Volunteers brave snowy weather
25th February, 2010
Northumberland Wildlife Trust volunteers have braved the snowy weather to carry out restoration work on a section of Briarwood Banks.
The ongoing project involves the removal of western hemlock and beech trees planted 50 years ago and replacing them with 18 native species and is providing the volunteers with the opportunity to restore such a fine example of ancient woodland.
Briarwood Banks is one of the best examples in the county of semi-natural ancient woodland, 
although there are areas where this has been altered significantly by past management. The site straddles the valley of the Kingswood Burn, a small tributary of the River Allen.
The project is due for completion later in the year and the improved structure and diversity will provide ideal conditions for a wide range of both plants and animals including the rare hazel dormouse which is believed to live in neighbouring woodland.
Geoff Dobbins, Estate Officer with the Trust is leading the project, he said: “I am always amazed by the commitment of all our volunteers who have persevered though harsh, wintry conditions on steep slippery slopes to carry out the work.”