK…you are really listening to the needs of schools, providing practical help and funding that will have a long term impact.”
Sylva Foundation
Outdoor learning in the National Forest
plantatree
We reported in a recent Forest Scene that generous funding from the Audemars Piguet Foundation had enabled us to develop Creating a Forest for Learning, a ground-breaking project to fully embed outdoor learning in the education of every child in the Forest.
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READ MORE ON PAGE 3
The National Forest – transforming 200 square miles of central England
William’s column
“What the National Forest has done for a great swathe of the post-industrial Midlands is an unsung miracle.” These words appeared in The Times this autumn, written by Christopher Somerville, and I quoted them at the start of my speech at our recent Parliamentary event at the House of Commons. We know that it is not entirely unsung, but the achievements that have been made in creating the Forest are not far short of miraculous. It has been said before, but is worth saying again, that the success of the Forest is rooted in the integrity of the original, completely visionary Strategy, and the passion and commitment with which this has been signed-up to by our partners and supporters. I was delighted to hear this sentiment in the words of the Rural Affairs Minister, Lord Gardiner, as he launched our Tourism Growth Plan in
parliament, describing this work as an exemplar of sustainability ‘supporting clean growth through partnerships with businesses that value and contribute to the natural environment’. As the Minister noted, the National Forest is a great example of what the Government’s new 25 year Environment Plan aims to achieve. In fact, vision flows through everything we do and is reflected in this issue of Forest Scene, from the Growth Plan to the Festival, Charnwood Forest to Whistlewood Common. We know we have so much more to do as the story of the Forest continues, and that we can’t do it without your support. So please do sign up to follow our progress as we move Forest Scene online, and be part of the next stage of the growth of the National Forest. With your help we’ll continue to show the country as a whole the power of forests and trees to transform lives, the landscape and the economy. And there’ll be a lot more singing about it!
AWARD–WINNING GREENWOOD DAyS
Peter Wood (see above, seated) moved to the National Forest and set up the centre in 1998, seeing the potential of the young Forest for building his business. In his first year he ran a couple of courses teaching the ancient craft of pole lathe (greenwood) turning; 2018 sees the centre’s 20th anniversary, when nearly 40 courses will be offered in a range of different crafts from one day taster sessions in willow weaving or spoon carving to seven day intensive Windsor chair making courses.
attendees. Peter said: “It's really heartening to learn how much people enjoy coming out to the wood, having a good time and learning different skills.
Greenwood Days was nominated for the award by course
See the full range of courses at greenwooddays.co.uk
TEN yEARS OF THE NATIONAL FOREST ‘FREEWOODS SCHEME’:
Sir William Worsley, Chair, National Forest Company
Whistlewood Common is a fascinating example of how a community can come together to make social change happen. This thriving community woodland in Melbourne, South Derbyshire, runs as a social enterprise company. Following The new straw-bale, timber-framed roundhouse will be constructed the purchase of the original using timber from the National woodland site, made possible Forest and will be a venue for through a community share workshops, education, and events. scheme supported by the National Forest Company, they have recently secured £115,000 to carry out improvements to infrastructure, including the creation of a stunning new roundhouse. The funds were raised through a second community share offer, combined with match funding from the NFC and lottery-funded Power to Change. Anyone over 16 can become a Whistlewood shareholder, and support the organisation’s aims of helping people learn how to live more sustainably, showing how communities can respond to climate change, resource depletion and economic uncertainty. There are plenty of opportunities for local people to get involved. See more at whistlewoodcommon.org
Compared with the vastness of many of the new woods created across the National Forest, those planted under the Freewoods Scheme are no doubt at the smaller end of the spectrum. The Freewoods Scheme can fund the creation of woods from just 0.6 acre up to two and a half acres. However size is, of course, relative. Einstein would no doubt conclude that these are still all woods in their own right and contribute much to the Forest
The three-year project aims to establish a sustainable step change in outdoor learning: initially, every primary schoolchild in the National Forest will have the opportunity to experience regular outdoor learning sessions, in their own school grounds, or within walking distance of their school. To enable this to happen we have to understand what activity is currently taking place in our primary schools, and where the gaps are. Often a school may feel they do not have the expertise to deliver this kind of teaching – it can feel a little daunting at first to teach outside, beyond the classroom, but very soon the benefits are being felt from being under the open sky amongst the trees.
“I aim to make the centre a welcoming and inspiring place to learn from some of the best crafts people in the country and the National Forest itself is an integral part of what we offer. It’s now a great source of timber from hazel to young ash thinnings for Windsor chairs.”
Teachers are inspired by seeing the transformation that outdoor learning can bring about in young
If you own land in the National Forest and would like information on how to create your own small (but perfectly formed) wood for free then contact Simon Greenhouse at the NFC on 01283 551211 or by email sgreenhouse@nationalforest.org
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We have also made funding available to enhance school grounds as many schools do not have a suitable outdoor area. Our forestry team can advise schools on making the most of their grounds, and funds are also available to support nearby woodland owners who may be interested in inviting schools to use their woods. This is bold and visionary work. We want the National Forest to set the example for the rest of the country that outdoor learning and all the benefits it brings of boosting confidence, improving health and wellbeing, concentration and physical activity, is made available by right to all children.
Charnwood Forest is a surprising outpost of upland England in lowland Leicestershire. Having been created in a volcanic eruption 600 million years ago, Charnwood has developed rich layers of heritage. Its landscape is defined by granite-topped hills, wooded valleys, heathlands and grasslands. Its shaded lanes reveal Arts and Craft cottages, ancient monasteries and drystone walls. About two thirds of the ancient Charnwood Forest lies within the 200 square miles of the larger National Forest, and its unique landscape is a vital ingredient in the overall variety of the wider Forest. But although the magnificent landscape of Charnwood Forest lies on the doorstep of Leicester, Loughborough and Coalville, it is not as well known or understood as it should be. This puts it at risk: if people are not passionate about Charnwood, they will not understand its importance, and ultimately the things that make it so special risk being lost and forgotten. To address this, the Charnwood Forest Landscape Partnership Scheme aims to raise the profile of England’s unexpected uplands. John Everitt, Chief Executive, National Forest Company, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to develop the Charnwood landscape and we are grateful to the Heritage Lottery Fund and to all National Lottery players for making it possible. Charnwood is a key landscape within the wider National Forest: a unique upland landscape with ancient woodland and a rich history. We look forward to working with
This is a National Forest Scheme that provides free trees, fencing and labour for landowners wishing to plant in field corners, in an unused paddock or along the side of a public park. Schools, Parish Councils, smallholders, farmers and golf clubs have between them created 94 new ‘Freewoods’ since 2007, contributing over 135 acres (55 hectares) to woodland cover in the National Forest.
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people, but sometimes lack the expertise and confidence to run sessions themselves. We have established a grant process to fund training and to introduce them to skilled practitioners.
Feedback on Creating a Forest for Learning in the National Forest: “The boys loved this activity and it gave them a real sense of achievement.” “They are excited about coming to sessions, they work hard, create new ideas, are starting to be more positive towards others and are starting to achieve.” “Thank you to Caroline for all of her input – she has shared some good ideas with us and has been a great guide. It is much appreciated!” You can see more about the project on our website and watch a video filmed at our launch event. http://www.nationalforest.org /involved/education/learning.php Schools interested in finding out more can contact Caroline Scothern by emailing cscothern @nationalforest.org
A partnership set up to protect Charnwood Forest has been successful in its £2.75m grant bid for initial support by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).
Just as individual hedgerow trees can punctuate and add interest to an open landscape, small copses and coverts, shelterbelts and thickets can help to visually link the Forest landscape together creating a rich, cohesive tapestry of wooded habitats, pasture, hedgerows and farmland.
and create a green and living memory. See nationalforest.org/sponsor/legacy/
HICKS LODGE TRUST WINDS UP AFTER 12 yEARS SUPPORTING LOCAL COMMUNITy GROUPS
GOOD NEWS FOR CHARNWOOD
landscape. They are large enough to become a tranquil home for local wildlife and can act as ‘stepping stones’ for an array of creatures that would otherwise struggle to move across open areas from habitat to habitat.
