Helping to Preserve Ancient Kentish Woodland

Brett Group have provided support for a project combating 'ash dieback disease' which is infecting ancient woodland in Charing, Kent.

Since last year, the Charing Alderbed Committee have been working hard to raise funds to restore the ancient Alderbed woodland in Kent, which has been threatened by severe 'ash dieback' - a widespread disease that can have destructive consequences for the UK’s forests. The disease's deteriorating effect on ash trees not only affects the health of the woodland but brittle branches can easily snap causing a safety risk for the public.

The 400-year-old wildlife habitat is home to several endangered species, and is an important green space for the local community. While there is currently no cure for the disease, careful woodland management can prevent it from spreading. 

Maintenance work being carried out to save the ancient woodland

Woodland maintenance and restorative work to control the disease can come at a significant cost, and often requires extensive manual labour. The overwhelming local community support, backed by donations meant that the project passed its initial funding target and exceeded the Alderbed Committee’s expectations. 

Volunteers planting 105 new trees.

The funds were used to employ tree surgeons for the felling operation, as well as purchasing new trees required for the replanting program. Alderbed volunteers planted 105 new trees by hand, avoiding machinery where possible to reduce any disturbance to the local wildlife.

Once the work was completed the forest was able to reopen to the public, and to mark the occasion, supporters of the appeal were invited to plant the remaining ten new trees. 

Rowena Munday, a representative from the Alderbed Committee, said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to all our supporters and sponsors, including Brett, whose generosity has enabled us to save this ancient habitat. The speed with which the funds were raised enabled the felling, clearing, and replanting to be completed at the best possible time of year. This space is an invaluable sanctuary to many local people. Happily it is now safe and open again for the enjoyment of all. The work of the Alderbed Group will continue to nurture the new trees and protect this very special place which the public are welcome to visit.”

For more information about the project please visit Charing's Community Alderbed Wood Crisis (spacehive.com)