Events
More trees planted
MAY
Nearly 100,000 trees were planted in The National Forest over the winter of 2013/14.
17-18 Moira Canal Festival 01530 515273 17-29 National Forest Walking Festival 01283 222848 17-31 Ashby Arts Festival 01530 411767 24-25 Food Gusto Food & Drink Festival, Ashby de la Zouch 01530 411337 24-26 The Bushcraft Show, Catton Hall 03334 567123 24-1 June Half Term Fun, CONKERS 01283 216633 29 The Tale of Jemima Puddleduck, Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483
Catton Hall was the largest of three substantial Changing Landscape Schemes created this planting season. As well as planting thousands of native trees, a number of ponds have been created or restored, and standing deadwood left in place, providing excellent habitat for insects and fungi.
‘Our Forest Futures’
JUNE
>> Story continues from front page
21 Heart of the Forest Festival, Measham 07443 651457 28 Armed Forces Day, National Memorial Arboretum 01283 792333 28-29 South Derbyshire Festival of Leisure 01283 222848
This month-long creative project began with a visit to CONKERS Discovery Centre where the young people learnt bushcraft skills, explored the exhibition hall and walked barefoot across timber, bark, coal, wood and clay. Their responses to these Forest experiences were the creative sparks for the songs and music they started to create. National Forest Community Liaison Officer, Sue Anderson, said: “This project was a wonderful opportunity to work with young people and encourage them to think about how living with The National Forest is likely to change their lives and choices as they grow up. “They saw the Forest through fresh eyes and spent time thinking about opportunities for enjoying the great outdoors, learning new skills and considering new futures – whether it be forestry and woodland work or hospitality and tourism. “Using music in this way is a wonderful way to discover and share what The National Forest is all about, inspiring a wider audience of other young people, and all the families and friends who enjoyed the final performance.”
JULY 4-6 National Forest Folk Festival, CONKERS 01676 540219 13 Ashby Show 01283 229225 18-19 Burton Jazz Festival 01283 532880 19 Wildlife Bioblitz Event, Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483 27-3 August Heather Scarecrow Festival heatherscarecrow@gmail.com
3 World War I Day, Moira Furnace 01283 224667 8-10 Strawberry Fields Festival, Cattows Farm www.strawberryfieldsfestival.co.uk 13 Family Bushcraft Evening, Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483
25 National Forest Wood Fair, Beacon Hill Country Park www.nationalforestwoodfair.co.uk 27 Junior Bushcraft Day, Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483
SEPTEMBER 6 Last Night of The Proms, Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483 6-27 Melbourne Festival of the Creative and Performing Arts 07765 819428
OCTOBER 4 Ride To The Wall, National Memorial Arboretum 01283 792333 10-1 Nov Screamfest, National Forest Adventure Farm 01283 533933
>> page 5
Derby Nottingham
Burton upon Trent Birmingham
>>
[
The activities include health walks, willow weaving, woodland management, moth trapping and bushcraft. Adults, children and families are all taking part. Caroline said: “The Black to Green project builds on feedback we have already received – people telling us that they are keen for more ways and opportunities to get involved in the Forest. We’re using this year to test out a range of activities and find out what interests people the most. We’ll then have ideas to
Coalville
how craft S Bush e 2 g a P
Tenth An niversa ry Page 3
Black To G Page reen 5
The National Forest Way is here!
Walkin g the W Page 6 ay
Young people from four schools in The National Forest worked and performed alongside professional musicians from regional orchestra Sinfonia Viva, to look at how living in The National Forest may shape their lives.
New woodland management grant supports work at Beacon Hill
If you would like to know more about Black to Green, email Caroline at blacktogreen@nationalforest.org
With over 70 walks to choose from, the Festival offers great ways to explore hidden parts of The National Forest. All walks are led by an experienced leader with local knowledge, so participants can find out what has shaped and influenced the landscape through which they are walking. The walks range from ‘easy’ to ‘strenuous’, in terms of terrain, length and the speed at which they might be walked. Most of the walks are free and do not need to be booked. See more at www.thenationalforestwalkingfestival.org.uk
]
You can now find The National Forest on Facebook, and we tweet @NatForestCo
>> page 6
The woodland at West Beacon Fields was planted in 2000. The trees had been growing for 14 years and the woodland was now in need of a variety of management works. The County Council submitted a grant application to cover the removal of 2.5 kilometres of redundant rabbit fencing, coppicing of hazel stools, formative pruning of oak and other important species to improve the shape and growth of the trees and thinning of ride edges to widen and increase light to the tracks, as well as improve views into the woodland.
More than 100 students from Woodstone Community, Whitwick St John the Baptist and All Saints primary schools, as well as Castle Rock High School, worked with renowned Viva composer Jack Ross and musicians from Viva and Leicester-Shire Schools Music Services (LSMS), to compose music and songs for ‘Our Forest Futures’.
The second site is the Native Tree Collection, which encompasses the 28 native trees of the British Isles as defined by the late Alan Mitchell (renowned botanist and tree expert). This was planted in
1995 and includes several areas of hazel coppice. After 19 years, 680 metres of redundant rabbit fencing have been removed over the winter, tree guards which had served their valuable purpose have been cleared away, and two areas of hazel coppice have been brought into productive rotation again. Nick Fell, Countryside Services Manager with Leicestershire County Council, said: “Without grant funding from the National Forest Company these works would not have progressed this year. As a result of the management, both sites, which attract over 100,000 visitors a year, have been significantly improved for visitors, wildlife and future timber value.” The grant scheme will be re-opening for landowners in The National Forest this summer (2014). For more information please contact Charles Robinson, Woodland Management Officer on 01283 551211 or email cerobinson@nationalforest.org
www.nationalforest.org
Photographs courtesy of Maureen Cooper, Ruth Hill, Jacqui Rock, Martin Vaughan, Beth Walsh, Sinfonia Viva, Strawberry Fields Festival, The Woodland Trust, Woodstone Community Primary School, 2020VISION/Fergus Gill/Ben Hall/Ross Hoddinott.
Our Forest Futures GROWING UP IN THE NATIONAL FOREST – WHAT CHANGES, CHOICES AND OPPORTUNITIES DOES IT OFFER?
LAUNCH DATE IS 17TH MAY, THE FIRST DAY OF THE NATIONAL FOREST WALKING FESTIVAL. FROM MID-MAY ONWARDS, THE NATIONAL FOREST WAY WILL BE OPEN FOR BUSINESS.
As part of a pilot scheme tested over the winter, 23 grants were offered to landowners across the Forest for them to carry out woodland management activity in their woodlands. Leicestershire County Council applied for funding to cover two sites at the popular Beacon Hill Country Park.
Enjoy the National Forest Walking Festival 17 – 29 May
develop through Black to Green in future years.”
Don’t forget to let us know if you would prefer to read Forest Scene online. Email forestscene@nationalforest.org Thank you!
Grow A Tree Page 3
The National Forest Company has launched an innovative programme to encourage effective woodland management throughout the 200 square miles of The National Forest. As well as providing help and advice, the programme includes a new grant scheme designed specifically to support woodland management activity.