Leave a legacy to the National Forest
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LEARNING UNDER THE OPEN SKY
Greenwood Days, a woodland craft teaching centre on the border of Derbyshire and Leicestershire in the heart of the National Forest, has been awarded ‘Best Woodland Courses’ by woodlands.co.uk
‘SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL’
WHISTLEWOOD
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all our partners to bring Charnwood’s stories to life and help the surrounding communities engage with this very special place. The Development Phase of the project kicks off in April 2018 and we will be recruiting two new team members to work on the project in the new year.” The National Forest Company led the bid on behalf of the Charnwood Forest Regional Park partnership, with financial support from Leicestershire County Council, Charnwood Borough Council, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council and North West Leicestershire District Council.
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TIMBER
But from the late 1990s until the late 2000s, it was a surface coal mine.
Activities at the new festival will include:
Angela Chamberlain (pictured right) Chair of Hicks Lodge Trust and local resident, told Forest Scene more about the history of the site.
Provocation: Writers, artists, poets, scientists, philosophers and educators will help us reimagine what woodlands and trees mean to us. Expect a curated programme of talks and discussions exploring how we interact with nature and the environment.
She said: “To look at Hicks Lodge now, you would never believe what it used to look like: even before the recent working, it was derelict. We were surrounded by deep mines, and roads often thick with mud from clay and coal extraction. In 1986 AF Budge applied for further clay and coal extraction at Hicks Lodge, followed by waste tipping. This was a step too far."
Sound: An ambitious adventure into sound and music, rooted in the forest. Venture into the woods to be immersed in compelling sound installations, storytelling, soundscapes and choirs will bring the woods to life through song. Light: Torchlight processions, light projections, fire gardens, luminous installations, will help us see the forest in a new light.
Following a lengthy campaign that
spoke more about the Trust’s work. “Using the interest we were able to earn, the Trust has been able to grant-aid many local groups in our parishes. We helped Moira Youth Club, Oakthorpe Media Suite, Donisthorpe Orchard, HeadstArt group, Moira Replan Pottery Group, the Friends of Ashby Bath Grounds and Black to Green projects. We also funded a bench for our firefighters when we lost the fire station – the list is endless! “But it’s time now to wind up the Trust. Interest rates have influenced the decision, but also it is increasingly difficult to find
Feast: A joyous exploration of food and drink, from farmers’ market stalls to food trucks, foraging workshops to picnics and banquets, we’ll be contemplating and consuming some fantastic fodder. Time: Inspired by our very own National Forest Noon Columns created by international artist David Nash, we’ll explore the atmosphere in the woods at twilight, midnight dusk and dawn to delight in the rhythms of the day. We’ll be singing the dawn chorus, running through the gloaming, and revelling at midnight gigs.
Hicks Lodge natural play area, 2013
reached the national papers, the Ashby Woulds Forum was formed to address all potential problems with local mineral permissions. It was a first in the country, and became a model that was adopted elsewhere, showing how communities and developers could work together. There were compromises on both sides; the results are for everyone to judge.
Gather: We’ll come together to celebrate and carouse in a world of arts, crafts and enterprise rooted in the forest, creating a vibrant living landscape. Breathe: Relax and soak in the landscape all around, take time to revel in the beauty, solace and artistry of nature. Drink in the forest air from our eco-spa, revel in yoga practice and other relaxation activities, contemplate the seasons and enjoy the tranquillity of the environment.
In 2005, UK Coal applied to extend working. Their permission required, by condition, that they lodge £25,000 into a fund for the benefit of the communities affected. Hicks Lodge Trust was established, and having been Chair from the beginning, Angela
For more information and tickets visit timberfestival.org.uk
Final print version of Forest Scene In order to bring you more regular news about the Forest, we’re moving to a new online format for Forest Scene. If you would like to receive our new e-newsletter, please email us at forestscene@nationalforest.org giving your name and postcode, plus the identification number from your Forest Scene mailing if you have it. Thank you! We look forward to staying in touch.
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Hicks Lodge is a welcoming woodland with miles of walking and cycle trails, a cycle hire centre and café, and is home to many species of wildlife and plants.
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volunteers. I would like to thank all of our Trustees, and hope we have been able to make a difference, in our small way. “What I really love now is walking my dog Paco, and appreciating our wonderful birds. From having an open cast site close to my home, I now have a regular visiting kingfisher, and up to 150 fieldfare and redwing swing by as the cold weather draws in.”
Hicks Lodge open cast mine, late 1990s
BEES, BALLADS & TREE RABBITS Black to Green has been delivering exciting projects across the Heart of the Forest. Donisthorpe Primary School took part in ‘Singing Our Heritage’, delivered by Broadside Ballad singer Jennifer Reid, artist Dan Russell and linguist Natalie Braber. The children learnt about Pit Talk, the old colloquial language of the miners, and wrote songs about mining, brickmaking and the canals. As well as learning about wildlife species found in the Heart of the Forest, they designed their own totem animals and discovered the story of the mysterious tree rabbits. A film of the children’s work will be available to view on the Black to Green website shortly, and the Heart of the Forest Ballad Collective, who have also been working with Jennifer Reid, are creating a booklet of local songs and prints. Local families have been part of Miniature Worlds, a unique event held at Pick Triangle, Albert Village. The event focused in on the tiny wildlife species inhabiting the site from lichen to invertebrates. Families could join OPAL Community Scientist Jackie Adams on a bug safari, create a
match box nature collection with Leicestershire County Council Family Learning and take part in a special arts activity creating miniature clay sculptures inspired by plants and insects. The event took place as part of ‘Woods on your Doorstep’, a strand of Black to Green encouraging people to explore local woodlands they haven’t visited before. In the spring, Black to Green will be creating new wildlife habitats at Boothorpe, adjacent to the Timber festival site. They’ll be planting an orchard and sowing wildflowers with the help of local groups, and working with local beekeeper David McDowell, The Bee Farmer, to set up an apiary. These new bee hives will also feature at Timber, where festival attendees can try their hand at beekeeping. Black to Green is supported by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund to tell the story of the extraordinary landscape transformation that has taken place across the Heart of the Forest over the last 25 years.
Lino print by Becky Wood, member of the Heart of the Forest Ballad Collective
Angela concludes: “It is truly amazing to think of the changes this site has seen and I hope that all our visitors, and residents, appreciate and enjoy what we now have.”
Look out for #forestlife
Highlighting events, activities and experiences throughout the National Forest.
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William’s column
“What the National Forest has done for a great swathe of the post-industrial Midlands is an unsung miracle.” These words appeared in The Times this autumn, written by Christopher Somerville, and I quoted them at the start of my speech at our recent Parliamentary event at the House of Commons. We know that it is not entirely unsung, but the achievements that have been made in creating the Forest are not far short of miraculous. It has been said before, but is worth saying again, that the success of the Forest is rooted in the integrity of the original, completely visionary Strategy, and the passion and commitment with which this has been signed-up to by our partners and supporters. I was delighted to hear this sentiment in the words of the Rural Affairs Minister, Lord Gardiner, as he launched our Tourism Growth Plan in
parliament, describing this work as an exemplar of sustainability ‘supporting clean growth through partnerships with businesses that value and contribute to the natural environment’. As the Minister noted, the National Forest is a great example of what the Government’s new 25 year Environment Plan aims to achieve. In fact, vision flows through everything we do and is reflected in this issue of Forest Scene, from the Growth Plan to the Festival, Charnwood Forest to Whistlewood Common. We know we have so much more to do as the story of the Forest continues, and that we can’t do it without your support. So please do sign up to follow our progress as we move Forest Scene online, and be part of the next stage of the growth of the National Forest. With your help we’ll continue to show the country as a whole the power of forests and trees to transform lives, the landscape and the economy. And there’ll be a lot more singing about it!
