Events
The National Forest Company Bath Yard, Moira, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 6BA T: 01283 551211 E: enquiries@nationalforest.org W: www.nationalforest.org
Until 31 Dec Eating In: cooking and eating at home. Exhibition at Snibston Discovery Museum 01530 278444
29-24 Dec Various dates Conkers Winter Wonderland 01283 216633 DECEMBER 6-7 Stories with Santa National Memorial Arboretum 01283 563483 6-7 Christmas Craft Show Calke Abbey 01332 863822 6-7 Christmas Gift and Food Fair National Memorial Arboretum 01283 563483 6-21 Weekends only Lights and Labyrinths at Calke Abbey 01332 863822 7 Christmas with Mummers and Carols at Donington le Heath Manor House 01530 831259
We are very excited that this winter we will welcome the 10,000th person to take part in one of our Plant a Tree events. Plant a tree is one of the ways individuals help us create The National Forest. The scheme has been running for over ten years and we have had the pleasure of meeting wonderful people from all over the country – if not the world – and of hearing many moving and inspiring stories about why people want to plant a tree. We have captured something of what it’s like to plant a tree with us in a short film you can watch on our website: www.nationalforest.org/ sponsor/plantatree
As well as planting the tree, the event is often a great opportunity to get together with family and friends. Here’s what some people have said about the experience: “It was very special to actually plant the trees, a chance for a wonderful day together.” “We planted a tree for German friends celebrating their Golden Wedding, as it was difficult to post a suitable gift. They were so touched with the idea, they phoned us with grateful thanks. No-one had ever done that for them. Of course we planted an English Oak!”
Plant a Tree is a perfect present for anyone who loves trees and wildlife. It makes a great Christmas gift (you know, those people who are impossible to buy for?) and for birthdays, weddings and anniversaries at any time of the year. You can buy Plant a Tree online, with a personalised certificate to download and print, making it a perfect last minute gift – even on Christmas Day.
Coalville
“An exhilarating experience, to think my tree will be part of a forest of the future.”
Each tree costs £25 which reflects the true cost of creating and developing the new woodland, including future care and maintenance of the site. Buy your gift at www.nationalforest.org/ sponsor/plantatree
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Thirteen light standard trees were planted in small groups in the extensive parkland area, strategically positioned to give a random appearance! In addition to native oak and lime trees, more ornamental species and varieties were chosen for their form and colour to create an attractive parkland habitat, with each tree protected by a traditional post and rail tree crate. A hay crop was again taken off the site this summer and options are being considered about how the parkland can best be managed in the future. Grazing by rare-breed cattle could be an option for example. The site has been created with generous financial support from Reabrook Limited, as well as the enthusiasm and hard work of their staff volunteers. Thank you.
18 & 22 Ranger-led Tree Ramble Calke Abbey 01332 863822
THE GOOD LIFE – planting in the spring at Nanpantan with Holland & Barrett.
MAY 16-17 Moira Canal Festival 07966 428127
>>
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National Forest sponsor Dean & Smedley Family Pharmacies raised £1,200 with a successful Fun Run held at Rosliston Forestry Centre earlier this year. Nearly one hundred people signed up for either the four-mile Fun Run or the gentle one mile woodland walk. The money raised will help the South Derbyshire Environmental
Simon is already getting busy with The National Forest’s Changing Landscapes, Parklands and Freewoods schemes and reminds all landowners within the 200 square miles of the forest that if they are interested in considering woodland creation or management, the NFC has a range of grant schemes to suit their needs.
Letterbox or Inbox? Don’t forget to let us know if you would prefer to read Forest Scene online. Email forestscene@nationalforest.org Thank you!
]
On The National Forest’s ‘Woodland Edge’ blog, you can read Audrey Vaughan’s story about how she came to be a volunteer in The National Forest. Audrey helps look after Hicks Lodge, the National Forest Cycle Centre. Her early love of cycling had been rekindled when a friend took her to try out the new cycle trails there. When the Forestry Commission opened the café, she had found her perfect place: cake and cycling!
Education Project based at Rosliston provide tools and staffing for family and community events like ‘Drop in Gardening’ and ‘Wildlife Watch’. Lucy Dean (second from right) said: “We are so thrilled with this result! The day itself went fantastically well, and we owe our thanks to everyone who worked
You can now find The National Forest on Facebook, and we tweet @NatForestCo
>> page 6
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National Forest Company reaches twenty... As we enter a new decade for the forest, the National Forest Company will be celebrating ‘20’ in a big way:
l 2015 is the company’s 20th anniversary
She has learnt about tree pruning and management, planted trees and cleared away old tree guards, and discovered a world of wildlife she would never have known existed. “We have fun, we learn a lot – it’s all about discovery!” With her previous art and design skills she even designed the group’s new logo. Read more about Audrey’s story and about volunteering in The National Forest on the National Forest blog ‘Woodland Edge’ www.nationalforest.org/ newsroom
FUN RUN RAISES £1,200 for environmental education
He said: “I’m really excited about coming to work in The National Forest which as England’s leading sustainable woodland project has seen woodland cover rise from six to almost 20%. I look forward to working with colleagues to see this rise further and see woods created earlier come into active management.”
JANUARY
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Coming of age
The National Forest is about people and nature, and the most important word here is ‘and’
Audrey says she is not a natural volunteer, but loves what has been created at Hicks Lodge so much that she was interested to find out more about how she could help look after the site.
Boothorpe woodland, a mile to the north of the village of Moira and two miles to the south of Swadlincote, nestles on both sides of a beautiful valley with a number of knolls, ridges and folds, which typically characterise the attractive, rolling landscape of the Ashby Woulds. Tree planting is now complete, with oak, lime, field maple, birch and wild cherry flourishing as well as woody shrubs like hazel, holly, guelder rose and hawthorn.
Simon has a broad range of forestry experience and has held several posts with the Forestry Commission, some working on partnership projects with The National Forest.
I was somewhere I’d never been before. I thought: I’m getting wet, I’m getting cold – I’m enjoying myself!
Spotlight on a growing woodland – Boothorpe
The National Forest Company welcomes Simon West as its new Head of Forestry.
21 Christmas Fine Food Fair Calke Abbey 01332 863822
>> page 5
“We didn’t want a traditional wedding list as we felt we had already got all the possessions two people could possibly need and lived in a very small flat at the time. We also wanted at least part of the wedding to be carbon neutral. We felt by asking people to contribute to planting trees we could create a bit more of a lasting reminder of our wedding and also one that we and others could visit. We chose The National Forest as it was somewhere that had a connection to both our families.”
New face at the forest
20 Candle-lit Carols National Memorial Arboretum 01283 563483
16-28 National Forest Walking Festival 01283 563483
Ashby de la Zouch
tree planters
13-14 Christmas trees on sale and Farmers Market (14th only) at Sence Valley Forest Park 01889 586593
19 & 28 Hidden Garden & Waking the House Calke Abbey 01332 863822
Swadlincote
10,000
plantatree
16 National Forest Food & Drink Fair Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483
Leicester
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6 ‘Give to Gain’ Environmental Volunteering ‘matchmaking’ event at Repton Village Hall for businesses and communities 01283 535039
Birmingham
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NOVEMBER
Burton upon Trent
Large print version available Tel: 01283 551211
Until 1 May 2015 Battledress: the impact of the First World War on women’s fashion. Exhibition at Snibston Discovery Museum 01530 278444
ForestScene WINTER 2014
Derby Nottingham
really hard to bring in this generous amount of sponsorship. It was great to work with such a dedicated group of people as the Environmental Education Team at Rosliston Forestry Centre, and we hope that the money raised by the participants and their supporters will go a long way in helping the team’s valuable work.”
www.nationalforest.org
Photographs courtesy of APF, Christopher Beech, Darren Cresswell, The Claymills Pumping Engines Trust, Jacqui Rock, Beth Walsh, Peter Wood.
l 2015 will also be the year we reach 20% forest cover throughout the 200 square miles of the forest. This reflects the substantial commitment of our partners, large and small, to help us realise the original vision of the forest, from the mere 6% when we started out. The average forest cover throughout the UK is 13% – and we still have many more trees to plant!