Ash tree protector
Scroll through the trees
ForestScene Summer 2014
Ashby de la Zouch
Large print version available Tel: 01283 551211
“Walking the National Forest Way, you are constantly surprised by the variety of landscapes. It seems all England is here: coal and granite, heathland and hills, meadow and water – all framed by woodland.” Volunteer route tester. You can download route descriptions from the website (www.nationalforestway.co.uk) or pick up information at Ashby de la Zouch and Swadlincote Tourist Information Centres. Dip in for the day, walk for a weekend or cover the whole 75 miles in one go – it's up to you! Tweet us your pictures @NatForestCo #nationalforestway or share on Facebook The National Forest www.nationalforestway.co.uk
Black to Green The development year of The National Forest’s Black to Green project is well underway. Community Engagement Officer, Caroline Scothern, has devised a full programme of activities designed to involve people from the local communities in the heart of The National Forest with the woodlands where they live.
Leicester
Swadlincote
Leicestershire-based artist Maureen Cooper explores the idea of ‘protection’ in The National Forest. Using the material that safeguards newly planted trees, this piece stands in an ash grove as a totem, a reminder of the current vulnerability of trees against ash dieback.
AUGUST
15-17 Moira Furnace Folk Festival 01530 272305
The National Forest Company Bath Yard, Moira, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 6BA T: 01283 551211 E: enquiries@nationalforest.org W: www.nationalforest.org
>> Story continues on page 5
The new 75-mile long distance trail uses existing public rights of way to explore the highlights of The National Forest. Walk it east to west, or west to east, between the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire and Beacon Hill Country Park in Leicestershire, the Way takes you through rolling hills, ancient forest and plenty of new woodlands. You will see ‘King Coal’ country, walk beside water and meander through meadows. For an article in Walk magazine, Peter Wood of Greenwood Days said: “People will find it more than just a nice walk. Open your eyes, look for clues in the landform, and explore
the forest as a living, breathing thing.” The National Forest Company has created the National Forest Way in partnership with Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Staffordshire County Councils, with the generous support of Fisher German and the valuable contribution of local landowners.
Accessible for experienced and new walkers alike, the National Forest Way is accompanied by leaflets, online information and clear signage. With links into the main towns across The National Forest it will provide a new and easily reached outdoor challenge for all those who enjoy walking, exploring the countryside and discovering new places.
Springtime Volunteers from CHEP, a National Forest sponsor, planted hornbeam, walnut, and wild cherry this spring.
Find out more about the new trail at www.nationalforestway.co.uk
>> See more on page 6
The National Forest – transforming 200 square miles of central England
As you read this, spring will be well and truly underway and bluebell time, which I love, will be here. I hope you have a chance to enjoy some wonderful days outside. For us, the opening of the National Forest Way in May as part of the Walking Festival (see page 6) will be a really significant milestone in the coming of age of the Forest. Sadly, I can’t be at the opening but I’m hoping to walk the Way later in the year, accompanied by my border terrier, of whom you have heard before! The opening – a very special event for us - follows the pleasure and satisfaction of receiving a strong message of support from Government in the autumn, confirming that it will continue to back the creation and care of The National Forest through the next decade. As well as our core funding from Government we are very fortunate to have the support of businesses and individuals and this support base will only increase over the next ten years. Our renewed thanks to all our partners.
Help create The National Forest: grow a tree from seed
PHS DIRECT STAFF WERE OUT WITH THEIR SAWS AND HAMMERS BUILDING TREE CRATES TO PROTECT SEVERAL LARGE PARKLAND TREES, AS THEY PUT THE FINISHING TOUCHES TO CADBOROUGH HILL WOOD, AT OVERSEAL.
WRITING THIS AS THE BLUEBELLS ARE OUT, IT SEEMS A LITTLE PREMATURE TO BE TALKING ABOUT ACORNS, BUT DID YOU KNOW THE NATIONAL FOREST COMPANY RUNS A GROW A TREE FROM SEED SCHEME? YOU CAN GROW YOUR VERY OWN OAK TREE AND COME AND PLANT IT IN THE FOREST.
Over 150 employees, families, customers and suppliers from PHS Direct have been involved in events at the site over the last four years, planting young trees with enthusiasm, including oak, silver birch, wild cherry and small leaved lime, and some coniferous trees – Douglas Fir and Scots Pine – to add variety and timber-producing potential.
It’s easy! All you have to do is collect a few acorns in the autumn, plant them and watch them grow. The Grow a Tree from Seed leaflet (available on the National Forest Company website) gives you all the information you need on how to nurture and look after your young saplings for the first couple of years. When they are strong enough (usually after two years they will be able to survive in the wild, but still be small enough to transplant successfully) you will be invited to come along to a planting event in The National Forest to plant your tree(s). Remember to send us your contact details, using the Seedling Pledge document (also available online), so that we know where to send the invitation. Many people have already participated in the Grow a Tree from Seed scheme and have found the experience very rewarding and the planting events extremely enjoyable. It brings together families and people of all ages, who are interested in helping to grow The National Forest and look after the environment.
The new woodland is already a tranquil haven for visitors with spectacular views over the surrounding countryside.
Strawberry Fields forever
“
We were part of a large, loving family, having a lot of fun, helping to guarantee a future for generations to come.
“
THE FOREST’S NEXT DECADE – A SPRING IN OUR STEP
Protecting the trees
“
Catherine’s column
“
We enjoyed the planting event very much. We named all our seven trees after the Seven Dwarfs!
For more information visit www.nationalforest.org/ involved/seed.php or email acorns@nationalforest.org or tel: 01283 551211
This year sees the fifth Strawberry Fields Festival, held at Cattows Farm in Leicestershire. It takes its name from the farm’s 25year old ‘Pick Your Own’ soft fruit business and sets out its many stalls and stages one weekend each August, amongst the farm’s 100 acres of National Forest planting. In addition to well-known, established national and international acts, the festival features emerging and local talent. It aims to offer its audience a truly diverse musical experience: from folk to reggae, punk to hip hop – even radical poetry. As well as the music, festival-goers can enjoy a touch of retail therapy, experience live art installations from some of the UK’s best graffiti
artists, relax in the Healing zone and enjoy the rides in the Fun Fair. The Octopus’s Garden offers children’s sessions in Bollywood dancing, circus skills, street dance and storytelling - plus a giant sand pit. All proceeds from the ‘Kids for a Quid’ tickets will be donated by the Festival to the NSPCC. See more at: www.strawberryfieldsfestival.co.uk
Enjoy a walk: Now and Then AN EARTH MOVER WILL SOON BE ON SITE TO CREATE ‘NOW AND THEN’, A DEEP SPIRAL LAND FORM AT THE WOODLAND TRUST’S QUEEN ELIZABETH DIAMOND JUBILEE WOOD, NEAR NORMANTON LE HEATH IN THE NATIONAL FOREST. Landscape artist Rosie Leventon has been commissioned to produce a large-scale artwork for the new woodland, the flagship Woodland Trust site created to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
Archaeologists have discovered artefacts on the site showing continuous habitation from the very start of farming in Neolithic times through to RomanoBritish inhabitants in the 2nd century AD. Rosie’s design is inspired by a Bronze Age quern (a stone for grinding grain) that was found on the site. The structure will measure 36 metres across and will be four metres deep. Visitors will be able to walk down into the ‘bowl’ and it is hoped the productive native shrubs around the edge will provide extra food for the resident bird populations.