AWARD–WINNING GREENWOOD DAyS
Peter Wood (see above, seated) moved to the National Forest and set up the centre in 1998, seeing the potential of the young Forest for building his business. In his first year he ran a couple of courses teaching the ancient craft of pole lathe (greenwood) turning; 2018 sees the centre’s 20th anniversary, when nearly 40 courses will be offered in a range of different crafts from one day taster sessions in willow weaving or spoon carving to seven day intensive Windsor chair making courses.
attendees. Peter said: “It's really heartening to learn how much people enjoy coming out to the wood, having a good time and learning different skills.
Greenwood Days was nominated for the award by course
See the full range of courses at greenwooddays.co.uk
TEN yEARS OF THE NATIONAL FOREST ‘FREEWOODS SCHEME’:
Sir William Worsley, Chair, National Forest Company
Whistlewood Common is a fascinating example of how a community can come together to make social change happen. This thriving community woodland in Melbourne, South Derbyshire, runs as a social enterprise company. Following The new straw-bale, timber-framed roundhouse will be constructed the purchase of the original using timber from the National woodland site, made possible Forest and will be a venue for through a community share workshops, education, and events. scheme supported by the National Forest Company, they have recently secured £115,000 to carry out improvements to infrastructure, including the creation of a stunning new roundhouse. The funds were raised through a second community share offer, combined with match funding from the NFC and lottery-funded Power to Change. Anyone over 16 can become a Whistlewood shareholder, and support the organisation’s aims of helping people learn how to live more sustainably, showing how communities can respond to climate change, resource depletion and economic uncertainty. There are plenty of opportunities for local people to get involved. See more at whistlewoodcommon.org
Compared with the vastness of many of the new woods created across the National Forest, those planted under the Freewoods Scheme are no doubt at the smaller end of the spectrum. The Freewoods Scheme can fund the creation of woods from just 0.6 acre up to two and a half acres. However size is, of course, relative. Einstein would no doubt conclude that these are still all woods in their own right and contribute much to the Forest
The three-year project aims to establish a sustainable step change in outdoor learning: initially, every primary schoolchild in the National Forest will have the opportunity to experience regular outdoor learning sessions, in their own school grounds, or within walking distance of their school. To enable this to happen we have to understand what activity is currently taking place in our primary schools, and where the gaps are. Often a school may feel they do not have the expertise to deliver this kind of teaching – it can feel a little daunting at first to teach outside, beyond the classroom, but very soon the benefits are being felt from being under the open sky amongst the trees.
“I aim to make the centre a welcoming and inspiring place to learn from some of the best crafts people in the country and the National Forest itself is an integral part of what we offer. It’s now a great source of timber from hazel to young ash thinnings for Windsor chairs.”
Teachers are inspired by seeing the transformation that outdoor learning can bring about in young
If you own land in the National Forest and would like information on how to create your own small (but perfectly formed) wood for free then contact Simon Greenhouse at the NFC on 01283 551211 or by email sgreenhouse@nationalforest.org
[
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]
We have also made funding available to enhance school grounds as many schools do not have a suitable outdoor area. Our forestry team can advise schools on making the most of their grounds, and funds are also available to support nearby woodland owners who may be interested in inviting schools to use their woods. This is bold and visionary work. We want the National Forest to set the example for the rest of the country that outdoor learning and all the benefits it brings of boosting confidence, improving health and wellbeing, concentration and physical activity, is made available by right to all children.
Charnwood Forest is a surprising outpost of upland England in lowland Leicestershire. Having been created in a volcanic eruption 600 million years ago, Charnwood has developed rich layers of heritage. Its landscape is defined by granite-topped hills, wooded valleys, heathlands and grasslands. Its shaded lanes reveal Arts and Craft cottages, ancient monasteries and drystone walls. About two thirds of the ancient Charnwood Forest lies within the 200 square miles of the larger National Forest, and its unique landscape is a vital ingredient in the overall variety of the wider Forest. But although the magnificent landscape of Charnwood Forest lies on the doorstep of Leicester, Loughborough and Coalville, it is not as well known or understood as it should be. This puts it at risk: if people are not passionate about Charnwood, they will not understand its importance, and ultimately the things that make it so special risk being lost and forgotten. To address this, the Charnwood Forest Landscape Partnership Scheme aims to raise the profile of England’s unexpected uplands. John Everitt, Chief Executive, National Forest Company, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to develop the Charnwood landscape and we are grateful to the Heritage Lottery Fund and to all National Lottery players for making it possible. Charnwood is a key landscape within the wider National Forest: a unique upland landscape with ancient woodland and a rich history. We look forward to working with
This is a National Forest Scheme that provides free trees, fencing and labour for landowners wishing to plant in field corners, in an unused paddock or along the side of a public park. Schools, Parish Councils, smallholders, farmers and golf clubs have between them created 94 new ‘Freewoods’ since 2007, contributing over 135 acres (55 hectares) to woodland cover in the National Forest.
>>
people, but sometimes lack the expertise and confidence to run sessions themselves. We have established a grant process to fund training and to introduce them to skilled practitioners.
Feedback on Creating a Forest for Learning in the National Forest: “The boys loved this activity and it gave them a real sense of achievement.” “They are excited about coming to sessions, they work hard, create new ideas, are starting to be more positive towards others and are starting to achieve.” “Thank you to Caroline for all of her input – she has shared some good ideas with us and has been a great guide. It is much appreciated!” You can see more about the project on our website and watch a video filmed at our launch event. http://www.nationalforest.org /involved/education/learning.php Schools interested in finding out more can contact Caroline Scothern by emailing cscothern @nationalforest.org
A partnership set up to protect Charnwood Forest has been successful in its £2.75m grant bid for initial support by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).
Just as individual hedgerow trees can punctuate and add interest to an open landscape, small copses and coverts, shelterbelts and thickets can help to visually link the Forest landscape together creating a rich, cohesive tapestry of wooded habitats, pasture, hedgerows and farmland.
and create a green and living memory. See nationalforest.org/sponsor/legacy/
HICKS LODGE TRUST WINDS UP AFTER 12 yEARS SUPPORTING LOCAL COMMUNITy GROUPS
GOOD NEWS FOR CHARNWOOD
landscape. They are large enough to become a tranquil home for local wildlife and can act as ‘stepping stones’ for an array of creatures that would otherwise struggle to move across open areas from habitat to habitat.
Leave a legacy to the National Forest
CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE:
LEARNING UNDER THE OPEN SKY
Greenwood Days, a woodland craft teaching centre on the border of Derbyshire and Leicestershire in the heart of the National Forest, has been awarded ‘Best Woodland Courses’ by woodlands.co.uk
‘SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL’
WHISTLEWOOD
>>
[
all our partners to bring Charnwood’s stories to life and help the surrounding communities engage with this very special place. The Development Phase of the project kicks off in April 2018 and we will be recruiting two new team members to work on the project in the new year.” The National Forest Company led the bid on behalf of the Charnwood Forest Regional Park partnership, with financial support from Leicestershire County Council, Charnwood Borough Council, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council and North West Leicestershire District Council.
>>
CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE:
TIMBER
But from the late 1990s until the late 2000s, it was a surface coal mine.
Activities at the new festival will include:
Angela Chamberlain (pictured right) Chair of Hicks Lodge Trust and local resident, told Forest Scene more about the history of the site.
Provocation: Writers, artists, poets, scientists, philosophers and educators will help us reimagine what woodlands and trees mean to us. Expect a curated programme of talks and discussions exploring how we interact with nature and the environment.
She said: “To look at Hicks Lodge now, you would never believe what it used to look like: even before the recent working, it was derelict. We were surrounded by deep mines, and roads often thick with mud from clay and coal extraction. In 1986 AF Budge applied for further clay and coal extraction at Hicks Lodge, followed by waste tipping. This was a step too far."
Sound: An ambitious adventure into sound and music, rooted in the forest. Venture into the woods to be immersed in compelling sound installations, storytelling, soundscapes and choirs will bring the woods to life through song. Light: Torchlight processions, light projections, fire gardens, luminous installations, will help us see the forest in a new light.