The new strategy for the ‘coming of age’ decade of The National Forest (20142024) was launched in the summer at an event held in the stunning setting of the Riding School at the National Trust’s Calke Abbey. “After nearly twenty years of investment and growth on the ground, The National Forest is here to stay,” said Catherine Graham-Harrison, Chair of the National Forest Company (NFC). “It is visible in the landscape and valued by a very wide range of people and organisations.” Over one hundred guests enjoyed a presentation that included three young students from Ibstock Community College talking about their experience of growing up in The National Forest, and an interview with National Forest Ambassador
Adrian Phillips, one of the early visionaries for the inception of the forest in 1987. He said: “Three things account for the success of The National Forest. Firstly, it is a national exemplar – other areas can learn from your experience; secondly, you have a bold vision and you stick to it; thirdly, it is about people and nature – and the most important word here is ‘and’.” The students spoke of the importance of the natural environment around where they live: playing wide games in the forest, and being able to explore miles away from their homes because they “know all the paths – we’ve grown up with them”. They spoke of encounters with wildlife and the importance of time out in the woods with their dad or grandfather, and the friendliness of the local
community if you were lost. They said that not losing views of the forest was very important to them and they challenged planners and developers to take this into account into the future. Sophie Churchill, Chief Executive for the NFC, introduced the new strategy. She said: “Our new strategy highlights the opportunities for the forest as it comes of age. The decade will be a crucial period to lay down the legacy of the forest, and secure it for future generations.” She thanked the very many partners and volunteers who have been crucial to its success and invited even deeper collaboration to make the most of what has been created so far.
There will be all kinds of ways for you to help us celebrate and we will be asking you to tell us what the forest means to you, your special places and how you have seen the forest change. Keep an eye on the website www.nationalforest.org for more details. Help us make the most of the forest!
>> See more on page 3
The National Forest – transforming 200 square miles of central England
In June we launched the next ten years for the forest, celebrating where we are and, similarly, running to meet the future. The fruits of the last decade include more forest sites, well looked after, increasingly joining up and contributing to an emerging forested landscape. More people can open their front door and know they are in a special, green place, which they are proud to show to their visitors. So, given that platform, in 2014 – 2024 the tasks are clear:
l Make the most of the green asset created so far and l Secure it for the future.
Everything we will do together in this decade will lay down an enduring legacy. This perennially ambitious enterprise will come of age in every respect. There will be new – and intensified – challenges, such as the risks to tree health and pressures on budgets. But these are dwarfed by what there is to go at. Every bit of rabbit fencing removed – needed ten years ago but not now – completely changes the feel of a woodland; and every business employee encouraged to take part in volunteering or team building out in the woods is likely to value the experience of working in a wood for years to come. These actions, fostered by one and all, whatever your link with the forest, will multiply exponentially over the next ten years and beyond, proving the transformative power of the forest. The next decade will be as exciting and significant as any the forest has had so far. I shall be leaving the wonderful NFC team at Christmas to give someone else the opportunity to shape the future with them, the Board, our partners and the landscape (which will surely continue to guide us). I’m more than delighted that the person is John Everitt, CEO of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, with whom I have already enjoyed working: if he has just a portion of the fun I have had, he will be very happy indeed.
As can be seen in the UK Championships held each year at the National Forest Wood Fair, the event is fiercely competitive from the moment of timber selection through to the race to get the legs on to the judges’ table. Out in the woods Peter runs a large range of traditional craft courses including Windsor chair-making and willow weaving. Christmas and birthday gift vouchers are available and all the courses can be booked online at www.greenwood-days.co.uk
Adrian Phillips (right) interviewed at the strategy launch event by NFC’s Charles Robinson
Above right: Peter Wood Right: World championship legs: Peter produced these in an unbelievable 7 minutes 26 seconds!
Or try these: Bushcraft and survival skills with Woodland Survival Crafts: www.woodlandsurvivalcrafts.com
l To make the most of the green asset created so far l To secure it for the future. There will be continuing creation of The National Forest, with more trees being planted. Other habitats as well as woodland will continue to be created to develop a mosaic of green spaces and will be counted as part of the ultimate map of the forest. Forest management will be increasingly important, systematic and long-term. It will take in all aspects of the forest, including non-wooded green areas and visitor attractions. The aim is to make the most of the forest in every way: a great landscape, supporting high quality recreation, heritage and wildlife. The commercial value of the forest will be realised,
without compromising its public purpose. The strategy highlights the importance of a great experience on the ground, for everyone in the forest. Attention will be given to effective marketing and information, making it easier for visitors and locals to enjoy the forest that meets their interests.
The National Forest Strategy 2014-2024 is available online at www.nationalforest.org
When they have finished the Teddy Walk, teddies, children and their carers will find they have completed a fun mile walk round the forestry centre grounds, with loads to interest them along the way.
During this next ten-year period the NFC will move to become a charity, capable of entrepreneurial activity, and will eventually move to become independent from Defra, its current sponsor government department. This will be achieved through new business models and income generation.
Woodland at Calke Abbey which had never before had public access was transformed in the summer into a woodland experience and play space.
Woodland management Woodland management training session
In order to help look after the growing woodlands in The National Forest, the NFC is running a programme of talks and practical woodland management sessions this winter. The programme is open to woodland owners, managers and other interested individuals in and around the forest, and the subjects covered include high pruning and thinning and managing for fuel and for local markets.
A working museum it may be, but Claymills is also moving with the times. It is a centre for Learning Outside The Classroom and runs
plantatree to remember a loved one. Many people find comfort in planting a tree to remember and celebrate the life of a special person.
]
>>
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“It’s amazing how quickly these youngsters learn,” said Roy Barratt, a Claymills volunteer.
“When presented with a challenge our young people really knuckle down.
Despite the forecast, around 2,000 people paid their money and came in through the gate. We were delighted to welcome not only local people, but first time visitors who had made their way up or down the M1, or across the county: everyone was dressed for the weather and determined to make the most of all that the Wood Fair had to offer.
The Trust has installed a new Activity Centre in order to expand the educational facilities and provide more family-friendly activities on steaming weekends. To find out more about Claymills Victorian Pumping Station see www.claymills.org.uk
Help us look after the woodlands, improve access to the forest and provide inspiring environmental education projects for young people.
LONG STANDING PARTNERSHIP GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH Lex Autolease, the UK’s largest fleet funding and management specialist, has worked closely with the National Forest Company since 2006. The partnership now enters an exciting new phase: the NFC is delighted that Lex Autolease has agreed to extend the partnership until 2016. “The key aim of the partnership is to support the transformation of the forest landscape, create ecological benefits, connect communities and support the local economy to thrive over the long term,” said Sophie Churchill, CEO, National Forest Company.
“The experience of seeing young and old working and learning together at Claymills has been terrific and certainly gives me hope for the pumping station’s future.”
You can become a Friend of The National Forest.
>> page 3
Spirits were not dampened, however. Staff were well togged-up, and former TV newsreader and National Forest Ambassador Kay Alexander arrived, looking weatherproof and sparkling, set to be our compere and roving presenter for the day.
Calke Explore!
