First, it’s very important to say that we are extremely grateful to the late Mr. Cottrell who left us a legacy. This will not only enable the planting of native trees and improving native woodlands, but it’s also an important endorsement of the charity’s role in Bristol and Avon.

The picture above shows fruit tree planting at Crockerne School, Pill.

Other activities included:

• Running successful Forest School Level 1, Level 3, Outdoor Cooking and Outdoor First Aid courses as part of our 2016 training programme. A good proportion of the Forest School Leaders in and around Bristol have probably done our training: thanks to Jon, Jackie, Nicola & Rachel;
• Delivering the Dose of Nature pilot project working with local GP practices, Public Health Bristol and other partners to prescribe woodland activities for people with mental health needs;
• Starting the Dementia Well-being pilot project in partnership with Bristol Dementia Partnership. This evaluated project will offer woodland activities to people with dementia and their partners/ carers;
• Producing a detailed report on woodland condition and potential projects to inform the Bathscape phase one Heritage Lottery Fund bid;
• Producing 2 Woodland Management Plans for owners in South Gloucestershire and Bath & NE Somerset;
• Cutting paths and removing more tree shelters at the charity’s community woodland: The Retreat, near Upton Cheyney. WoodWatch, the local Friends group needs new members, so please email: woodlands@forestofavontrust.org, if you are interested and we will pass details on;
• Delivering 2 school’s orchards in the Radstock area, part funded by Western Power Distribution; and
• Charity director: Chris Bloor running 3 successful guided walks as part of Bristol Walk Fest (just ended);