Following a lengthy campaign that
spoke more about the Trust’s work. “Using the interest we were able to earn, the Trust has been able to grant-aid many local groups in our parishes. We helped Moira Youth Club, Oakthorpe Media Suite, Donisthorpe Orchard, HeadstArt group, Moira Replan Pottery Group, the Friends of Ashby Bath Grounds and Black to Green projects. We also funded a bench for our firefighters when we lost the fire station – the list is endless! “But it’s time now to wind up the Trust. Interest rates have influenced the decision, but also it is increasingly difficult to find
Feast: A joyous exploration of food and drink, from farmers’ market stalls to food trucks, foraging workshops to picnics and banquets, we’ll be contemplating and consuming some fantastic fodder. Time: Inspired by our very own National Forest Noon Columns created by international artist David Nash, we’ll explore the atmosphere in the woods at twilight, midnight dusk and dawn to delight in the rhythms of the day. We’ll be singing the dawn chorus, running through the gloaming, and revelling at midnight gigs.
Hicks Lodge natural play area, 2013
reached the national papers, the Ashby Woulds Forum was formed to address all potential problems with local mineral permissions. It was a first in the country, and became a model that was adopted elsewhere, showing how communities and developers could work together. There were compromises on both sides; the results are for everyone to judge.
Gather: We’ll come together to celebrate and carouse in a world of arts, crafts and enterprise rooted in the forest, creating a vibrant living landscape. Breathe: Relax and soak in the landscape all around, take time to revel in the beauty, solace and artistry of nature. Drink in the forest air from our eco-spa, revel in yoga practice and other relaxation activities, contemplate the seasons and enjoy the tranquillity of the environment.
In 2005, UK Coal applied to extend working. Their permission required, by condition, that they lodge £25,000 into a fund for the benefit of the communities affected. Hicks Lodge Trust was established, and having been Chair from the beginning, Angela
For more information and tickets visit timberfestival.org.uk
Final print version of Forest Scene In order to bring you more regular news about the Forest, we’re moving to a new online format for Forest Scene. If you would like to receive our new e-newsletter, please email us at forestscene@nationalforest.org giving your name and postcode, plus the identification number from your Forest Scene mailing if you have it. Thank you! We look forward to staying in touch.
>> page 3
Hicks Lodge is a welcoming woodland with miles of walking and cycle trails, a cycle hire centre and café, and is home to many species of wildlife and plants.
]
>> >> page 4
[
volunteers. I would like to thank all of our Trustees, and hope we have been able to make a difference, in our small way. “What I really love now is walking my dog Paco, and appreciating our wonderful birds. From having an open cast site close to my home, I now have a regular visiting kingfisher, and up to 150 fieldfare and redwing swing by as the cold weather draws in.”
Hicks Lodge open cast mine, late 1990s
BEES, BALLADS & TREE RABBITS Black to Green has been delivering exciting projects across the Heart of the Forest. Donisthorpe Primary School took part in ‘Singing Our Heritage’, delivered by Broadside Ballad singer Jennifer Reid, artist Dan Russell and linguist Natalie Braber. The children learnt about Pit Talk, the old colloquial language of the miners, and wrote songs about mining, brickmaking and the canals. As well as learning about wildlife species found in the Heart of the Forest, they designed their own totem animals and discovered the story of the mysterious tree rabbits. A film of the children’s work will be available to view on the Black to Green website shortly, and the Heart of the Forest Ballad Collective, who have also been working with Jennifer Reid, are creating a booklet of local songs and prints. Local families have been part of Miniature Worlds, a unique event held at Pick Triangle, Albert Village. The event focused in on the tiny wildlife species inhabiting the site from lichen to invertebrates. Families could join OPAL Community Scientist Jackie Adams on a bug safari, create a
match box nature collection with Leicestershire County Council Family Learning and take part in a special arts activity creating miniature clay sculptures inspired by plants and insects. The event took place as part of ‘Woods on your Doorstep’, a strand of Black to Green encouraging people to explore local woodlands they haven’t visited before. In the spring, Black to Green will be creating new wildlife habitats at Boothorpe, adjacent to the Timber festival site. They’ll be planting an orchard and sowing wildflowers with the help of local groups, and working with local beekeeper David McDowell, The Bee Farmer, to set up an apiary. These new bee hives will also feature at Timber, where festival attendees can try their hand at beekeeping. Black to Green is supported by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund to tell the story of the extraordinary landscape transformation that has taken place across the Heart of the Forest over the last 25 years.
Lino print by Becky Wood, member of the Heart of the Forest Ballad Collective
Angela concludes: “It is truly amazing to think of the changes this site has seen and I hope that all our visitors, and residents, appreciate and enjoy what we now have.”
Look out for #forestlife
Highlighting events, activities and experiences throughout the National Forest.
]
>>
William’s column
“What the National Forest has done for a great swathe of the post-industrial Midlands is an unsung miracle.” These words appeared in The Times this autumn, written by Christopher Somerville, and I quoted them at the start of my speech at our recent Parliamentary event at the House of Commons. We know that it is not entirely unsung, but the achievements that have been made in creating the Forest are not far short of miraculous. It has been said before, but is worth saying again, that the success of the Forest is rooted in the integrity of the original, completely visionary Strategy, and the passion and commitment with which this has been signed-up to by our partners and supporters. I was delighted to hear this sentiment in the words of the Rural Affairs Minister, Lord Gardiner, as he launched our Tourism Growth Plan in
parliament, describing this work as an exemplar of sustainability ‘supporting clean growth through partnerships with businesses that value and contribute to the natural environment’. As the Minister noted, the National Forest is a great example of what the Government’s new 25 year Environment Plan aims to achieve. In fact, vision flows through everything we do and is reflected in this issue of Forest Scene, from the Growth Plan to the Festival, Charnwood Forest to Whistlewood Common. We know we have so much more to do as the story of the Forest continues, and that we can’t do it without your support. So please do sign up to follow our progress as we move Forest Scene online, and be part of the next stage of the growth of the National Forest. With your help we’ll continue to show the country as a whole the power of forests and trees to transform lives, the landscape and the economy. And there’ll be a lot more singing about it!
AWARD–WINNING GREENWOOD DAyS
Peter Wood (see above, seated) moved to the National Forest and set up the centre in 1998, seeing the potential of the young Forest for building his business. In his first year he ran a couple of courses teaching the ancient craft of pole lathe (greenwood) turning; 2018 sees the centre’s 20th anniversary, when nearly 40 courses will be offered in a range of different crafts from one day taster sessions in willow weaving or spoon carving to seven day intensive Windsor chair making courses.
attendees. Peter said: “It's really heartening to learn how much people enjoy coming out to the wood, having a good time and learning different skills.
Greenwood Days was nominated for the award by course
See the full range of courses at greenwooddays.co.uk
TEN yEARS OF THE NATIONAL FOREST ‘FREEWOODS SCHEME’:
Sir William Worsley, Chair, National Forest Company
Whistlewood Common is a fascinating example of how a community can come together to make social change happen. This thriving community woodland in Melbourne, South Derbyshire, runs as a social enterprise company. Following The new straw-bale, timber-framed roundhouse will be constructed the purchase of the original using timber from the National woodland site, made possible Forest and will be a venue for through a community share workshops, education, and events. scheme supported by the National Forest Company, they have recently secured £115,000 to carry out improvements to infrastructure, including the creation of a stunning new roundhouse. The funds were raised through a second community share offer, combined with match funding from the NFC and lottery-funded Power to Change. Anyone over 16 can become a Whistlewood shareholder, and support the organisation’s aims of helping people learn how to live more sustainably, showing how communities can respond to climate change, resource depletion and economic uncertainty. There are plenty of opportunities for local people to get involved. See more at whistlewoodcommon.org
Compared with the vastness of many of the new woods created across the National Forest, those planted under the Freewoods Scheme are no doubt at the smaller end of the spectrum. The Freewoods Scheme can fund the creation of woods from just 0.6 acre up to two and a half acres. However size is, of course, relative. Einstein would no doubt conclude that these are still all woods in their own right and contribute much to the Forest
The three-year project aims to establish a sustainable step change in outdoor learning: initially, every primary schoolchild in the National Forest will have the opportunity to experience regular outdoor learning sessions, in their own school grounds, or within walking distance of their school. To enable this to happen we have to understand what activity is currently taking place in our primary schools, and where the gaps are. Often a school may feel they do not have the expertise to deliver this kind of teaching – it can feel a little daunting at first to teach outside, beyond the classroom, but very soon the benefits are being felt from being under the open sky amongst the trees.