Find out more about science, astronomy, archery and drumming at Rosliston Forestry Centre: www.roslistonforestrycentre.co.uk
The site encompasses gleaming working steam beam engines, boilers, a steam-driven workshop and blacksmith’s forge. Imagine vast brick boiler rooms filled with billowing steam and the satisfying clank of well-oiled steel and brass.
But come six o’clock in the morning big spots were splashing on the marquees as exhibitors drove onto site.
Many of the exhibitors sold more, chatted more, signed up more people for workshops. Clouds can have silver linings, it seems!
Read more about the ivy cottage, a grass trumpet and climbing inside a giant bird’s nest on the National Forest blog ‘Woodland Edge’.
And these youngsters start young! Pictured above is Zoe, all of six and a half years old. Her mother is an airline pilot and her father restores steam engines, so things mechanical are no doubt in her genes, but she has already mastered the use of basic tools and helped take an engine apart – and then got it to work again.
IT WAS A BLESSING IT HADN’T RAINED IN THE NIGHT.
Visitors said: “We’ve had a great day!” “Hasn’t everyone done well in the rain?”
Chocolate Heaven workshops at the Bittersweet Chocolate Company: www.bittersweetchocolates.co.uk
Young Engineers courses, is involved with the government’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics project and offers work experience for young people considering engineering as a career.
A series of five family-friendly trails has been created at sites throughout South Derbyshire, including one at Rosliston Forestry Centre. Teddy’s adventures at Rosliston include looking at the changing shapes of the trees and the undergrowth in the woodlands; hunting for spiders, worms, woodlice and ladybirds; and watching for dragonflies and pond skaters on the pond. Children are encouraged to play in the natural play area, walk slowly as a snail, jump like a rabbit and investigate the woodlands, wobble boards and willow domes they find along the way.
Visual art workshops with the G8 artists group: www.g8artists.co.uk
Claymills Victorian Pumping Station is a lovingly restored piece of industrial heritage, run by a Trust and a group of dedicated volunteers, situated in Stretton, just outside Burton upon Trent.
Tenth anniversary National Forest Wood Fair
The NFC is successful in gaining support from a wide range of funders including many business sponsors. As the forest matures there will be increasing opportunities for others to be part of a national success story.
Drystone walling and other country crafts with TCV: www.tcv.org.uk/midlands/tcv-national-forest
Details are at: www.nationalforest.org/woodlands/events.php
>> page 2
The two main themes for the coming of age decade are:
Young engineers at Claymills Victorian Pumping Station
Cookery courses at Seasoned Cookery School at Catton Hall: www.seasonedcourses.com/about-us/catton-hall
GROW A TREE FROM SEED:
[
}
THE NATIONAL FOREST STRATEGY 2014 – 2024
In a Log to Leg race, bodgers (pole lathe turners) take split greenwood logs and, using traditional tools such as an axe, shaving horse and pole lathe, turn them into a matching pair of chair legs. They work against the clock and under the watchful eye of the judges – and often with a lively audience shouting for their favourites.
Sophie Churchill OBE, Chief Executive, National Forest Company
Take a lovely woodland walk this autumn and look out for acorns to collect. Bring them home and follow the instructions on our Tree from Seed pages: www.nationalforest.org/involved/seed.php
In a nutshell:
National Forest Master Craftsman, Peter Wood of Greenwood Days, is the World Champion Bodger after winning the Log to Leg race at the prestigious APF forestry show this year.
My warmest wishes to all readers of Forest Scene – and thank you.
Did you know you can grow your own tree from a seed and come and plant it in The National Forest?
>> Continued from front page
The bodgers turned ten birthday ‘candles’ for the timber ‘cake’
It’s still 20C out there as I write this and so far autumn has been unusually still, dry and balmy. The harvest was early and I’ve even picked some sloes before anyone as impatient as I am beats me to my local supply. One of our catch phrases in the office is ‘on the front foot’ and I like to practice what I preach, in this respect at least.
Learn a craft with a world champion!
Young enginee rs
Sophie’s column
The partnership has already created two new woodlands, a community programme to support engagement by
]
>> >> page 4
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local people and a new multi-user trail linking local communities with the Heart of the Forest area. Lex Autolease colleagues have volunteered regularly to plant trees, prune young trees, create new pathways and carry out other site works. Tim Porter, Managing Director of Lex Autolease, commented: “I’m really proud that colleagues in Lex Autolease continue to make such a significant and practical investment in the environment and communities in which we operate, to help realise our vision of becoming the leading environmentallyresponsible vehicle leasing business in the UK.”
Wood Fair sponsor Vitax introduced many people to their biodegradable pots and slug treatments – with much hilarity about it being “just the weather to bring them out.” Luckily no one rushed home to try and catch the pesky things there and then! Richard Drakeley, Tourism Development Officer, NFC, said: “Despite the rain, the tenth anniversary National Forest Wood Fair was a fantastic success. Undaunted by the weather, and heartened by our supportive visitors and exhibitors, all of us at the National Forest Company and our partners at Leicestershire County Council were delighted with the day. We would like to say thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years and we’ll see you again next year.”
Leave a legacy to The National Forest and create a green and living memory. See www.nationalforest.org/sponsor/legacy/
]
In June we launched the next ten years for the forest, celebrating where we are and, similarly, running to meet the future. The fruits of the last decade include more forest sites, well looked after, increasingly joining up and contributing to an emerging forested landscape. More people can open their front door and know they are in a special, green place, which they are proud to show to their visitors. So, given that platform, in 2014 – 2024 the tasks are clear:
l Make the most of the green asset created so far and l Secure it for the future.
Everything we will do together in this decade will lay down an enduring legacy. This perennially ambitious enterprise will come of age in every respect. There will be new – and intensified – challenges, such as the risks to tree health and pressures on budgets. But these are dwarfed by what there is to go at. Every bit of rabbit fencing removed – needed ten years ago but not now – completely changes the feel of a woodland; and every business employee encouraged to take part in volunteering or team building out in the woods is likely to value the experience of working in a wood for years to come. These actions, fostered by one and all, whatever your link with the forest, will multiply exponentially over the next ten years and beyond, proving the transformative power of the forest. The next decade will be as exciting and significant as any the forest has had so far. I shall be leaving the wonderful NFC team at Christmas to give someone else the opportunity to shape the future with them, the Board, our partners and the landscape (which will surely continue to guide us). I’m more than delighted that the person is John Everitt, CEO of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, with whom I have already enjoyed working: if he has just a portion of the fun I have had, he will be very happy indeed.
As can be seen in the UK Championships held each year at the National Forest Wood Fair, the event is fiercely competitive from the moment of timber selection through to the race to get the legs on to the judges’ table. Out in the woods Peter runs a large range of traditional craft courses including Windsor chair-making and willow weaving. Christmas and birthday gift vouchers are available and all the courses can be booked online at www.greenwood-days.co.uk
Adrian Phillips (right) interviewed at the strategy launch event by NFC’s Charles Robinson
Above right: Peter Wood Right: World championship legs: Peter produced these in an unbelievable 7 minutes 26 seconds!
Or try these: Bushcraft and survival skills with Woodland Survival Crafts: www.woodlandsurvivalcrafts.com
l To make the most of the green asset created so far l To secure it for the future. There will be continuing creation of The National Forest, with more trees being planted. Other habitats as well as woodland will continue to be created to develop a mosaic of green spaces and will be counted as part of the ultimate map of the forest. Forest management will be increasingly important, systematic and long-term. It will take in all aspects of the forest, including non-wooded green areas and visitor attractions. The aim is to make the most of the forest in every way: a great landscape, supporting high quality recreation, heritage and wildlife. The commercial value of the forest will be realised,
without compromising its public purpose. The strategy highlights the importance of a great experience on the ground, for everyone in the forest. Attention will be given to effective marketing and information, making it easier for visitors and locals to enjoy the forest that meets their interests.