Skylark country The open ground beside the A38, where the mainline railway track runs, is a haven for birds. One of the surprises along the National Forest Way.
Our aim is to make the most of this green lung growing around us. You may be able to help with suggestions of facilities, information or activities which would make it even better for you. The team is always open to new ideas and now is the time to share them as we embark on the next ten years. If you’d rather focus on today, may it be one with woodland, sky and the great outdoors. Enjoy this edition of Forest Scene.
“Always a great day out, wouldn’t want to miss it.”
Catherine Graham-Harrison OBE, Chair, National Forest Company.
Tunnel Woods WALKERS, CYCLISTS AND HORSE RIDERS ALIKE HAVE BENEFITED FROM NEW AND IMPROVED TRAILS THROUGH TUNNEL WOODS, NEAR CHURCH GRESLEY. Thanks to Natural England’s Paths for Communities grant scheme and support from Lex Autolease, Tunnel Woods is now a gateway to the very heart of The National Forest. From here you can explore a wide area of linked woodlands and walk, cycle or ride off-road to Conkers Discovery Centre, YHA National Forest and Hicks Lodge, the National Forest Cycle Centre.
[
Bushcraft Show 24 – 26 May Catton Hall www.thebushcraftshow.co.uk
Visit the Bushcraft Show at Catton Hall and try your hand at woodland crafts, firelighting, shelter building, tracking, foraging, woodland games. See the amazing Massai Warrior Dance Troupe from the Rift Valley, Kenya, and learn some of the Massai ways.
plantatree to remember a loved one. Many people find comfort in planting a tree to remember and celebrate the life of a special person.
>> page 2
]
As well as a great story about the Forest, it uses a En nd stunning bestgla view’ss set of images by 2020VISION. If you are online, you can see the feature via the link on the National Forest home page www.nationalforest.org Wells city
“If you like trees, woodland and love gorgeous things made out of wood, this is the event for you.”
slug
guide
Discover cathedra one of Palace ls and England’s in this the moa great tiny Som ted Bish op’s erset city
The Na We see tiona l Fore with how thin the gs haven project to are progress st in the
Enjoy the finea scenic tou st view r of the s for every country wit month h Plus of the our guide Essentia year ahe to l Not tingham ad
Richard Ingram, Jaguar and The National Forest
National Forest Wood Fair: ten years old
Discover Britain featured The National Forest recently.
crea industriate a natu ing ral
l Mid lands The Vi vat Tru st
Intro Britain’s ducing the derelict charity historic turning into uniq build ue holid ings ay lets
Chris tmas wi Experien the Ki plingth Christma ce a trad ition s home s at Bateman al Edw of
ardi
author ’s, the an shire Rudyard former | Great Kipling British inventio ns | Joh n Wes discov ley’s erbritainmag House .com | Ash OCTOBER//NOV molean EMBER 2013 Broadw 123 ay
Since 2004, the National Forest Company has worked in partnership with Leicestershire County Council to create a brilliant day out for the whole family, and a chance for craftspeople and those who work in the timber and woodland industries, to show their wares and demonstrate their skills. This year’s event will be held on Bank Holiday Monday 25 August, 9 am – 6 pm. Come and enjoy the lumberjack displays, chainsaw carvers and wood turning races; relax with live music, local ales and locally-produced food. The children
>>
[
can paddle a coracle, harness up and tackle the climbing wall, make lotions and potions and get creative with eco art. Purchase your tickets in advance and save money. Buy online at www.nationalforestwoodfair.co.uk or from Ashby de la Zouch or Swadlincote Tourist Information Centres.
Enjoy a family day out for £20! Sponsored by
You can become a Friend of The National Forest. Help us look after the woodlands, improve access to the Forest and provide inspiring environmental education projects for young people.
>> page 3
Jaguar supported The National Forest in its early days and Jaguar Lount Wood is now thriving, including many walnut trees which are part of a national research project.
“Excellent fair, very well organised and a beautiful setting.”
]
Richard Ingram, who worked for Jaguar, was a driving force behind the company’s involvement in the Forest. Sadly he died in 2013 but he left a request for a further tree to be planted. Sophie Churchill, Chief Executive of the National Forest Company, met his family. She said: “The photo shows Judy, Christopher and Jonathan Ingram at Staunton Harold, with the maple tree Richard bequeathed. We are very grateful.” Les Ratcliffe, Head of Community Relations, Jaguar Land Rover, said: "Jaguar is pleased and proud to have had a colleague making such a contribution to The National Forest."
>> >> page 4
[
Catch up on the National Forest blog We call it ‘Woodland Edge’. The edge is one of the most interesting places in a woodland: “a dynamic habitat where wildlife, light, activity and diversity are the most prolific.” Read our posts about woodland management, wassailing, and a visit to the Minorca mine; read a ‘pooping blog’, read about halo thinning, or Calke’s Garden of the Imagination. Spend a few minutes at the Woodland Edge via the National Forest website: www.nationalforest.org/newsroom/
Leave a legacy to The National Forest and create a green and living memory. See www.nationalforest.org/sponsor/legacy/
]
As you read this, spring will be well and truly underway and bluebell time, which I love, will be here. I hope you have a chance to enjoy some wonderful days outside. For us, the opening of the National Forest Way in May as part of the Walking Festival (see page 6) will be a really significant milestone in the coming of age of the Forest. Sadly, I can’t be at the opening but I’m hoping to walk the Way later in the year, accompanied by my border terrier, of whom you have heard before! The opening – a very special event for us - follows the pleasure and satisfaction of receiving a strong message of support from Government in the autumn, confirming that it will continue to back the creation and care of The National Forest through the next decade. As well as our core funding from Government we are very fortunate to have the support of businesses and individuals and this support base will only increase over the next ten years. Our renewed thanks to all our partners.
Help create The National Forest: grow a tree from seed
PHS DIRECT STAFF WERE OUT WITH THEIR SAWS AND HAMMERS BUILDING TREE CRATES TO PROTECT SEVERAL LARGE PARKLAND TREES, AS THEY PUT THE FINISHING TOUCHES TO CADBOROUGH HILL WOOD, AT OVERSEAL.
WRITING THIS AS THE BLUEBELLS ARE OUT, IT SEEMS A LITTLE PREMATURE TO BE TALKING ABOUT ACORNS, BUT DID YOU KNOW THE NATIONAL FOREST COMPANY RUNS A GROW A TREE FROM SEED SCHEME? YOU CAN GROW YOUR VERY OWN OAK TREE AND COME AND PLANT IT IN THE FOREST.
Over 150 employees, families, customers and suppliers from PHS Direct have been involved in events at the site over the last four years, planting young trees with enthusiasm, including oak, silver birch, wild cherry and small leaved lime, and some coniferous trees – Douglas Fir and Scots Pine – to add variety and timber-producing potential.