“I aim to make the centre a welcoming and inspiring place to learn from some of the best crafts people in the country and the National Forest itself is an integral part of what we offer. It’s now a great source of timber from hazel to young ash thinnings for Windsor chairs.”
Teachers are inspired by seeing the transformation that outdoor learning can bring about in young
If you own land in the National Forest and would like information on how to create your own small (but perfectly formed) wood for free then contact Simon Greenhouse at the NFC on 01283 551211 or by email sgreenhouse@nationalforest.org
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>> page 2
]
We have also made funding available to enhance school grounds as many schools do not have a suitable outdoor area. Our forestry team can advise schools on making the most of their grounds, and funds are also available to support nearby woodland owners who may be interested in inviting schools to use their woods. This is bold and visionary work. We want the National Forest to set the example for the rest of the country that outdoor learning and all the benefits it brings of boosting confidence, improving health and wellbeing, concentration and physical activity, is made available by right to all children.
Charnwood Forest is a surprising outpost of upland England in lowland Leicestershire. Having been created in a volcanic eruption 600 million years ago, Charnwood has developed rich layers of heritage. Its landscape is defined by granite-topped hills, wooded valleys, heathlands and grasslands. Its shaded lanes reveal Arts and Craft cottages, ancient monasteries and drystone walls. About two thirds of the ancient Charnwood Forest lies within the 200 square miles of the larger National Forest, and its unique landscape is a vital ingredient in the overall variety of the wider Forest. But although the magnificent landscape of Charnwood Forest lies on the doorstep of Leicester, Loughborough and Coalville, it is not as well known or understood as it should be. This puts it at risk: if people are not passionate about Charnwood, they will not understand its importance, and ultimately the things that make it so special risk being lost and forgotten. To address this, the Charnwood Forest Landscape Partnership Scheme aims to raise the profile of England’s unexpected uplands. John Everitt, Chief Executive, National Forest Company, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to develop the Charnwood landscape and we are grateful to the Heritage Lottery Fund and to all National Lottery players for making it possible. Charnwood is a key landscape within the wider National Forest: a unique upland landscape with ancient woodland and a rich history. We look forward to working with
This is a National Forest Scheme that provides free trees, fencing and labour for landowners wishing to plant in field corners, in an unused paddock or along the side of a public park. Schools, Parish Councils, smallholders, farmers and golf clubs have between them created 94 new ‘Freewoods’ since 2007, contributing over 135 acres (55 hectares) to woodland cover in the National Forest.
>>
people, but sometimes lack the expertise and confidence to run sessions themselves. We have established a grant process to fund training and to introduce them to skilled practitioners.
Feedback on Creating a Forest for Learning in the National Forest: “The boys loved this activity and it gave them a real sense of achievement.” “They are excited about coming to sessions, they work hard, create new ideas, are starting to be more positive towards others and are starting to achieve.” “Thank you to Caroline for all of her input – she has shared some good ideas with us and has been a great guide. It is much appreciated!” You can see more about the project on our website and watch a video filmed at our launch event. http://www.nationalforest.org /involved/education/learning.php Schools interested in finding out more can contact Caroline Scothern by emailing cscothern @nationalforest.org
A partnership set up to protect Charnwood Forest has been successful in its £2.75m grant bid for initial support by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).
Just as individual hedgerow trees can punctuate and add interest to an open landscape, small copses and coverts, shelterbelts and thickets can help to visually link the Forest landscape together creating a rich, cohesive tapestry of wooded habitats, pasture, hedgerows and farmland.
and create a green and living memory. See nationalforest.org/sponsor/legacy/
HICKS LODGE TRUST WINDS UP AFTER 12 yEARS SUPPORTING LOCAL COMMUNITy GROUPS
GOOD NEWS FOR CHARNWOOD
landscape. They are large enough to become a tranquil home for local wildlife and can act as ‘stepping stones’ for an array of creatures that would otherwise struggle to move across open areas from habitat to habitat.
Leave a legacy to the National Forest
CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE:
LEARNING UNDER THE OPEN SKY
Greenwood Days, a woodland craft teaching centre on the border of Derbyshire and Leicestershire in the heart of the National Forest, has been awarded ‘Best Woodland Courses’ by woodlands.co.uk
‘SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL’
WHISTLEWOOD
>>
[
all our partners to bring Charnwood’s stories to life and help the surrounding communities engage with this very special place. The Development Phase of the project kicks off in April 2018 and we will be recruiting two new team members to work on the project in the new year.” The National Forest Company led the bid on behalf of the Charnwood Forest Regional Park partnership, with financial support from Leicestershire County Council, Charnwood Borough Council, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council and North West Leicestershire District Council.
>>
CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE:
TIMBER
But from the late 1990s until the late 2000s, it was a surface coal mine.
Activities at the new festival will include:
Angela Chamberlain (pictured right) Chair of Hicks Lodge Trust and local resident, told Forest Scene more about the history of the site.
Provocation: Writers, artists, poets, scientists, philosophers and educators will help us reimagine what woodlands and trees mean to us. Expect a curated programme of talks and discussions exploring how we interact with nature and the environment.
She said: “To look at Hicks Lodge now, you would never believe what it used to look like: even before the recent working, it was derelict. We were surrounded by deep mines, and roads often thick with mud from clay and coal extraction. In 1986 AF Budge applied for further clay and coal extraction at Hicks Lodge, followed by waste tipping. This was a step too far."
Sound: An ambitious adventure into sound and music, rooted in the forest. Venture into the woods to be immersed in compelling sound installations, storytelling, soundscapes and choirs will bring the woods to life through song. Light: Torchlight processions, light projections, fire gardens, luminous installations, will help us see the forest in a new light.
Following a lengthy campaign that
spoke more about the Trust’s work. “Using the interest we were able to earn, the Trust has been able to grant-aid many local groups in our parishes. We helped Moira Youth Club, Oakthorpe Media Suite, Donisthorpe Orchard, HeadstArt group, Moira Replan Pottery Group, the Friends of Ashby Bath Grounds and Black to Green projects. We also funded a bench for our firefighters when we lost the fire station – the list is endless! “But it’s time now to wind up the Trust. Interest rates have influenced the decision, but also it is increasingly difficult to find
Feast: A joyous exploration of food and drink, from farmers’ market stalls to food trucks, foraging workshops to picnics and banquets, we’ll be contemplating and consuming some fantastic fodder. Time: Inspired by our very own National Forest Noon Columns created by international artist David Nash, we’ll explore the atmosphere in the woods at twilight, midnight dusk and dawn to delight in the rhythms of the day. We’ll be singing the dawn chorus, running through the gloaming, and revelling at midnight gigs.
Hicks Lodge natural play area, 2013
reached the national papers, the Ashby Woulds Forum was formed to address all potential problems with local mineral permissions. It was a first in the country, and became a model that was adopted elsewhere, showing how communities and developers could work together. There were compromises on both sides; the results are for everyone to judge.
Gather: We’ll come together to celebrate and carouse in a world of arts, crafts and enterprise rooted in the forest, creating a vibrant living landscape. Breathe: Relax and soak in the landscape all around, take time to revel in the beauty, solace and artistry of nature. Drink in the forest air from our eco-spa, revel in yoga practice and other relaxation activities, contemplate the seasons and enjoy the tranquillity of the environment.
In 2005, UK Coal applied to extend working. Their permission required, by condition, that they lodge £25,000 into a fund for the benefit of the communities affected. Hicks Lodge Trust was established, and having been Chair from the beginning, Angela
For more information and tickets visit timberfestival.org.uk
Final print version of Forest Scene In order to bring you more regular news about the Forest, we’re moving to a new online format for Forest Scene. If you would like to receive our new e-newsletter, please email us at forestscene@nationalforest.org giving your name and postcode, plus the identification number from your Forest Scene mailing if you have it. Thank you! We look forward to staying in touch.