The National Forest Strategy 2014-2024 is available online at www.nationalforest.org
When they have finished the Teddy Walk, teddies, children and their carers will find they have completed a fun mile walk round the forestry centre grounds, with loads to interest them along the way.
During this next ten-year period the NFC will move to become a charity, capable of entrepreneurial activity, and will eventually move to become independent from Defra, its current sponsor government department. This will be achieved through new business models and income generation.
Woodland at Calke Abbey which had never before had public access was transformed in the summer into a woodland experience and play space.
Woodland management Woodland management training session
In order to help look after the growing woodlands in The National Forest, the NFC is running a programme of talks and practical woodland management sessions this winter. The programme is open to woodland owners, managers and other interested individuals in and around the forest, and the subjects covered include high pruning and thinning and managing for fuel and for local markets.
A working museum it may be, but Claymills is also moving with the times. It is a centre for Learning Outside The Classroom and runs
plantatree to remember a loved one. Many people find comfort in planting a tree to remember and celebrate the life of a special person.
]
>>
[
“It’s amazing how quickly these youngsters learn,” said Roy Barratt, a Claymills volunteer.
“When presented with a challenge our young people really knuckle down.
Despite the forecast, around 2,000 people paid their money and came in through the gate. We were delighted to welcome not only local people, but first time visitors who had made their way up or down the M1, or across the county: everyone was dressed for the weather and determined to make the most of all that the Wood Fair had to offer.
The Trust has installed a new Activity Centre in order to expand the educational facilities and provide more family-friendly activities on steaming weekends. To find out more about Claymills Victorian Pumping Station see www.claymills.org.uk
Help us look after the woodlands, improve access to the forest and provide inspiring environmental education projects for young people.
LONG STANDING PARTNERSHIP GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH Lex Autolease, the UK’s largest fleet funding and management specialist, has worked closely with the National Forest Company since 2006. The partnership now enters an exciting new phase: the NFC is delighted that Lex Autolease has agreed to extend the partnership until 2016. “The key aim of the partnership is to support the transformation of the forest landscape, create ecological benefits, connect communities and support the local economy to thrive over the long term,” said Sophie Churchill, CEO, National Forest Company.
“The experience of seeing young and old working and learning together at Claymills has been terrific and certainly gives me hope for the pumping station’s future.”
You can become a Friend of The National Forest.
>> page 3
Spirits were not dampened, however. Staff were well togged-up, and former TV newsreader and National Forest Ambassador Kay Alexander arrived, looking weatherproof and sparkling, set to be our compere and roving presenter for the day.
Calke Explore!
Find out more about science, astronomy, archery and drumming at Rosliston Forestry Centre: www.roslistonforestrycentre.co.uk
The site encompasses gleaming working steam beam engines, boilers, a steam-driven workshop and blacksmith’s forge. Imagine vast brick boiler rooms filled with billowing steam and the satisfying clank of well-oiled steel and brass.
But come six o’clock in the morning big spots were splashing on the marquees as exhibitors drove onto site.
Many of the exhibitors sold more, chatted more, signed up more people for workshops. Clouds can have silver linings, it seems!
Read more about the ivy cottage, a grass trumpet and climbing inside a giant bird’s nest on the National Forest blog ‘Woodland Edge’.
And these youngsters start young! Pictured above is Zoe, all of six and a half years old. Her mother is an airline pilot and her father restores steam engines, so things mechanical are no doubt in her genes, but she has already mastered the use of basic tools and helped take an engine apart – and then got it to work again.
IT WAS A BLESSING IT HADN’T RAINED IN THE NIGHT.
Visitors said: “We’ve had a great day!” “Hasn’t everyone done well in the rain?”
Chocolate Heaven workshops at the Bittersweet Chocolate Company: www.bittersweetchocolates.co.uk
Young Engineers courses, is involved with the government’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics project and offers work experience for young people considering engineering as a career.
A series of five family-friendly trails has been created at sites throughout South Derbyshire, including one at Rosliston Forestry Centre. Teddy’s adventures at Rosliston include looking at the changing shapes of the trees and the undergrowth in the woodlands; hunting for spiders, worms, woodlice and ladybirds; and watching for dragonflies and pond skaters on the pond. Children are encouraged to play in the natural play area, walk slowly as a snail, jump like a rabbit and investigate the woodlands, wobble boards and willow domes they find along the way.
Visual art workshops with the G8 artists group: www.g8artists.co.uk
Claymills Victorian Pumping Station is a lovingly restored piece of industrial heritage, run by a Trust and a group of dedicated volunteers, situated in Stretton, just outside Burton upon Trent.
Tenth anniversary National Forest Wood Fair
The NFC is successful in gaining support from a wide range of funders including many business sponsors. As the forest matures there will be increasing opportunities for others to be part of a national success story.
Drystone walling and other country crafts with TCV: www.tcv.org.uk/midlands/tcv-national-forest
Details are at: www.nationalforest.org/woodlands/events.php
>> page 2
The two main themes for the coming of age decade are:
Young engineers at Claymills Victorian Pumping Station
Cookery courses at Seasoned Cookery School at Catton Hall: www.seasonedcourses.com/about-us/catton-hall
GROW A TREE FROM SEED:
[
}
THE NATIONAL FOREST STRATEGY 2014 – 2024
In a Log to Leg race, bodgers (pole lathe turners) take split greenwood logs and, using traditional tools such as an axe, shaving horse and pole lathe, turn them into a matching pair of chair legs. They work against the clock and under the watchful eye of the judges – and often with a lively audience shouting for their favourites.
Sophie Churchill OBE, Chief Executive, National Forest Company
Take a lovely woodland walk this autumn and look out for acorns to collect. Bring them home and follow the instructions on our Tree from Seed pages: www.nationalforest.org/involved/seed.php
In a nutshell:
National Forest Master Craftsman, Peter Wood of Greenwood Days, is the World Champion Bodger after winning the Log to Leg race at the prestigious APF forestry show this year.
My warmest wishes to all readers of Forest Scene – and thank you.
Did you know you can grow your own tree from a seed and come and plant it in The National Forest?
>> Continued from front page
The bodgers turned ten birthday ‘candles’ for the timber ‘cake’
It’s still 20C out there as I write this and so far autumn has been unusually still, dry and balmy. The harvest was early and I’ve even picked some sloes before anyone as impatient as I am beats me to my local supply. One of our catch phrases in the office is ‘on the front foot’ and I like to practice what I preach, in this respect at least.
Learn a craft with a world champion!
Young enginee rs
Sophie’s column
The partnership has already created two new woodlands, a community programme to support engagement by
]
>> >> page 4
[
local people and a new multi-user trail linking local communities with the Heart of the Forest area. Lex Autolease colleagues have volunteered regularly to plant trees, prune young trees, create new pathways and carry out other site works. Tim Porter, Managing Director of Lex Autolease, commented: “I’m really proud that colleagues in Lex Autolease continue to make such a significant and practical investment in the environment and communities in which we operate, to help realise our vision of becoming the leading environmentallyresponsible vehicle leasing business in the UK.”
Wood Fair sponsor Vitax introduced many people to their biodegradable pots and slug treatments – with much hilarity about it being “just the weather to bring them out.” Luckily no one rushed home to try and catch the pesky things there and then! Richard Drakeley, Tourism Development Officer, NFC, said: “Despite the rain, the tenth anniversary National Forest Wood Fair was a fantastic success. Undaunted by the weather, and heartened by our supportive visitors and exhibitors, all of us at the National Forest Company and our partners at Leicestershire County Council were delighted with the day. We would like to say thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years and we’ll see you again next year.”