It’s easy! All you have to do is collect a few acorns in the autumn, plant them and watch them grow. The Grow a Tree from Seed leaflet (available on the National Forest Company website) gives you all the information you need on how to nurture and look after your young saplings for the first couple of years. When they are strong enough (usually after two years they will be able to survive in the wild, but still be small enough to transplant successfully) you will be invited to come along to a planting event in The National Forest to plant your tree(s). Remember to send us your contact details, using the Seedling Pledge document (also available online), so that we know where to send the invitation. Many people have already participated in the Grow a Tree from Seed scheme and have found the experience very rewarding and the planting events extremely enjoyable. It brings together families and people of all ages, who are interested in helping to grow The National Forest and look after the environment.
The new woodland is already a tranquil haven for visitors with spectacular views over the surrounding countryside.
Strawberry Fields forever
“
We were part of a large, loving family, having a lot of fun, helping to guarantee a future for generations to come.
“
THE FOREST’S NEXT DECADE – A SPRING IN OUR STEP
Protecting the trees
“
Catherine’s column
“
We enjoyed the planting event very much. We named all our seven trees after the Seven Dwarfs!
For more information visit www.nationalforest.org/ involved/seed.php or email acorns@nationalforest.org or tel: 01283 551211
This year sees the fifth Strawberry Fields Festival, held at Cattows Farm in Leicestershire. It takes its name from the farm’s 25year old ‘Pick Your Own’ soft fruit business and sets out its many stalls and stages one weekend each August, amongst the farm’s 100 acres of National Forest planting. In addition to well-known, established national and international acts, the festival features emerging and local talent. It aims to offer its audience a truly diverse musical experience: from folk to reggae, punk to hip hop – even radical poetry. As well as the music, festival-goers can enjoy a touch of retail therapy, experience live art installations from some of the UK’s best graffiti
artists, relax in the Healing zone and enjoy the rides in the Fun Fair. The Octopus’s Garden offers children’s sessions in Bollywood dancing, circus skills, street dance and storytelling - plus a giant sand pit. All proceeds from the ‘Kids for a Quid’ tickets will be donated by the Festival to the NSPCC. See more at: www.strawberryfieldsfestival.co.uk
Enjoy a walk: Now and Then AN EARTH MOVER WILL SOON BE ON SITE TO CREATE ‘NOW AND THEN’, A DEEP SPIRAL LAND FORM AT THE WOODLAND TRUST’S QUEEN ELIZABETH DIAMOND JUBILEE WOOD, NEAR NORMANTON LE HEATH IN THE NATIONAL FOREST. Landscape artist Rosie Leventon has been commissioned to produce a large-scale artwork for the new woodland, the flagship Woodland Trust site created to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
Archaeologists have discovered artefacts on the site showing continuous habitation from the very start of farming in Neolithic times through to RomanoBritish inhabitants in the 2nd century AD. Rosie’s design is inspired by a Bronze Age quern (a stone for grinding grain) that was found on the site. The structure will measure 36 metres across and will be four metres deep. Visitors will be able to walk down into the ‘bowl’ and it is hoped the productive native shrubs around the edge will provide extra food for the resident bird populations.
Skylark country The open ground beside the A38, where the mainline railway track runs, is a haven for birds. One of the surprises along the National Forest Way.
Our aim is to make the most of this green lung growing around us. You may be able to help with suggestions of facilities, information or activities which would make it even better for you. The team is always open to new ideas and now is the time to share them as we embark on the next ten years. If you’d rather focus on today, may it be one with woodland, sky and the great outdoors. Enjoy this edition of Forest Scene.
“Always a great day out, wouldn’t want to miss it.”
Catherine Graham-Harrison OBE, Chair, National Forest Company.
Tunnel Woods WALKERS, CYCLISTS AND HORSE RIDERS ALIKE HAVE BENEFITED FROM NEW AND IMPROVED TRAILS THROUGH TUNNEL WOODS, NEAR CHURCH GRESLEY. Thanks to Natural England’s Paths for Communities grant scheme and support from Lex Autolease, Tunnel Woods is now a gateway to the very heart of The National Forest. From here you can explore a wide area of linked woodlands and walk, cycle or ride off-road to Conkers Discovery Centre, YHA National Forest and Hicks Lodge, the National Forest Cycle Centre.
[
Bushcraft Show 24 – 26 May Catton Hall www.thebushcraftshow.co.uk
Visit the Bushcraft Show at Catton Hall and try your hand at woodland crafts, firelighting, shelter building, tracking, foraging, woodland games. See the amazing Massai Warrior Dance Troupe from the Rift Valley, Kenya, and learn some of the Massai ways.
plantatree to remember a loved one. Many people find comfort in planting a tree to remember and celebrate the life of a special person.
>> page 2
]
As well as a great story about the Forest, it uses a En nd stunning bestgla view’ss set of images by 2020VISION. If you are online, you can see the feature via the link on the National Forest home page www.nationalforest.org Wells city
“If you like trees, woodland and love gorgeous things made out of wood, this is the event for you.”
slug
guide
Discover cathedra one of Palace ls and England’s in this the moa great tiny Som ted Bish op’s erset city
The Na We see tiona l Fore with how thin the gs haven project to are progress st in the
Enjoy the finea scenic tou st view r of the s for every country wit month h Plus of the our guide Essentia year ahe to l Not tingham ad
Richard Ingram, Jaguar and The National Forest
National Forest Wood Fair: ten years old
Discover Britain featured The National Forest recently.
crea industriate a natu ing ral
l Mid lands The Vi vat Tru st
Intro Britain’s ducing the derelict charity historic turning into uniq build ue holid ings ay lets
Chris tmas wi Experien the Ki plingth Christma ce a trad ition s home s at Bateman al Edw of
ardi
author ’s, the an shire Rudyard former | Great Kipling British inventio ns | Joh n Wes discov ley’s erbritainmag House .com | Ash OCTOBER//NOV molean EMBER 2013 Broadw 123 ay
Since 2004, the National Forest Company has worked in partnership with Leicestershire County Council to create a brilliant day out for the whole family, and a chance for craftspeople and those who work in the timber and woodland industries, to show their wares and demonstrate their skills. This year’s event will be held on Bank Holiday Monday 25 August, 9 am – 6 pm. Come and enjoy the lumberjack displays, chainsaw carvers and wood turning races; relax with live music, local ales and locally-produced food. The children
>>
[
can paddle a coracle, harness up and tackle the climbing wall, make lotions and potions and get creative with eco art. Purchase your tickets in advance and save money. Buy online at www.nationalforestwoodfair.co.uk or from Ashby de la Zouch or Swadlincote Tourist Information Centres.
Enjoy a family day out for £20! Sponsored by
You can become a Friend of The National Forest. Help us look after the woodlands, improve access to the Forest and provide inspiring environmental education projects for young people.
>> page 3
Jaguar supported The National Forest in its early days and Jaguar Lount Wood is now thriving, including many walnut trees which are part of a national research project.
“Excellent fair, very well organised and a beautiful setting.”
]
Richard Ingram, who worked for Jaguar, was a driving force behind the company’s involvement in the Forest. Sadly he died in 2013 but he left a request for a further tree to be planted. Sophie Churchill, Chief Executive of the National Forest Company, met his family. She said: “The photo shows Judy, Christopher and Jonathan Ingram at Staunton Harold, with the maple tree Richard bequeathed. We are very grateful.” Les Ratcliffe, Head of Community Relations, Jaguar Land Rover, said: "Jaguar is pleased and proud to have had a colleague making such a contribution to The National Forest."