>> page 3
Hicks Lodge is a welcoming woodland with miles of walking and cycle trails, a cycle hire centre and café, and is home to many species of wildlife and plants.
]
>> >> page 4
[
volunteers. I would like to thank all of our Trustees, and hope we have been able to make a difference, in our small way. “What I really love now is walking my dog Paco, and appreciating our wonderful birds. From having an open cast site close to my home, I now have a regular visiting kingfisher, and up to 150 fieldfare and redwing swing by as the cold weather draws in.”
Hicks Lodge open cast mine, late 1990s
BEES, BALLADS & TREE RABBITS Black to Green has been delivering exciting projects across the Heart of the Forest. Donisthorpe Primary School took part in ‘Singing Our Heritage’, delivered by Broadside Ballad singer Jennifer Reid, artist Dan Russell and linguist Natalie Braber. The children learnt about Pit Talk, the old colloquial language of the miners, and wrote songs about mining, brickmaking and the canals. As well as learning about wildlife species found in the Heart of the Forest, they designed their own totem animals and discovered the story of the mysterious tree rabbits. A film of the children’s work will be available to view on the Black to Green website shortly, and the Heart of the Forest Ballad Collective, who have also been working with Jennifer Reid, are creating a booklet of local songs and prints. Local families have been part of Miniature Worlds, a unique event held at Pick Triangle, Albert Village. The event focused in on the tiny wildlife species inhabiting the site from lichen to invertebrates. Families could join OPAL Community Scientist Jackie Adams on a bug safari, create a
match box nature collection with Leicestershire County Council Family Learning and take part in a special arts activity creating miniature clay sculptures inspired by plants and insects. The event took place as part of ‘Woods on your Doorstep’, a strand of Black to Green encouraging people to explore local woodlands they haven’t visited before. In the spring, Black to Green will be creating new wildlife habitats at Boothorpe, adjacent to the Timber festival site. They’ll be planting an orchard and sowing wildflowers with the help of local groups, and working with local beekeeper David McDowell, The Bee Farmer, to set up an apiary. These new bee hives will also feature at Timber, where festival attendees can try their hand at beekeeping. Black to Green is supported by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund to tell the story of the extraordinary landscape transformation that has taken place across the Heart of the Forest over the last 25 years.
Lino print by Becky Wood, member of the Heart of the Forest Ballad Collective
Angela concludes: “It is truly amazing to think of the changes this site has seen and I hope that all our visitors, and residents, appreciate and enjoy what we now have.”
Look out for #forestlife
Highlighting events, activities and experiences throughout the National Forest.
]
>>
Events
The National Forest Company Bath Yard, Moira, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 6BA T: 01283 551211 E: enquiries@nationalforest.org W: nationalforest.org
A gift for just £25 nationalforest.org/sponsor/plantatree/
DECEMBER 22 Festive Gourmet Night, Calke Abbey, 01332 695310 Until 24 Christmas trees on sale at Rosliston Forestry Centre, 01283 563484 26 – 5 Jan 12 Days of Christmas Memorial Talks at the National Memorial Arboretum, 01283 2451000
MARCH
13 – 7 May Lodge Hill Bluebells (Open Fri – Sun plus Bank Holiday Mon) 07534 163861
MAy 5 Plant Hunter’s Fair, 1620s House Donington le Heath, 01455 290429 Until 7 May Lodge Hill Bluebells 19 – 20 Moira Canal Festival, moiracanalfestival.co.uk 19 – 31 National Forest Walking Festival, 01283 222848
THE NATIONAL FOREST WALKING FESTIvAL RUNS FROM 19 – 31 MAy Choose from dozens of guided walks in and around the National Forest, graded from easy to strenuous. Walks vary from one to 15 miles. Find out more: thenationalforestwalkingfestival .org.uk
GREEN GROWTH IN THE NATIONAL FOREST
Tourism Growth Plan for the Forest targets 700 new jobs over next ten years
Ambitious plans to drive continued growth in the tourism sector of the National Forest were launched in parliament and at an outdoor event in the Forest in the autumn (see above). The Forest’s new Tourism Growth Plan builds on 25 years of successful partnership working, to strengthen and grow sustainable tourism in the Forest. The ambition is to increase visitor spending by at least 15% and create and sustain over 700 new jobs. This builds on our existing success: visitor numbers to the Forest have now topped 8 million, tourism spend has reached £395.2m, sustaining 4,849 FTE jobs. James Berresford, former CEO of VisitEngland and National Forest tourism champion, formally launched the ten-year Plan in a woodland tipi at a special launch event in the Forest. He said:
“The new Tourism Growth Plan expresses the National Forest’s aspirations to be at the cutting edge of innovation and sustainability in rural tourism. During my time working in the tourism sector I have seen the National Forest build a reputation for offering a range of attractions, activities and places to stay, as one of the UK’s most accessible woodland destinations. The next ten years will move the Forest from an emerging destination into an established one. This Plan is about the wise growth of tourism, and stimulating a cycle of investment to enable the Forest to thrive as a destination.” The Timber festival is the first expression of the Plan, bringing visitors and communities together for an awe-inspiring celebration of
Corporate day in the Forest
In the year that james Latham celebrates its 260th anniversary, the relationship between the company and the National Forest goes from strength to strength. 2017 has also seen the 10th anniversary of the partnership with the National Forest Company, and to mark the occasion James Latham staff and customers have been out and about in the Forest helping with management tasks and planting trees. James Latham has also committed to substantial support for Timber, the new festival in the Forest, not least the supply of the majority of timber that will be needed for the event. Forest Scene asked Chris Sutton, Managing Director of James Latham, to explain more about the unique relationship between his business and the National Forest.
[
plantatree to remember a loved one. Many people find comfort in planting a tree to remember and celebrate the life of a special person. See nationalforest.org/sponsor/plantatree
>> page 5
CS: Personally, I remember when it was coal mines and slag heaps in the 70s; everywhere was dark; a really grey area. Then the Forest made a total transformation, and brought a great uplift to local towns. It’s cleaner, there’s less heavy traffic. FS: Tell us a bit about the world of James Latham: CS: We are an importer and distributor of wood-based products, and insist our partners engage in replanting and sustainable forestry management. Wood is the planet’s best renewable resource, and is such a versatile material. It’s fantastic to see sustainable building materials using timber construction are in vogue with architects and designers, it has great performance qualities. As an industry, forestry has had a bad press but now the emphasis is on legal, sustainable timber. At James Latham we work to the highest certification standards, and I and my colleagues travel the world to visit our suppliers, making sure our requirements for the highest ethical standards are met. Working with the National Forest is a great way for us to underline our commitment to sustainable forestry in the UK. FS: What’s your favourite tree? CS: I’m an oak man, but the most beautiful trees I have ever seen were hundreds of silver birch in the snow on the shores of the thousand lakes in eastern Finland. It was breathtaking. You never get bored of seeing birch.
BRAND NEW FESTIVAL “TIMBER” LAUNCHES IN THE NATIONAL FOREST
iTree
BURTON’S URBAN FOREST As previously reported in Forest Scene, we have been working with partners to measure the condition of the urban forest in Burton upon Trent, the largest town in the Forest. An army of volunteers carried out an iTree Survey last summer, looking at 250 sample plots, and the data has now been brought together to give a picture of tree cover for the whole town. The headline results are that Burton has a population of around 100,000 trees. While this sounds impressive, this equates to a tree cover of 9.4%. This compares poorly with other towns and cities which have undertaken a similar study (London has a tree cover of 14% for example). The research has also shown that the variety of tree species is also not as broad as it could be and that the proportion of mature trees is low. More different types of trees give the urban forest resilience to pests and diseases while older trees provide proportionally greater benefits in terms of holding back storm water and removing air pollution due to their size. A management Plan has been published to address these issues and enhance Burton’s urban forest to maximise the
We’re delighted to announce our new festival, Timber, will take place next year, from 6 – 8 july.
benefits it provides. The first aim of the plan is obviously to plant more trees! Particularly in urban areas this must be the right tree in the right place: where they can grow to their full height without needing regular maintenance, and where they don’t conflict with underground utilities or overhang pavements. The first step has been to launch a free tree scheme, so successful in other Forest towns, in Burton. With the help of East Staffordshire Borough Council two free trees are available for Burton residents to collect from the Potting Shed at Stapenhill Cemetery. In addition, residents are being asked to nominate suitable planting sites. The suggested sites, whether they be in parks, roadside verges, housing estates or other open spaces will be assessed for their suitability with the best being planted with suitable tree species during the 2018-19 planting season.