Leave a legacy to The National Forest and create a green and living memory. See www.nationalforest.org/sponsor/legacy/
]
In June we launched the next ten years for the forest, celebrating where we are and, similarly, running to meet the future. The fruits of the last decade include more forest sites, well looked after, increasingly joining up and contributing to an emerging forested landscape. More people can open their front door and know they are in a special, green place, which they are proud to show to their visitors. So, given that platform, in 2014 – 2024 the tasks are clear:
l Make the most of the green asset created so far and l Secure it for the future.
Everything we will do together in this decade will lay down an enduring legacy. This perennially ambitious enterprise will come of age in every respect. There will be new – and intensified – challenges, such as the risks to tree health and pressures on budgets. But these are dwarfed by what there is to go at. Every bit of rabbit fencing removed – needed ten years ago but not now – completely changes the feel of a woodland; and every business employee encouraged to take part in volunteering or team building out in the woods is likely to value the experience of working in a wood for years to come. These actions, fostered by one and all, whatever your link with the forest, will multiply exponentially over the next ten years and beyond, proving the transformative power of the forest. The next decade will be as exciting and significant as any the forest has had so far. I shall be leaving the wonderful NFC team at Christmas to give someone else the opportunity to shape the future with them, the Board, our partners and the landscape (which will surely continue to guide us). I’m more than delighted that the person is John Everitt, CEO of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, with whom I have already enjoyed working: if he has just a portion of the fun I have had, he will be very happy indeed.
As can be seen in the UK Championships held each year at the National Forest Wood Fair, the event is fiercely competitive from the moment of timber selection through to the race to get the legs on to the judges’ table. Out in the woods Peter runs a large range of traditional craft courses including Windsor chair-making and willow weaving. Christmas and birthday gift vouchers are available and all the courses can be booked online at www.greenwood-days.co.uk
Adrian Phillips (right) interviewed at the strategy launch event by NFC’s Charles Robinson
Above right: Peter Wood Right: World championship legs: Peter produced these in an unbelievable 7 minutes 26 seconds!
Or try these: Bushcraft and survival skills with Woodland Survival Crafts: www.woodlandsurvivalcrafts.com
l To make the most of the green asset created so far l To secure it for the future. There will be continuing creation of The National Forest, with more trees being planted. Other habitats as well as woodland will continue to be created to develop a mosaic of green spaces and will be counted as part of the ultimate map of the forest. Forest management will be increasingly important, systematic and long-term. It will take in all aspects of the forest, including non-wooded green areas and visitor attractions. The aim is to make the most of the forest in every way: a great landscape, supporting high quality recreation, heritage and wildlife. The commercial value of the forest will be realised,
without compromising its public purpose. The strategy highlights the importance of a great experience on the ground, for everyone in the forest. Attention will be given to effective marketing and information, making it easier for visitors and locals to enjoy the forest that meets their interests.
The National Forest Strategy 2014-2024 is available online at www.nationalforest.org
When they have finished the Teddy Walk, teddies, children and their carers will find they have completed a fun mile walk round the forestry centre grounds, with loads to interest them along the way.
During this next ten-year period the NFC will move to become a charity, capable of entrepreneurial activity, and will eventually move to become independent from Defra, its current sponsor government department. This will be achieved through new business models and income generation.
Woodland at Calke Abbey which had never before had public access was transformed in the summer into a woodland experience and play space.
Woodland management Woodland management training session
In order to help look after the growing woodlands in The National Forest, the NFC is running a programme of talks and practical woodland management sessions this winter. The programme is open to woodland owners, managers and other interested individuals in and around the forest, and the subjects covered include high pruning and thinning and managing for fuel and for local markets.
A working museum it may be, but Claymills is also moving with the times. It is a centre for Learning Outside The Classroom and runs
plantatree to remember a loved one. Many people find comfort in planting a tree to remember and celebrate the life of a special person.
]
>>
[
“It’s amazing how quickly these youngsters learn,” said Roy Barratt, a Claymills volunteer.
“When presented with a challenge our young people really knuckle down.
Despite the forecast, around 2,000 people paid their money and came in through the gate. We were delighted to welcome not only local people, but first time visitors who had made their way up or down the M1, or across the county: everyone was dressed for the weather and determined to make the most of all that the Wood Fair had to offer.
The Trust has installed a new Activity Centre in order to expand the educational facilities and provide more family-friendly activities on steaming weekends. To find out more about Claymills Victorian Pumping Station see www.claymills.org.uk
Help us look after the woodlands, improve access to the forest and provide inspiring environmental education projects for young people.
LONG STANDING PARTNERSHIP GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH Lex Autolease, the UK’s largest fleet funding and management specialist, has worked closely with the National Forest Company since 2006. The partnership now enters an exciting new phase: the NFC is delighted that Lex Autolease has agreed to extend the partnership until 2016. “The key aim of the partnership is to support the transformation of the forest landscape, create ecological benefits, connect communities and support the local economy to thrive over the long term,” said Sophie Churchill, CEO, National Forest Company.
“The experience of seeing young and old working and learning together at Claymills has been terrific and certainly gives me hope for the pumping station’s future.”
You can become a Friend of The National Forest.
>> page 3
Spirits were not dampened, however. Staff were well togged-up, and former TV newsreader and National Forest Ambassador Kay Alexander arrived, looking weatherproof and sparkling, set to be our compere and roving presenter for the day.
Calke Explore!
Find out more about science, astronomy, archery and drumming at Rosliston Forestry Centre: www.roslistonforestrycentre.co.uk
The site encompasses gleaming working steam beam engines, boilers, a steam-driven workshop and blacksmith’s forge. Imagine vast brick boiler rooms filled with billowing steam and the satisfying clank of well-oiled steel and brass.
But come six o’clock in the morning big spots were splashing on the marquees as exhibitors drove onto site.
Many of the exhibitors sold more, chatted more, signed up more people for workshops. Clouds can have silver linings, it seems!
Read more about the ivy cottage, a grass trumpet and climbing inside a giant bird’s nest on the National Forest blog ‘Woodland Edge’.
And these youngsters start young! Pictured above is Zoe, all of six and a half years old. Her mother is an airline pilot and her father restores steam engines, so things mechanical are no doubt in her genes, but she has already mastered the use of basic tools and helped take an engine apart – and then got it to work again.
IT WAS A BLESSING IT HADN’T RAINED IN THE NIGHT.
Visitors said: “We’ve had a great day!” “Hasn’t everyone done well in the rain?”
Chocolate Heaven workshops at the Bittersweet Chocolate Company: www.bittersweetchocolates.co.uk
Young Engineers courses, is involved with the government’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics project and offers work experience for young people considering engineering as a career.
A series of five family-friendly trails has been created at sites throughout South Derbyshire, including one at Rosliston Forestry Centre. Teddy’s adventures at Rosliston include looking at the changing shapes of the trees and the undergrowth in the woodlands; hunting for spiders, worms, woodlice and ladybirds; and watching for dragonflies and pond skaters on the pond. Children are encouraged to play in the natural play area, walk slowly as a snail, jump like a rabbit and investigate the woodlands, wobble boards and willow domes they find along the way.
Visual art workshops with the G8 artists group: www.g8artists.co.uk
Claymills Victorian Pumping Station is a lovingly restored piece of industrial heritage, run by a Trust and a group of dedicated volunteers, situated in Stretton, just outside Burton upon Trent.
Tenth anniversary National Forest Wood Fair
The NFC is successful in gaining support from a wide range of funders including many business sponsors. As the forest matures there will be increasing opportunities for others to be part of a national success story.
