From Bill Morris, Head Ranger  “Winter was a time when we completed our larger practical conservation tasks.  Our volunteers helped us widen several paths.  This  allowed more light on to the woodland floor which benefits woodland flowers and the insects that visit them.  We also cleared another section of the ramparts around Stokeleigh Camp Iron Age Hill Fort.

Financial help from Natural England and a generous gift from the family and friends of Pat Bollom, a long standing member of the National Trust, allowed us to employ a specialist contractor for the work.  They removed encroaching scrub and non-native plants such as cotoneaster and holm oak from the species rich grassland on the gorge side.  The work gives the special plants that grow in the Avon Gorge such as Bristol rock-cress and Leigh Woods whitebeam a chance to spread and thrive.

After winter it is always lovely to see the first signs of spring and the hazel catkins and celandines appearing.  The longer and warmer days help lift the spirits of the area and there is always something new to see.  So whether your favourite way of getting around the woods is walking, cycling or running its a great time to get out and explore.