Further information and a copy of the full report can be found at https://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/Burton-Tree -Project/Burton-Tree-Project.aspx or if you would like more information or to get involved in the project please contact dianne.hewgill@staffordshire.gov.uk
The Tourism Growth Plan and video are available on the National Forest website visitnationalforest.co.uk/tourismgrowthplan
]
>>
You can find the National Forest on Facebook, and we tweet @NatForestCo Follow Timber Festival on Facebook, and @timber_festival on Twitter
>> page 6
ForestScene WINTER 2017/18
Coalville
FS: How have you seen the area change as the Forest has developed?
ton at wor k
6 Using Plants to Read the Landscape, talk by Black to Green at YHA National Forest. Booking essential on 01283 551211
Leicester
Ashby de la Zouch
CS: We love our corporate days in the Forest: you can leave your phone, forget about work. You’re out in the fresh air, getting exercise and really aware of everything around you. Over the ten years we’ve really seen how things have grown, how the landscape has changed. As a company, and as individuals, we feel we’re putting something back in.
Chris Sut
FEBRUARy
the transformational impact of the National Forest. Other investment opportunities for green growth highlighted in the Plan include new Forest-related attractions, additional high-quality accommodation in a woodland setting, and events and activities that harness the appeal of the National Forest. The launch event was hosted by Field and Forest Weddings in Yoxall, Staffordshire, who work with Peak Tipis to provide a unique wedding celebration experience within the National Forest. Dave Garner, co-owner of Field and Forest Weddings, also opens the woodlands to the public each spring as Lodge Hill Bluebells. He is one of a number of businesses already working with the National Forest Company and supporting the Tourism Growth Plan. Dave said: “As a growing business in the National Forest, we are delighted to be working closely with the National Forest Company. We share completely the same values: we want do something positive for the community and the environment and by doing so we will build a successful business. We’ve planted trees through one of their schemes, we have an active woodland management plan and we welcome visitors to enjoy our woodlands each spring for the annual bluebell festival. More recently we have grown our business to make best use of our magnificent setting to offer stunning woodland weddings and outdoor events.”
Birmingham
Nottingham
Swadlincote
“PUTTING SOMETHING BACK” WITH jAMES LATHAM
Until 5 12 Days of Christmas Memorial Talks at the National Memorial Arboretum, 01283 2451000 12/13/14 Aladdin Panto at Conkers Discovery Centre, 01283 216633 17 Bread for Beginners, Calke Abbey, 01332 695310
APRIL
Burton upon Trent
Large print version available Tel: 01283 551211
jANUARy
6 Two Fields: Green to Black, talk by Black to Green at YHA National Forest. Booking essential on 01283 551211 31 Spotlight on Trees at The National Memorial Arboretum, 01283 245100
Derby
nationalforest.org
Photographs courtesy of Darren Cresswell, Chris Donohoe, Diana Jarvis, Jacqui Rock, Greenwood Days, James Latham, UK Coal, Wild Rumpus/Teneight.
It will be the only international forest festival in the UK. Festival goers will experience the transformative impact of forests with artists, musicians, scientists and thinkers from across the world. Come and explore what woodlands can mean to us and how we can re-imagine our relationship with our environment. We’re working with Wild Rumpus, award-winning producers of the Just So Festival, who will create with us a tree-themed wonderland at beautiful Feanedock, near Moira. The 70-acre site features hundred-year old woodland, open glades and young planting in copses and along the hillside.
Its location in the Heart of the Forest makes it perfect for telling the story of the Forest, highlighted by the Black to Green project, and how trees have created a new landscape, taking the area from coal pits to tree tops.
>>
John Everitt, Chief Executive, National Forest Company, said: “Timber is both a celebration and statement of intent: a celebration of how the National Forest has transformed 200 square miles of the English Midlands, and a statement of intent to create an international movement to champion forests. The festival will shine a spotlight on trees as a catalyst for change.” Sarah Bird and Rowan Hoban, Directors of Wild Rumpus, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with the National Forest Company to create Timber together. We can’t wait to welcome audiences to the first festival which will provide incredible experiences and, we hope, fast become a solid addition to the thriving UK festival scene.”
READ MORE ON PAGE 3
Early bird tickets are available now, and all Forest residents can purchase discounted tickets. For more information and tickets visit timberfestival.org.uk
LEARNING UNDER THE OPEN SKY “The Creating a Forest for Learning project is visionary and very much an exemplar for the rest of the UK…you are really listening to the needs of schools, providing practical help and funding that will have a long term impact.”
Sylva Foundation
Outdoor learning in the National Forest
plantatree
We reported in a recent Forest Scene that generous funding from the Audemars Piguet Foundation had enabled us to develop Creating a Forest for Learning, a ground-breaking project to fully embed outdoor learning in the education of every child in the Forest.
>>
READ MORE ON PAGE 3
The National Forest – transforming 200 square miles of central England
Events
The National Forest Company Bath Yard, Moira, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 6BA T: 01283 551211 E: enquiries@nationalforest.org W: nationalforest.org
A gift for just £25 nationalforest.org/sponsor/plantatree/
DECEMBER 22 Festive Gourmet Night, Calke Abbey, 01332 695310 Until 24 Christmas trees on sale at Rosliston Forestry Centre, 01283 563484 26 – 5 Jan 12 Days of Christmas Memorial Talks at the National Memorial Arboretum, 01283 2451000
MARCH
13 – 7 May Lodge Hill Bluebells (Open Fri – Sun plus Bank Holiday Mon) 07534 163861
MAy 5 Plant Hunter’s Fair, 1620s House Donington le Heath, 01455 290429 Until 7 May Lodge Hill Bluebells 19 – 20 Moira Canal Festival, moiracanalfestival.co.uk 19 – 31 National Forest Walking Festival, 01283 222848
THE NATIONAL FOREST WALKING FESTIvAL RUNS FROM 19 – 31 MAy Choose from dozens of guided walks in and around the National Forest, graded from easy to strenuous. Walks vary from one to 15 miles. Find out more: thenationalforestwalkingfestival .org.uk
GREEN GROWTH IN THE NATIONAL FOREST
Tourism Growth Plan for the Forest targets 700 new jobs over next ten years
Ambitious plans to drive continued growth in the tourism sector of the National Forest were launched in parliament and at an outdoor event in the Forest in the autumn (see above). The Forest’s new Tourism Growth Plan builds on 25 years of successful partnership working, to strengthen and grow sustainable tourism in the Forest. The ambition is to increase visitor spending by at least 15% and create and sustain over 700 new jobs. This builds on our existing success: visitor numbers to the Forest have now topped 8 million, tourism spend has reached £395.2m, sustaining 4,849 FTE jobs. James Berresford, former CEO of VisitEngland and National Forest tourism champion, formally launched the ten-year Plan in a woodland tipi at a special launch event in the Forest. He said:
“The new Tourism Growth Plan expresses the National Forest’s aspirations to be at the cutting edge of innovation and sustainability in rural tourism. During my time working in the tourism sector I have seen the National Forest build a reputation for offering a range of attractions, activities and places to stay, as one of the UK’s most accessible woodland destinations. The next ten years will move the Forest from an emerging destination into an established one. This Plan is about the wise growth of tourism, and stimulating a cycle of investment to enable the Forest to thrive as a destination.” The Timber festival is the first expression of the Plan, bringing visitors and communities together for an awe-inspiring celebration of
Corporate day in the Forest
In the year that james Latham celebrates its 260th anniversary, the relationship between the company and the National Forest goes from strength to strength. 2017 has also seen the 10th anniversary of the partnership with the National Forest Company, and to mark the occasion James Latham staff and customers have been out and about in the Forest helping with management tasks and planting trees. James Latham has also committed to substantial support for Timber, the new festival in the Forest, not least the supply of the majority of timber that will be needed for the event. Forest Scene asked Chris Sutton, Managing Director of James Latham, to explain more about the unique relationship between his business and the National Forest.