Drystone walling and other country crafts with TCV: www.tcv.org.uk/midlands/tcv-national-forest
Details are at: www.nationalforest.org/woodlands/events.php
>> page 2
The two main themes for the coming of age decade are:
Young engineers at Claymills Victorian Pumping Station
Cookery courses at Seasoned Cookery School at Catton Hall: www.seasonedcourses.com/about-us/catton-hall
GROW A TREE FROM SEED:
[
}
THE NATIONAL FOREST STRATEGY 2014 – 2024
In a Log to Leg race, bodgers (pole lathe turners) take split greenwood logs and, using traditional tools such as an axe, shaving horse and pole lathe, turn them into a matching pair of chair legs. They work against the clock and under the watchful eye of the judges – and often with a lively audience shouting for their favourites.
Sophie Churchill OBE, Chief Executive, National Forest Company
Take a lovely woodland walk this autumn and look out for acorns to collect. Bring them home and follow the instructions on our Tree from Seed pages: www.nationalforest.org/involved/seed.php
In a nutshell:
National Forest Master Craftsman, Peter Wood of Greenwood Days, is the World Champion Bodger after winning the Log to Leg race at the prestigious APF forestry show this year.
My warmest wishes to all readers of Forest Scene – and thank you.
Did you know you can grow your own tree from a seed and come and plant it in The National Forest?
>> Continued from front page
The bodgers turned ten birthday ‘candles’ for the timber ‘cake’
It’s still 20C out there as I write this and so far autumn has been unusually still, dry and balmy. The harvest was early and I’ve even picked some sloes before anyone as impatient as I am beats me to my local supply. One of our catch phrases in the office is ‘on the front foot’ and I like to practice what I preach, in this respect at least.
Learn a craft with a world champion!
Young enginee rs
Sophie’s column
The partnership has already created two new woodlands, a community programme to support engagement by
]
>> >> page 4
[
local people and a new multi-user trail linking local communities with the Heart of the Forest area. Lex Autolease colleagues have volunteered regularly to plant trees, prune young trees, create new pathways and carry out other site works. Tim Porter, Managing Director of Lex Autolease, commented: “I’m really proud that colleagues in Lex Autolease continue to make such a significant and practical investment in the environment and communities in which we operate, to help realise our vision of becoming the leading environmentallyresponsible vehicle leasing business in the UK.”
Wood Fair sponsor Vitax introduced many people to their biodegradable pots and slug treatments – with much hilarity about it being “just the weather to bring them out.” Luckily no one rushed home to try and catch the pesky things there and then! Richard Drakeley, Tourism Development Officer, NFC, said: “Despite the rain, the tenth anniversary National Forest Wood Fair was a fantastic success. Undaunted by the weather, and heartened by our supportive visitors and exhibitors, all of us at the National Forest Company and our partners at Leicestershire County Council were delighted with the day. We would like to say thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years and we’ll see you again next year.”
Leave a legacy to The National Forest and create a green and living memory. See www.nationalforest.org/sponsor/legacy/
]
Events
The National Forest Company Bath Yard, Moira, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 6BA T: 01283 551211 E: enquiries@nationalforest.org W: www.nationalforest.org
Until 31 Dec Eating In: cooking and eating at home. Exhibition at Snibston Discovery Museum 01530 278444
29-24 Dec Various dates Conkers Winter Wonderland 01283 216633 DECEMBER 6-7 Stories with Santa National Memorial Arboretum 01283 563483 6-7 Christmas Craft Show Calke Abbey 01332 863822 6-7 Christmas Gift and Food Fair National Memorial Arboretum 01283 563483 6-21 Weekends only Lights and Labyrinths at Calke Abbey 01332 863822 7 Christmas with Mummers and Carols at Donington le Heath Manor House 01530 831259
We are very excited that this winter we will welcome the 10,000th person to take part in one of our Plant a Tree events. Plant a tree is one of the ways individuals help us create The National Forest. The scheme has been running for over ten years and we have had the pleasure of meeting wonderful people from all over the country – if not the world – and of hearing many moving and inspiring stories about why people want to plant a tree. We have captured something of what it’s like to plant a tree with us in a short film you can watch on our website: www.nationalforest.org/ sponsor/plantatree
As well as planting the tree, the event is often a great opportunity to get together with family and friends. Here’s what some people have said about the experience: “It was very special to actually plant the trees, a chance for a wonderful day together.” “We planted a tree for German friends celebrating their Golden Wedding, as it was difficult to post a suitable gift. They were so touched with the idea, they phoned us with grateful thanks. No-one had ever done that for them. Of course we planted an English Oak!”
Plant a Tree is a perfect present for anyone who loves trees and wildlife. It makes a great Christmas gift (you know, those people who are impossible to buy for?) and for birthdays, weddings and anniversaries at any time of the year. You can buy Plant a Tree online, with a personalised certificate to download and print, making it a perfect last minute gift – even on Christmas Day.
Coalville
“An exhilarating experience, to think my tree will be part of a forest of the future.”
Each tree costs £25 which reflects the true cost of creating and developing the new woodland, including future care and maintenance of the site. Buy your gift at www.nationalforest.org/ sponsor/plantatree
‘
Thirteen light standard trees were planted in small groups in the extensive parkland area, strategically positioned to give a random appearance! In addition to native oak and lime trees, more ornamental species and varieties were chosen for their form and colour to create an attractive parkland habitat, with each tree protected by a traditional post and rail tree crate. A hay crop was again taken off the site this summer and options are being considered about how the parkland can best be managed in the future. Grazing by rare-breed cattle could be an option for example. The site has been created with generous financial support from Reabrook Limited, as well as the enthusiasm and hard work of their staff volunteers. Thank you.
18 & 22 Ranger-led Tree Ramble Calke Abbey 01332 863822
THE GOOD LIFE – planting in the spring at Nanpantan with Holland & Barrett.
MAY 16-17 Moira Canal Festival 07966 428127
>>
[
National Forest sponsor Dean & Smedley Family Pharmacies raised £1,200 with a successful Fun Run held at Rosliston Forestry Centre earlier this year. Nearly one hundred people signed up for either the four-mile Fun Run or the gentle one mile woodland walk. The money raised will help the South Derbyshire Environmental
Simon is already getting busy with The National Forest’s Changing Landscapes, Parklands and Freewoods schemes and reminds all landowners within the 200 square miles of the forest that if they are interested in considering woodland creation or management, the NFC has a range of grant schemes to suit their needs.
Letterbox or Inbox? Don’t forget to let us know if you would prefer to read Forest Scene online. Email forestscene@nationalforest.org Thank you!
]
On The National Forest’s ‘Woodland Edge’ blog, you can read Audrey Vaughan’s story about how she came to be a volunteer in The National Forest. Audrey helps look after Hicks Lodge, the National Forest Cycle Centre. Her early love of cycling had been rekindled when a friend took her to try out the new cycle trails there. When the Forestry Commission opened the café, she had found her perfect place: cake and cycling!
Education Project based at Rosliston provide tools and staffing for family and community events like ‘Drop in Gardening’ and ‘Wildlife Watch’. Lucy Dean (second from right) said: “We are so thrilled with this result! The day itself went fantastically well, and we owe our thanks to everyone who worked
You can now find The National Forest on Facebook, and we tweet @NatForestCo
>> page 6
‘
National Forest Company reaches twenty... As we enter a new decade for the forest, the National Forest Company will be celebrating ‘20’ in a big way:
l 2015 is the company’s 20th anniversary
She has learnt about tree pruning and management, planted trees and cleared away old tree guards, and discovered a world of wildlife she would never have known existed. “We have fun, we learn a lot – it’s all about discovery!” With her previous art and design skills she even designed the group’s new logo. Read more about Audrey’s story and about volunteering in The National Forest on the National Forest blog ‘Woodland Edge’ www.nationalforest.org/ newsroom
FUN RUN RAISES £1,200 for environmental education
He said: “I’m really excited about coming to work in The National Forest which as England’s leading sustainable woodland project has seen woodland cover rise from six to almost 20%. I look forward to working with colleagues to see this rise further and see woods created earlier come into active management.”