>> >> page 4
[
Catch up on the National Forest blog We call it ‘Woodland Edge’. The edge is one of the most interesting places in a woodland: “a dynamic habitat where wildlife, light, activity and diversity are the most prolific.” Read our posts about woodland management, wassailing, and a visit to the Minorca mine; read a ‘pooping blog’, read about halo thinning, or Calke’s Garden of the Imagination. Spend a few minutes at the Woodland Edge via the National Forest website: www.nationalforest.org/newsroom/
Leave a legacy to The National Forest and create a green and living memory. See www.nationalforest.org/sponsor/legacy/
]
As you read this, spring will be well and truly underway and bluebell time, which I love, will be here. I hope you have a chance to enjoy some wonderful days outside. For us, the opening of the National Forest Way in May as part of the Walking Festival (see page 6) will be a really significant milestone in the coming of age of the Forest. Sadly, I can’t be at the opening but I’m hoping to walk the Way later in the year, accompanied by my border terrier, of whom you have heard before! The opening – a very special event for us - follows the pleasure and satisfaction of receiving a strong message of support from Government in the autumn, confirming that it will continue to back the creation and care of The National Forest through the next decade. As well as our core funding from Government we are very fortunate to have the support of businesses and individuals and this support base will only increase over the next ten years. Our renewed thanks to all our partners.
Help create The National Forest: grow a tree from seed
PHS DIRECT STAFF WERE OUT WITH THEIR SAWS AND HAMMERS BUILDING TREE CRATES TO PROTECT SEVERAL LARGE PARKLAND TREES, AS THEY PUT THE FINISHING TOUCHES TO CADBOROUGH HILL WOOD, AT OVERSEAL.
WRITING THIS AS THE BLUEBELLS ARE OUT, IT SEEMS A LITTLE PREMATURE TO BE TALKING ABOUT ACORNS, BUT DID YOU KNOW THE NATIONAL FOREST COMPANY RUNS A GROW A TREE FROM SEED SCHEME? YOU CAN GROW YOUR VERY OWN OAK TREE AND COME AND PLANT IT IN THE FOREST.
Over 150 employees, families, customers and suppliers from PHS Direct have been involved in events at the site over the last four years, planting young trees with enthusiasm, including oak, silver birch, wild cherry and small leaved lime, and some coniferous trees – Douglas Fir and Scots Pine – to add variety and timber-producing potential.
It’s easy! All you have to do is collect a few acorns in the autumn, plant them and watch them grow. The Grow a Tree from Seed leaflet (available on the National Forest Company website) gives you all the information you need on how to nurture and look after your young saplings for the first couple of years. When they are strong enough (usually after two years they will be able to survive in the wild, but still be small enough to transplant successfully) you will be invited to come along to a planting event in The National Forest to plant your tree(s). Remember to send us your contact details, using the Seedling Pledge document (also available online), so that we know where to send the invitation. Many people have already participated in the Grow a Tree from Seed scheme and have found the experience very rewarding and the planting events extremely enjoyable. It brings together families and people of all ages, who are interested in helping to grow The National Forest and look after the environment.
The new woodland is already a tranquil haven for visitors with spectacular views over the surrounding countryside.
Strawberry Fields forever
“
We were part of a large, loving family, having a lot of fun, helping to guarantee a future for generations to come.
“
THE FOREST’S NEXT DECADE – A SPRING IN OUR STEP
Protecting the trees
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Catherine’s column
“
We enjoyed the planting event very much. We named all our seven trees after the Seven Dwarfs!
For more information visit www.nationalforest.org/ involved/seed.php or email acorns@nationalforest.org or tel: 01283 551211
This year sees the fifth Strawberry Fields Festival, held at Cattows Farm in Leicestershire. It takes its name from the farm’s 25year old ‘Pick Your Own’ soft fruit business and sets out its many stalls and stages one weekend each August, amongst the farm’s 100 acres of National Forest planting. In addition to well-known, established national and international acts, the festival features emerging and local talent. It aims to offer its audience a truly diverse musical experience: from folk to reggae, punk to hip hop – even radical poetry. As well as the music, festival-goers can enjoy a touch of retail therapy, experience live art installations from some of the UK’s best graffiti
artists, relax in the Healing zone and enjoy the rides in the Fun Fair. The Octopus’s Garden offers children’s sessions in Bollywood dancing, circus skills, street dance and storytelling - plus a giant sand pit. All proceeds from the ‘Kids for a Quid’ tickets will be donated by the Festival to the NSPCC. See more at: www.strawberryfieldsfestival.co.uk
Enjoy a walk: Now and Then AN EARTH MOVER WILL SOON BE ON SITE TO CREATE ‘NOW AND THEN’, A DEEP SPIRAL LAND FORM AT THE WOODLAND TRUST’S QUEEN ELIZABETH DIAMOND JUBILEE WOOD, NEAR NORMANTON LE HEATH IN THE NATIONAL FOREST. Landscape artist Rosie Leventon has been commissioned to produce a large-scale artwork for the new woodland, the flagship Woodland Trust site created to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
Archaeologists have discovered artefacts on the site showing continuous habitation from the very start of farming in Neolithic times through to RomanoBritish inhabitants in the 2nd century AD. Rosie’s design is inspired by a Bronze Age quern (a stone for grinding grain) that was found on the site. The structure will measure 36 metres across and will be four metres deep. Visitors will be able to walk down into the ‘bowl’ and it is hoped the productive native shrubs around the edge will provide extra food for the resident bird populations.
Skylark country The open ground beside the A38, where the mainline railway track runs, is a haven for birds. One of the surprises along the National Forest Way.
Our aim is to make the most of this green lung growing around us. You may be able to help with suggestions of facilities, information or activities which would make it even better for you. The team is always open to new ideas and now is the time to share them as we embark on the next ten years. If you’d rather focus on today, may it be one with woodland, sky and the great outdoors. Enjoy this edition of Forest Scene.
“Always a great day out, wouldn’t want to miss it.”
Catherine Graham-Harrison OBE, Chair, National Forest Company.
Tunnel Woods WALKERS, CYCLISTS AND HORSE RIDERS ALIKE HAVE BENEFITED FROM NEW AND IMPROVED TRAILS THROUGH TUNNEL WOODS, NEAR CHURCH GRESLEY. Thanks to Natural England’s Paths for Communities grant scheme and support from Lex Autolease, Tunnel Woods is now a gateway to the very heart of The National Forest. From here you can explore a wide area of linked woodlands and walk, cycle or ride off-road to Conkers Discovery Centre, YHA National Forest and Hicks Lodge, the National Forest Cycle Centre.
[
Bushcraft Show 24 – 26 May Catton Hall www.thebushcraftshow.co.uk
Visit the Bushcraft Show at Catton Hall and try your hand at woodland crafts, firelighting, shelter building, tracking, foraging, woodland games. See the amazing Massai Warrior Dance Troupe from the Rift Valley, Kenya, and learn some of the Massai ways.
plantatree to remember a loved one. Many people find comfort in planting a tree to remember and celebrate the life of a special person.
>> page 2
]
As well as a great story about the Forest, it uses a En nd stunning bestgla view’ss set of images by 2020VISION. If you are online, you can see the feature via the link on the National Forest home page www.nationalforest.org Wells city
“If you like trees, woodland and love gorgeous things made out of wood, this is the event for you.”