[
plantatree to remember a loved one. Many people find comfort in planting a tree to remember and celebrate the life of a special person. See nationalforest.org/sponsor/plantatree
>> page 5
CS: Personally, I remember when it was coal mines and slag heaps in the 70s; everywhere was dark; a really grey area. Then the Forest made a total transformation, and brought a great uplift to local towns. It’s cleaner, there’s less heavy traffic. FS: Tell us a bit about the world of James Latham: CS: We are an importer and distributor of wood-based products, and insist our partners engage in replanting and sustainable forestry management. Wood is the planet’s best renewable resource, and is such a versatile material. It’s fantastic to see sustainable building materials using timber construction are in vogue with architects and designers, it has great performance qualities. As an industry, forestry has had a bad press but now the emphasis is on legal, sustainable timber. At James Latham we work to the highest certification standards, and I and my colleagues travel the world to visit our suppliers, making sure our requirements for the highest ethical standards are met. Working with the National Forest is a great way for us to underline our commitment to sustainable forestry in the UK. FS: What’s your favourite tree? CS: I’m an oak man, but the most beautiful trees I have ever seen were hundreds of silver birch in the snow on the shores of the thousand lakes in eastern Finland. It was breathtaking. You never get bored of seeing birch.
BRAND NEW FESTIVAL “TIMBER” LAUNCHES IN THE NATIONAL FOREST
iTree
BURTON’S URBAN FOREST As previously reported in Forest Scene, we have been working with partners to measure the condition of the urban forest in Burton upon Trent, the largest town in the Forest. An army of volunteers carried out an iTree Survey last summer, looking at 250 sample plots, and the data has now been brought together to give a picture of tree cover for the whole town. The headline results are that Burton has a population of around 100,000 trees. While this sounds impressive, this equates to a tree cover of 9.4%. This compares poorly with other towns and cities which have undertaken a similar study (London has a tree cover of 14% for example). The research has also shown that the variety of tree species is also not as broad as it could be and that the proportion of mature trees is low. More different types of trees give the urban forest resilience to pests and diseases while older trees provide proportionally greater benefits in terms of holding back storm water and removing air pollution due to their size. A management Plan has been published to address these issues and enhance Burton’s urban forest to maximise the
We’re delighted to announce our new festival, Timber, will take place next year, from 6 – 8 july.
benefits it provides. The first aim of the plan is obviously to plant more trees! Particularly in urban areas this must be the right tree in the right place: where they can grow to their full height without needing regular maintenance, and where they don’t conflict with underground utilities or overhang pavements. The first step has been to launch a free tree scheme, so successful in other Forest towns, in Burton. With the help of East Staffordshire Borough Council two free trees are available for Burton residents to collect from the Potting Shed at Stapenhill Cemetery. In addition, residents are being asked to nominate suitable planting sites. The suggested sites, whether they be in parks, roadside verges, housing estates or other open spaces will be assessed for their suitability with the best being planted with suitable tree species during the 2018-19 planting season.
Further information and a copy of the full report can be found at https://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/Burton-Tree -Project/Burton-Tree-Project.aspx or if you would like more information or to get involved in the project please contact dianne.hewgill@staffordshire.gov.uk
The Tourism Growth Plan and video are available on the National Forest website visitnationalforest.co.uk/tourismgrowthplan
]
>>
You can find the National Forest on Facebook, and we tweet @NatForestCo Follow Timber Festival on Facebook, and @timber_festival on Twitter
>> page 6
ForestScene WINTER 2017/18
Coalville
FS: How have you seen the area change as the Forest has developed?
ton at wor k
6 Using Plants to Read the Landscape, talk by Black to Green at YHA National Forest. Booking essential on 01283 551211
Leicester
Ashby de la Zouch
CS: We love our corporate days in the Forest: you can leave your phone, forget about work. You’re out in the fresh air, getting exercise and really aware of everything around you. Over the ten years we’ve really seen how things have grown, how the landscape has changed. As a company, and as individuals, we feel we’re putting something back in.
Chris Sut
FEBRUARy
the transformational impact of the National Forest. Other investment opportunities for green growth highlighted in the Plan include new Forest-related attractions, additional high-quality accommodation in a woodland setting, and events and activities that harness the appeal of the National Forest. The launch event was hosted by Field and Forest Weddings in Yoxall, Staffordshire, who work with Peak Tipis to provide a unique wedding celebration experience within the National Forest. Dave Garner, co-owner of Field and Forest Weddings, also opens the woodlands to the public each spring as Lodge Hill Bluebells. He is one of a number of businesses already working with the National Forest Company and supporting the Tourism Growth Plan. Dave said: “As a growing business in the National Forest, we are delighted to be working closely with the National Forest Company. We share completely the same values: we want do something positive for the community and the environment and by doing so we will build a successful business. We’ve planted trees through one of their schemes, we have an active woodland management plan and we welcome visitors to enjoy our woodlands each spring for the annual bluebell festival. More recently we have grown our business to make best use of our magnificent setting to offer stunning woodland weddings and outdoor events.”
Birmingham
Nottingham
Swadlincote
“PUTTING SOMETHING BACK” WITH jAMES LATHAM
Until 5 12 Days of Christmas Memorial Talks at the National Memorial Arboretum, 01283 2451000 12/13/14 Aladdin Panto at Conkers Discovery Centre, 01283 216633 17 Bread for Beginners, Calke Abbey, 01332 695310
APRIL
Burton upon Trent
Large print version available Tel: 01283 551211
jANUARy
6 Two Fields: Green to Black, talk by Black to Green at YHA National Forest. Booking essential on 01283 551211 31 Spotlight on Trees at The National Memorial Arboretum, 01283 245100
Derby
nationalforest.org
Photographs courtesy of Darren Cresswell, Chris Donohoe, Diana Jarvis, Jacqui Rock, Greenwood Days, James Latham, UK Coal, Wild Rumpus/Teneight.
It will be the only international forest festival in the UK. Festival goers will experience the transformative impact of forests with artists, musicians, scientists and thinkers from across the world. Come and explore what woodlands can mean to us and how we can re-imagine our relationship with our environment. We’re working with Wild Rumpus, award-winning producers of the Just So Festival, who will create with us a tree-themed wonderland at beautiful Feanedock, near Moira. The 70-acre site features hundred-year old woodland, open glades and young planting in copses and along the hillside.
Its location in the Heart of the Forest makes it perfect for telling the story of the Forest, highlighted by the Black to Green project, and how trees have created a new landscape, taking the area from coal pits to tree tops.
>>
John Everitt, Chief Executive, National Forest Company, said: “Timber is both a celebration and statement of intent: a celebration of how the National Forest has transformed 200 square miles of the English Midlands, and a statement of intent to create an international movement to champion forests. The festival will shine a spotlight on trees as a catalyst for change.” Sarah Bird and Rowan Hoban, Directors of Wild Rumpus, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with the National Forest Company to create Timber together. We can’t wait to welcome audiences to the first festival which will provide incredible experiences and, we hope, fast become a solid addition to the thriving UK festival scene.”
READ MORE ON PAGE 3
Early bird tickets are available now, and all Forest residents can purchase discounted tickets. For more information and tickets visit timberfestival.org.uk
LEARNING UNDER THE OPEN SKY “The Creating a Forest for Learning project is visionary and very much an exemplar for the rest of the UK…you are really listening to the needs of schools, providing practical help and funding that will have a long term impact.”
Sylva Foundation
Outdoor learning in the National Forest
plantatree
We reported in a recent Forest Scene that generous funding from the Audemars Piguet Foundation had enabled us to develop Creating a Forest for Learning, a ground-breaking project to fully embed outdoor learning in the education of every child in the Forest.
>>
READ MORE ON PAGE 3
The National Forest – transforming 200 square miles of central England