JANUARY
}
Coming of age
The National Forest is about people and nature, and the most important word here is ‘and’
Audrey says she is not a natural volunteer, but loves what has been created at Hicks Lodge so much that she was interested to find out more about how she could help look after the site.
Boothorpe woodland, a mile to the north of the village of Moira and two miles to the south of Swadlincote, nestles on both sides of a beautiful valley with a number of knolls, ridges and folds, which typically characterise the attractive, rolling landscape of the Ashby Woulds. Tree planting is now complete, with oak, lime, field maple, birch and wild cherry flourishing as well as woody shrubs like hazel, holly, guelder rose and hawthorn.
Simon has a broad range of forestry experience and has held several posts with the Forestry Commission, some working on partnership projects with The National Forest.
I was somewhere I’d never been before. I thought: I’m getting wet, I’m getting cold – I’m enjoying myself!
Spotlight on a growing woodland – Boothorpe
The National Forest Company welcomes Simon West as its new Head of Forestry.
21 Christmas Fine Food Fair Calke Abbey 01332 863822
>> page 5
“We didn’t want a traditional wedding list as we felt we had already got all the possessions two people could possibly need and lived in a very small flat at the time. We also wanted at least part of the wedding to be carbon neutral. We felt by asking people to contribute to planting trees we could create a bit more of a lasting reminder of our wedding and also one that we and others could visit. We chose The National Forest as it was somewhere that had a connection to both our families.”
New face at the forest
20 Candle-lit Carols National Memorial Arboretum 01283 563483
16-28 National Forest Walking Festival 01283 563483
Ashby de la Zouch
tree planters
13-14 Christmas trees on sale and Farmers Market (14th only) at Sence Valley Forest Park 01889 586593
19 & 28 Hidden Garden & Waking the House Calke Abbey 01332 863822
Swadlincote
10,000
plantatree
16 National Forest Food & Drink Fair Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483
Leicester
‘
6 ‘Give to Gain’ Environmental Volunteering ‘matchmaking’ event at Repton Village Hall for businesses and communities 01283 535039
Birmingham
‘
NOVEMBER
Burton upon Trent
Large print version available Tel: 01283 551211
Until 1 May 2015 Battledress: the impact of the First World War on women’s fashion. Exhibition at Snibston Discovery Museum 01530 278444
ForestScene WINTER 2014
Derby Nottingham
really hard to bring in this generous amount of sponsorship. It was great to work with such a dedicated group of people as the Environmental Education Team at Rosliston Forestry Centre, and we hope that the money raised by the participants and their supporters will go a long way in helping the team’s valuable work.”
www.nationalforest.org
Photographs courtesy of APF, Christopher Beech, Darren Cresswell, The Claymills Pumping Engines Trust, Jacqui Rock, Beth Walsh, Peter Wood.
l 2015 will also be the year we reach 20% forest cover throughout the 200 square miles of the forest. This reflects the substantial commitment of our partners, large and small, to help us realise the original vision of the forest, from the mere 6% when we started out. The average forest cover throughout the UK is 13% – and we still have many more trees to plant!
The new strategy for the ‘coming of age’ decade of The National Forest (20142024) was launched in the summer at an event held in the stunning setting of the Riding School at the National Trust’s Calke Abbey. “After nearly twenty years of investment and growth on the ground, The National Forest is here to stay,” said Catherine Graham-Harrison, Chair of the National Forest Company (NFC). “It is visible in the landscape and valued by a very wide range of people and organisations.” Over one hundred guests enjoyed a presentation that included three young students from Ibstock Community College talking about their experience of growing up in The National Forest, and an interview with National Forest Ambassador
Adrian Phillips, one of the early visionaries for the inception of the forest in 1987. He said: “Three things account for the success of The National Forest. Firstly, it is a national exemplar – other areas can learn from your experience; secondly, you have a bold vision and you stick to it; thirdly, it is about people and nature – and the most important word here is ‘and’.” The students spoke of the importance of the natural environment around where they live: playing wide games in the forest, and being able to explore miles away from their homes because they “know all the paths – we’ve grown up with them”. They spoke of encounters with wildlife and the importance of time out in the woods with their dad or grandfather, and the friendliness of the local
community if you were lost. They said that not losing views of the forest was very important to them and they challenged planners and developers to take this into account into the future. Sophie Churchill, Chief Executive for the NFC, introduced the new strategy. She said: “Our new strategy highlights the opportunities for the forest as it comes of age. The decade will be a crucial period to lay down the legacy of the forest, and secure it for future generations.” She thanked the very many partners and volunteers who have been crucial to its success and invited even deeper collaboration to make the most of what has been created so far.
There will be all kinds of ways for you to help us celebrate and we will be asking you to tell us what the forest means to you, your special places and how you have seen the forest change. Keep an eye on the website www.nationalforest.org for more details. Help us make the most of the forest!
>> See 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: www.nationalforest.org
Until 31 Dec Eating In: cooking and eating at home. Exhibition at Snibston Discovery Museum 01530 278444
29-24 Dec Various dates Conkers Winter Wonderland 01283 216633 DECEMBER 6-7 Stories with Santa National Memorial Arboretum 01283 563483 6-7 Christmas Craft Show Calke Abbey 01332 863822 6-7 Christmas Gift and Food Fair National Memorial Arboretum 01283 563483 6-21 Weekends only Lights and Labyrinths at Calke Abbey 01332 863822 7 Christmas with Mummers and Carols at Donington le Heath Manor House 01530 831259
We are very excited that this winter we will welcome the 10,000th person to take part in one of our Plant a Tree events. Plant a tree is one of the ways individuals help us create The National Forest. The scheme has been running for over ten years and we have had the pleasure of meeting wonderful people from all over the country – if not the world – and of hearing many moving and inspiring stories about why people want to plant a tree. We have captured something of what it’s like to plant a tree with us in a short film you can watch on our website: www.nationalforest.org/ sponsor/plantatree
As well as planting the tree, the event is often a great opportunity to get together with family and friends. Here’s what some people have said about the experience: “It was very special to actually plant the trees, a chance for a wonderful day together.” “We planted a tree for German friends celebrating their Golden Wedding, as it was difficult to post a suitable gift. They were so touched with the idea, they phoned us with grateful thanks. No-one had ever done that for them. Of course we planted an English Oak!”
Plant a Tree is a perfect present for anyone who loves trees and wildlife. It makes a great Christmas gift (you know, those people who are impossible to buy for?) and for birthdays, weddings and anniversaries at any time of the year. You can buy Plant a Tree online, with a personalised certificate to download and print, making it a perfect last minute gift – even on Christmas Day.
Coalville
“An exhilarating experience, to think my tree will be part of a forest of the future.”
Each tree costs £25 which reflects the true cost of creating and developing the new woodland, including future care and maintenance of the site. Buy your gift at www.nationalforest.org/ sponsor/plantatree
‘
Thirteen light standard trees were planted in small groups in the extensive parkland area, strategically positioned to give a random appearance! In addition to native oak and lime trees, more ornamental species and varieties were chosen for their form and colour to create an attractive parkland habitat, with each tree protected by a traditional post and rail tree crate. A hay crop was again taken off the site this summer and options are being considered about how the parkland can best be managed in the future. Grazing by rare-breed cattle could be an option for example. The site has been created with generous financial support from Reabrook Limited, as well as the enthusiasm and hard work of their staff volunteers. Thank you.