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Since 2004, the National Forest Company has worked in partnership with Leicestershire County Council to create a brilliant day out for the whole family, and a chance for craftspeople and those who work in the timber and woodland industries, to show their wares and demonstrate their skills. This year’s event will be held on Bank Holiday Monday 25 August, 9 am – 6 pm. Come and enjoy the lumberjack displays, chainsaw carvers and wood turning races; relax with live music, local ales and locally-produced food. The children
>>
[
can paddle a coracle, harness up and tackle the climbing wall, make lotions and potions and get creative with eco art. Purchase your tickets in advance and save money. Buy online at www.nationalforestwoodfair.co.uk or from Ashby de la Zouch or Swadlincote Tourist Information Centres.
Enjoy a family day out for £20! Sponsored by
You can become a Friend of The National Forest. Help us look after the woodlands, improve access to the Forest and provide inspiring environmental education projects for young people.
>> page 3
Jaguar supported The National Forest in its early days and Jaguar Lount Wood is now thriving, including many walnut trees which are part of a national research project.
“Excellent fair, very well organised and a beautiful setting.”
]
Richard Ingram, who worked for Jaguar, was a driving force behind the company’s involvement in the Forest. Sadly he died in 2013 but he left a request for a further tree to be planted. Sophie Churchill, Chief Executive of the National Forest Company, met his family. She said: “The photo shows Judy, Christopher and Jonathan Ingram at Staunton Harold, with the maple tree Richard bequeathed. We are very grateful.” Les Ratcliffe, Head of Community Relations, Jaguar Land Rover, said: "Jaguar is pleased and proud to have had a colleague making such a contribution to The National Forest."
>> >> page 4
[
Catch up on the National Forest blog We call it ‘Woodland Edge’. The edge is one of the most interesting places in a woodland: “a dynamic habitat where wildlife, light, activity and diversity are the most prolific.” Read our posts about woodland management, wassailing, and a visit to the Minorca mine; read a ‘pooping blog’, read about halo thinning, or Calke’s Garden of the Imagination. Spend a few minutes at the Woodland Edge via the National Forest website: www.nationalforest.org/newsroom/
Leave a legacy to The National Forest and create a green and living memory. See www.nationalforest.org/sponsor/legacy/
]
Events
More trees planted
MAY
Nearly 100,000 trees were planted in The National Forest over the winter of 2013/14.
17-18 Moira Canal Festival 01530 515273 17-29 National Forest Walking Festival 01283 222848 17-31 Ashby Arts Festival 01530 411767 24-25 Food Gusto Food & Drink Festival, Ashby de la Zouch 01530 411337 24-26 The Bushcraft Show, Catton Hall 03334 567123 24-1 June Half Term Fun, CONKERS 01283 216633 29 The Tale of Jemima Puddleduck, Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483
Catton Hall was the largest of three substantial Changing Landscape Schemes created this planting season. As well as planting thousands of native trees, a number of ponds have been created or restored, and standing deadwood left in place, providing excellent habitat for insects and fungi.
‘Our Forest Futures’
JUNE
>> Story continues from front page
21 Heart of the Forest Festival, Measham 07443 651457 28 Armed Forces Day, National Memorial Arboretum 01283 792333 28-29 South Derbyshire Festival of Leisure 01283 222848
This month-long creative project began with a visit to CONKERS Discovery Centre where the young people learnt bushcraft skills, explored the exhibition hall and walked barefoot across timber, bark, coal, wood and clay. Their responses to these Forest experiences were the creative sparks for the songs and music they started to create. National Forest Community Liaison Officer, Sue Anderson, said: “This project was a wonderful opportunity to work with young people and encourage them to think about how living with The National Forest is likely to change their lives and choices as they grow up. “They saw the Forest through fresh eyes and spent time thinking about opportunities for enjoying the great outdoors, learning new skills and considering new futures – whether it be forestry and woodland work or hospitality and tourism. “Using music in this way is a wonderful way to discover and share what The National Forest is all about, inspiring a wider audience of other young people, and all the families and friends who enjoyed the final performance.”
JULY 4-6 National Forest Folk Festival, CONKERS 01676 540219 13 Ashby Show 01283 229225 18-19 Burton Jazz Festival 01283 532880 19 Wildlife Bioblitz Event, Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483 27-3 August Heather Scarecrow Festival heatherscarecrow@gmail.com
3 World War I Day, Moira Furnace 01283 224667 8-10 Strawberry Fields Festival, Cattows Farm www.strawberryfieldsfestival.co.uk 13 Family Bushcraft Evening, Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483
25 National Forest Wood Fair, Beacon Hill Country Park www.nationalforestwoodfair.co.uk 27 Junior Bushcraft Day, Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483
SEPTEMBER 6 Last Night of The Proms, Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483 6-27 Melbourne Festival of the Creative and Performing Arts 07765 819428
OCTOBER 4 Ride To The Wall, National Memorial Arboretum 01283 792333 10-1 Nov Screamfest, National Forest Adventure Farm 01283 533933
>> page 5
Derby Nottingham
Burton upon Trent Birmingham
>>
[
The activities include health walks, willow weaving, woodland management, moth trapping and bushcraft. Adults, children and families are all taking part. Caroline said: “The Black to Green project builds on feedback we have already received – people telling us that they are keen for more ways and opportunities to get involved in the Forest. We’re using this year to test out a range of activities and find out what interests people the most. We’ll then have ideas to
Coalville
how craft S Bush e 2 g a P
Tenth An niversa ry Page 3
Black To G Page reen 5
The National Forest Way is here!
Walkin g the W Page 6 ay
Young people from four schools in The National Forest worked and performed alongside professional musicians from regional orchestra Sinfonia Viva, to look at how living in The National Forest may shape their lives.
New woodland management grant supports work at Beacon Hill
If you would like to know more about Black to Green, email Caroline at blacktogreen@nationalforest.org
With over 70 walks to choose from, the Festival offers great ways to explore hidden parts of The National Forest. All walks are led by an experienced leader with local knowledge, so participants can find out what has shaped and influenced the landscape through which they are walking. The walks range from ‘easy’ to ‘strenuous’, in terms of terrain, length and the speed at which they might be walked. Most of the walks are free and do not need to be booked. See more at www.thenationalforestwalkingfestival.org.uk
]
You can now find The National Forest on Facebook, and we tweet @NatForestCo
>> page 6
The woodland at West Beacon Fields was planted in 2000. The trees had been growing for 14 years and the woodland was now in need of a variety of management works. The County Council submitted a grant application to cover the removal of 2.5 kilometres of redundant rabbit fencing, coppicing of hazel stools, formative pruning of oak and other important species to improve the shape and growth of the trees and thinning of ride edges to widen and increase light to the tracks, as well as improve views into the woodland.
More than 100 students from Woodstone Community, Whitwick St John the Baptist and All Saints primary schools, as well as Castle Rock High School, worked with renowned Viva composer Jack Ross and musicians from Viva and Leicester-Shire Schools Music Services (LSMS), to compose music and songs for ‘Our Forest Futures’.
