A SERIES of specific projects to keep alive a popular ancient wood are finally coming to fruition. Birchanger Wood has benefited from the Forestry Commission s English Woodland Grant Scheme – some �39,000 has been ploughed into the woodland over the last

A SERIES of specific projects to keep alive a popular ancient wood are finally coming to fruition.

Birchanger Wood has benefited from the Forestry Commission's English Woodland Grant Scheme - some �39,000 has been ploughed into the woodland over the last five years.

Areas where the funding has been in evidence include footpaths, bird boxes, picnic benches and tables, and pond renovation.

The commission has also given years of advice and guidance to Birchanger Wood Trust, which manages the woodland, for the ongoing coppicing programme.

Trust warden Pat Forest said that, despite the various projects coming to an end, work is ongoing to make the woodland an area for everyone's enjoyment.

"Moving into the future our aim is to upgrade the wood and the Forestry Commission has once again come to our aid with footpaths, coppicing, bird boxes, pond renovation and picnic benches and tables," he said.

"The Forestry Commission continue to be our stalwart supporters, without whose help we would be unable to attain our goals."

The woodland originates from the 12th century when it was recorded as 'Bircehangra', which means 'Wooded slope growing with Birch trees'. To this day, the wood contains Birch trees. In spring it is renowned for its carpets of bluebells and wood anemones.

Further information on these areas and other Forestry Commission support can be found at www.forestry.gov.uk/eastengland