18 & 22 Ranger-led Tree Ramble Calke Abbey 01332 863822
THE GOOD LIFE – planting in the spring at Nanpantan with Holland & Barrett.
MAY 16-17 Moira Canal Festival 07966 428127
>>
[
National Forest sponsor Dean & Smedley Family Pharmacies raised £1,200 with a successful Fun Run held at Rosliston Forestry Centre earlier this year. Nearly one hundred people signed up for either the four-mile Fun Run or the gentle one mile woodland walk. The money raised will help the South Derbyshire Environmental
Simon is already getting busy with The National Forest’s Changing Landscapes, Parklands and Freewoods schemes and reminds all landowners within the 200 square miles of the forest that if they are interested in considering woodland creation or management, the NFC has a range of grant schemes to suit their needs.
Letterbox or Inbox? Don’t forget to let us know if you would prefer to read Forest Scene online. Email forestscene@nationalforest.org Thank you!
]
On The National Forest’s ‘Woodland Edge’ blog, you can read Audrey Vaughan’s story about how she came to be a volunteer in The National Forest. Audrey helps look after Hicks Lodge, the National Forest Cycle Centre. Her early love of cycling had been rekindled when a friend took her to try out the new cycle trails there. When the Forestry Commission opened the café, she had found her perfect place: cake and cycling!
Education Project based at Rosliston provide tools and staffing for family and community events like ‘Drop in Gardening’ and ‘Wildlife Watch’. Lucy Dean (second from right) said: “We are so thrilled with this result! The day itself went fantastically well, and we owe our thanks to everyone who worked
You can now find The National Forest on Facebook, and we tweet @NatForestCo
>> page 6
‘
National Forest Company reaches twenty... As we enter a new decade for the forest, the National Forest Company will be celebrating ‘20’ in a big way:
l 2015 is the company’s 20th anniversary
She has learnt about tree pruning and management, planted trees and cleared away old tree guards, and discovered a world of wildlife she would never have known existed. “We have fun, we learn a lot – it’s all about discovery!” With her previous art and design skills she even designed the group’s new logo. Read more about Audrey’s story and about volunteering in The National Forest on the National Forest blog ‘Woodland Edge’ www.nationalforest.org/ newsroom
FUN RUN RAISES £1,200 for environmental education
He said: “I’m really excited about coming to work in The National Forest which as England’s leading sustainable woodland project has seen woodland cover rise from six to almost 20%. I look forward to working with colleagues to see this rise further and see woods created earlier come into active management.”
JANUARY
}
Coming of age
The National Forest is about people and nature, and the most important word here is ‘and’
Audrey says she is not a natural volunteer, but loves what has been created at Hicks Lodge so much that she was interested to find out more about how she could help look after the site.
Boothorpe woodland, a mile to the north of the village of Moira and two miles to the south of Swadlincote, nestles on both sides of a beautiful valley with a number of knolls, ridges and folds, which typically characterise the attractive, rolling landscape of the Ashby Woulds. Tree planting is now complete, with oak, lime, field maple, birch and wild cherry flourishing as well as woody shrubs like hazel, holly, guelder rose and hawthorn.
Simon has a broad range of forestry experience and has held several posts with the Forestry Commission, some working on partnership projects with The National Forest.
I was somewhere I’d never been before. I thought: I’m getting wet, I’m getting cold – I’m enjoying myself!
Spotlight on a growing woodland – Boothorpe
The National Forest Company welcomes Simon West as its new Head of Forestry.
21 Christmas Fine Food Fair Calke Abbey 01332 863822
>> page 5
“We didn’t want a traditional wedding list as we felt we had already got all the possessions two people could possibly need and lived in a very small flat at the time. We also wanted at least part of the wedding to be carbon neutral. We felt by asking people to contribute to planting trees we could create a bit more of a lasting reminder of our wedding and also one that we and others could visit. We chose The National Forest as it was somewhere that had a connection to both our families.”
New face at the forest
20 Candle-lit Carols National Memorial Arboretum 01283 563483
16-28 National Forest Walking Festival 01283 563483
Ashby de la Zouch
tree planters
13-14 Christmas trees on sale and Farmers Market (14th only) at Sence Valley Forest Park 01889 586593
19 & 28 Hidden Garden & Waking the House Calke Abbey 01332 863822
Swadlincote
10,000
plantatree
16 National Forest Food & Drink Fair Rosliston Forestry Centre 01283 563483
Leicester
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6 ‘Give to Gain’ Environmental Volunteering ‘matchmaking’ event at Repton Village Hall for businesses and communities 01283 535039
Birmingham
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NOVEMBER
Burton upon Trent
Large print version available Tel: 01283 551211
Until 1 May 2015 Battledress: the impact of the First World War on women’s fashion. Exhibition at Snibston Discovery Museum 01530 278444
ForestScene WINTER 2014
Derby Nottingham
really hard to bring in this generous amount of sponsorship. It was great to work with such a dedicated group of people as the Environmental Education Team at Rosliston Forestry Centre, and we hope that the money raised by the participants and their supporters will go a long way in helping the team’s valuable work.”
www.nationalforest.org
Photographs courtesy of APF, Christopher Beech, Darren Cresswell, The Claymills Pumping Engines Trust, Jacqui Rock, Beth Walsh, Peter Wood.
l 2015 will also be the year we reach 20% forest cover throughout the 200 square miles of the forest. This reflects the substantial commitment of our partners, large and small, to help us realise the original vision of the forest, from the mere 6% when we started out. The average forest cover throughout the UK is 13% – and we still have many more trees to plant!
The new strategy for the ‘coming of age’ decade of The National Forest (20142024) was launched in the summer at an event held in the stunning setting of the Riding School at the National Trust’s Calke Abbey. “After nearly twenty years of investment and growth on the ground, The National Forest is here to stay,” said Catherine Graham-Harrison, Chair of the National Forest Company (NFC). “It is visible in the landscape and valued by a very wide range of people and organisations.” Over one hundred guests enjoyed a presentation that included three young students from Ibstock Community College talking about their experience of growing up in The National Forest, and an interview with National Forest Ambassador
Adrian Phillips, one of the early visionaries for the inception of the forest in 1987. He said: “Three things account for the success of The National Forest. Firstly, it is a national exemplar – other areas can learn from your experience; secondly, you have a bold vision and you stick to it; thirdly, it is about people and nature – and the most important word here is ‘and’.” The students spoke of the importance of the natural environment around where they live: playing wide games in the forest, and being able to explore miles away from their homes because they “know all the paths – we’ve grown up with them”. They spoke of encounters with wildlife and the importance of time out in the woods with their dad or grandfather, and the friendliness of the local
community if you were lost. They said that not losing views of the forest was very important to them and they challenged planners and developers to take this into account into the future. Sophie Churchill, Chief Executive for the NFC, introduced the new strategy. She said: “Our new strategy highlights the opportunities for the forest as it comes of age. The decade will be a crucial period to lay down the legacy of the forest, and secure it for future generations.” She thanked the very many partners and volunteers who have been crucial to its success and invited even deeper collaboration to make the most of what has been created so far.
There will be all kinds of ways for you to help us celebrate and we will be asking you to tell us what the forest means to you, your special places and how you have seen the forest change. Keep an eye on the website www.nationalforest.org for more details. Help us make the most of the forest!
>> See more on page 3
The National Forest – transforming 200 square miles of central England