The second site is the Native Tree Collection, which encompasses the 28 native trees of the British Isles as defined by the late Alan Mitchell (renowned botanist and tree expert). This was planted in
1995 and includes several areas of hazel coppice. After 19 years, 680 metres of redundant rabbit fencing have been removed over the winter, tree guards which had served their valuable purpose have been cleared away, and two areas of hazel coppice have been brought into productive rotation again. Nick Fell, Countryside Services Manager with Leicestershire County Council, said: “Without grant funding from the National Forest Company these works would not have progressed this year. As a result of the management, both sites, which attract over 100,000 visitors a year, have been significantly improved for visitors, wildlife and future timber value.” The grant scheme will be re-opening for landowners in The National Forest this summer (2014). For more information please contact Charles Robinson, Woodland Management Officer on 01283 551211 or email cerobinson@nationalforest.org
www.nationalforest.org
Photographs courtesy of Maureen Cooper, Ruth Hill, Jacqui Rock, Martin Vaughan, Beth Walsh, Sinfonia Viva, Strawberry Fields Festival, The Woodland Trust, Woodstone Community Primary School, 2020VISION/Fergus Gill/Ben Hall/Ross Hoddinott.
Our Forest Futures GROWING UP IN THE NATIONAL FOREST – WHAT CHANGES, CHOICES AND OPPORTUNITIES DOES IT OFFER?
LAUNCH DATE IS 17TH MAY, THE FIRST DAY OF THE NATIONAL FOREST WALKING FESTIVAL. FROM MID-MAY ONWARDS, THE NATIONAL FOREST WAY WILL BE OPEN FOR BUSINESS.
As part of a pilot scheme tested over the winter, 23 grants were offered to landowners across the Forest for them to carry out woodland management activity in their woodlands. Leicestershire County Council applied for funding to cover two sites at the popular Beacon Hill Country Park.
Enjoy the National Forest Walking Festival 17 – 29 May
develop through Black to Green in future years.”
Don’t forget to let us know if you would prefer to read Forest Scene online. Email forestscene@nationalforest.org Thank you!
Grow A Tree Page 3
The National Forest Company has launched an innovative programme to encourage effective woodland management throughout the 200 square miles of The National Forest. As well as providing help and advice, the programme includes a new grant scheme designed specifically to support woodland management activity.
Ash tree protector
Scroll through the trees
ForestScene Summer 2014
Ashby de la Zouch
Large print version available Tel: 01283 551211
“Walking the National Forest Way, you are constantly surprised by the variety of landscapes. It seems all England is here: coal and granite, heathland and hills, meadow and water – all framed by woodland.” Volunteer route tester. You can download route descriptions from the website (www.nationalforestway.co.uk) or pick up information at Ashby de la Zouch and Swadlincote Tourist Information Centres. Dip in for the day, walk for a weekend or cover the whole 75 miles in one go – it's up to you! Tweet us your pictures @NatForestCo #nationalforestway or share on Facebook The National Forest www.nationalforestway.co.uk
Black to Green The development year of The National Forest’s Black to Green project is well underway. Community Engagement Officer, Caroline Scothern, has devised a full programme of activities designed to involve people from the local communities in the heart of The National Forest with the woodlands where they live.
Leicester
Swadlincote
Leicestershire-based artist Maureen Cooper explores the idea of ‘protection’ in The National Forest. Using the material that safeguards newly planted trees, this piece stands in an ash grove as a totem, a reminder of the current vulnerability of trees against ash dieback.
AUGUST
15-17 Moira Furnace Folk Festival 01530 272305
The National Forest Company Bath Yard, Moira, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 6BA T: 01283 551211 E: enquiries@nationalforest.org W: www.nationalforest.org
>> Story continues on page 5
The new 75-mile long distance trail uses existing public rights of way to explore the highlights of The National Forest. Walk it east to west, or west to east, between the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire and Beacon Hill Country Park in Leicestershire, the Way takes you through rolling hills, ancient forest and plenty of new woodlands. You will see ‘King Coal’ country, walk beside water and meander through meadows. For an article in Walk magazine, Peter Wood of Greenwood Days said: “People will find it more than just a nice walk. Open your eyes, look for clues in the landform, and explore
the forest as a living, breathing thing.” The National Forest Company has created the National Forest Way in partnership with Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Staffordshire County Councils, with the generous support of Fisher German and the valuable contribution of local landowners.
Accessible for experienced and new walkers alike, the National Forest Way is accompanied by leaflets, online information and clear signage. With links into the main towns across The National Forest it will provide a new and easily reached outdoor challenge for all those who enjoy walking, exploring the countryside and discovering new places.
Springtime Volunteers from CHEP, a National Forest sponsor, planted hornbeam, walnut, and wild cherry this spring.
Find out more about the new trail at www.nationalforestway.co.uk
>> See more on page 6
The National Forest – transforming 200 square miles of central England
Events
More trees planted
MAY
Nearly 100,000 trees were planted in The National Forest over the winter of 2013/14.
17-18 Moira Canal Festival 01530 515273 17-29 National Forest Walking Festival 01283 222848 17-31 Ashby Arts Festival 01530 411767 24-25 Food Gusto Food & Drink Festival, Ashby de la Zouch 01530 411337 24-26 The Bushcraft Show, Catton Hall 03334 567123 24-1 June Half Term Fun, CONKERS 01283 216633 29 The Tale of Jemima Puddleduck, Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483
Catton Hall was the largest of three substantial Changing Landscape Schemes created this planting season. As well as planting thousands of native trees, a number of ponds have been created or restored, and standing deadwood left in place, providing excellent habitat for insects and fungi.
‘Our Forest Futures’
JUNE
>> Story continues from front page
21 Heart of the Forest Festival, Measham 07443 651457 28 Armed Forces Day, National Memorial Arboretum 01283 792333 28-29 South Derbyshire Festival of Leisure 01283 222848
This month-long creative project began with a visit to CONKERS Discovery Centre where the young people learnt bushcraft skills, explored the exhibition hall and walked barefoot across timber, bark, coal, wood and clay. Their responses to these Forest experiences were the creative sparks for the songs and music they started to create. National Forest Community Liaison Officer, Sue Anderson, said: “This project was a wonderful opportunity to work with young people and encourage them to think about how living with The National Forest is likely to change their lives and choices as they grow up. “They saw the Forest through fresh eyes and spent time thinking about opportunities for enjoying the great outdoors, learning new skills and considering new futures – whether it be forestry and woodland work or hospitality and tourism. “Using music in this way is a wonderful way to discover and share what The National Forest is all about, inspiring a wider audience of other young people, and all the families and friends who enjoyed the final performance.”
