THE PLANTATION

When it was taken on by the Ellesmere Branch in 1984, this woodland was neglected and depressing; a place where people dumped their rubbish. Formerly there were allotments here; when these were abandoned, sycamore invaded creating a dark and gloomy wood.

Luckily, enthusiastic souls within the Branch saw its potential and having secured the lease, have tended it regularly ever since.

Sycamore has been removed, paths put in, young trees planted and many bird boxes erected. Glades have been cleared providing sunny places for violets and butterflies; many of the maturing trees are entwined with ivy, attracting bees and nesting birds.

A young wood this may be (though not originally a plantation at all), but search carefully and you will find a dozen or so grand old oak trees, a few of them 200-300 years old. A circular path takes you around the wood; alternatively, strike out along the canal or into Ellesmere.