JULY 4-6 National Forest Folk Festival, CONKERS 01676 540219 13 Ashby Show 01283 229225 18-19 Burton Jazz Festival 01283 532880 19 Wildlife Bioblitz Event, Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483 27-3 August Heather Scarecrow Festival heatherscarecrow@gmail.com
3 World War I Day, Moira Furnace 01283 224667 8-10 Strawberry Fields Festival, Cattows Farm www.strawberryfieldsfestival.co.uk 13 Family Bushcraft Evening, Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483
25 National Forest Wood Fair, Beacon Hill Country Park www.nationalforestwoodfair.co.uk 27 Junior Bushcraft Day, Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483
SEPTEMBER 6 Last Night of The Proms, Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483 6-27 Melbourne Festival of the Creative and Performing Arts 07765 819428
OCTOBER 4 Ride To The Wall, National Memorial Arboretum 01283 792333 10-1 Nov Screamfest, National Forest Adventure Farm 01283 533933
>> page 5
Derby Nottingham
Burton upon Trent Birmingham
>>
[
The activities include health walks, willow weaving, woodland management, moth trapping and bushcraft. Adults, children and families are all taking part. Caroline said: “The Black to Green project builds on feedback we have already received – people telling us that they are keen for more ways and opportunities to get involved in the Forest. We’re using this year to test out a range of activities and find out what interests people the most. We’ll then have ideas to
Coalville
how craft S Bush e 2 g a P
Tenth An niversa ry Page 3
Black To G Page reen 5
The National Forest Way is here!
Walkin g the W Page 6 ay
Young people from four schools in The National Forest worked and performed alongside professional musicians from regional orchestra Sinfonia Viva, to look at how living in The National Forest may shape their lives.
New woodland management grant supports work at Beacon Hill
If you would like to know more about Black to Green, email Caroline at blacktogreen@nationalforest.org
With over 70 walks to choose from, the Festival offers great ways to explore hidden parts of The National Forest. All walks are led by an experienced leader with local knowledge, so participants can find out what has shaped and influenced the landscape through which they are walking. The walks range from ‘easy’ to ‘strenuous’, in terms of terrain, length and the speed at which they might be walked. Most of the walks are free and do not need to be booked. See more at www.thenationalforestwalkingfestival.org.uk
]
You can now find The National Forest on Facebook, and we tweet @NatForestCo
>> page 6
The woodland at West Beacon Fields was planted in 2000. The trees had been growing for 14 years and the woodland was now in need of a variety of management works. The County Council submitted a grant application to cover the removal of 2.5 kilometres of redundant rabbit fencing, coppicing of hazel stools, formative pruning of oak and other important species to improve the shape and growth of the trees and thinning of ride edges to widen and increase light to the tracks, as well as improve views into the woodland.
More than 100 students from Woodstone Community, Whitwick St John the Baptist and All Saints primary schools, as well as Castle Rock High School, worked with renowned Viva composer Jack Ross and musicians from Viva and Leicester-Shire Schools Music Services (LSMS), to compose music and songs for ‘Our Forest Futures’.
The second site is the Native Tree Collection, which encompasses the 28 native trees of the British Isles as defined by the late Alan Mitchell (renowned botanist and tree expert). This was planted in
1995 and includes several areas of hazel coppice. After 19 years, 680 metres of redundant rabbit fencing have been removed over the winter, tree guards which had served their valuable purpose have been cleared away, and two areas of hazel coppice have been brought into productive rotation again. Nick Fell, Countryside Services Manager with Leicestershire County Council, said: “Without grant funding from the National Forest Company these works would not have progressed this year. As a result of the management, both sites, which attract over 100,000 visitors a year, have been significantly improved for visitors, wildlife and future timber value.” The grant scheme will be re-opening for landowners in The National Forest this summer (2014). For more information please contact Charles Robinson, Woodland Management Officer on 01283 551211 or email cerobinson@nationalforest.org
www.nationalforest.org
Photographs courtesy of Maureen Cooper, Ruth Hill, Jacqui Rock, Martin Vaughan, Beth Walsh, Sinfonia Viva, Strawberry Fields Festival, The Woodland Trust, Woodstone Community Primary School, 2020VISION/Fergus Gill/Ben Hall/Ross Hoddinott.
Our Forest Futures GROWING UP IN THE NATIONAL FOREST – WHAT CHANGES, CHOICES AND OPPORTUNITIES DOES IT OFFER?
LAUNCH DATE IS 17TH MAY, THE FIRST DAY OF THE NATIONAL FOREST WALKING FESTIVAL. FROM MID-MAY ONWARDS, THE NATIONAL FOREST WAY WILL BE OPEN FOR BUSINESS.
As part of a pilot scheme tested over the winter, 23 grants were offered to landowners across the Forest for them to carry out woodland management activity in their woodlands. Leicestershire County Council applied for funding to cover two sites at the popular Beacon Hill Country Park.
Enjoy the National Forest Walking Festival 17 – 29 May
develop through Black to Green in future years.”
Don’t forget to let us know if you would prefer to read Forest Scene online. Email forestscene@nationalforest.org Thank you!
Grow A Tree Page 3
The National Forest Company has launched an innovative programme to encourage effective woodland management throughout the 200 square miles of The National Forest. As well as providing help and advice, the programme includes a new grant scheme designed specifically to support woodland management activity.
Ash tree protector
Scroll through the trees
ForestScene Summer 2014
Ashby de la Zouch
Large print version available Tel: 01283 551211
“Walking the National Forest Way, you are constantly surprised by the variety of landscapes. It seems all England is here: coal and granite, heathland and hills, meadow and water – all framed by woodland.” Volunteer route tester. You can download route descriptions from the website (www.nationalforestway.co.uk) or pick up information at Ashby de la Zouch and Swadlincote Tourist Information Centres. Dip in for the day, walk for a weekend or cover the whole 75 miles in one go – it's up to you! Tweet us your pictures @NatForestCo #nationalforestway or share on Facebook The National Forest www.nationalforestway.co.uk
Black to Green The development year of The National Forest’s Black to Green project is well underway. Community Engagement Officer, Caroline Scothern, has devised a full programme of activities designed to involve people from the local communities in the heart of The National Forest with the woodlands where they live.
Leicester
Swadlincote
Leicestershire-based artist Maureen Cooper explores the idea of ‘protection’ in The National Forest. Using the material that safeguards newly planted trees, this piece stands in an ash grove as a totem, a reminder of the current vulnerability of trees against ash dieback.
AUGUST
15-17 Moira Furnace Folk Festival 01530 272305
The National Forest Company Bath Yard, Moira, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 6BA T: 01283 551211 E: enquiries@nationalforest.org W: www.nationalforest.org
>> Story continues on page 5
The new 75-mile long distance trail uses existing public rights of way to explore the highlights of The National Forest. Walk it east to west, or west to east, between the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire and Beacon Hill Country Park in Leicestershire, the Way takes you through rolling hills, ancient forest and plenty of new woodlands. You will see ‘King Coal’ country, walk beside water and meander through meadows. For an article in Walk magazine, Peter Wood of Greenwood Days said: “People will find it more than just a nice walk. Open your eyes, look for clues in the landform, and explore
the forest as a living, breathing thing.” The National Forest Company has created the National Forest Way in partnership with Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Staffordshire County Councils, with the generous support of Fisher German and the valuable contribution of local landowners.
Accessible for experienced and new walkers alike, the National Forest Way is accompanied by leaflets, online information and clear signage. With links into the main towns across The National Forest it will provide a new and easily reached outdoor challenge for all those who enjoy walking, exploring the countryside and discovering new places.
Springtime Volunteers from CHEP, a National Forest sponsor, planted hornbeam, walnut, and wild cherry this spring.
Find out more about the new trail at www.nationalforestway.co.uk
>> See more on page 6
The National Forest – transforming 200 square miles of central England