Beare Green Community Association volunteers have been working on the footpath around the pond. Undergrowth has been cut back and a new woodchip path has been laid over mud and eroded bare tree roots. This reduces the damage to the tree roots, makes using the footpath safer and generally enhances the beautiful walkway around the pond. Mole Valley District Council contractors provided the wood chippings from some tree safety work around the park area where some trees had to be reduced.

Maintaining the pathway around the pond

Beare Green Community Association volunteers with members of Leith Hill Trefoil Guild have been working on the footpath adjacent to Great Turners Wood off Highland Road.  Their intention is to maintain and enhance the path and the adjacent section of woodland for the benefit of residents, visiting walkers and local wildlife. Hazel and holly have been cut to open up the canopy and allow light to reach the floor. This has each year encouraged the growth of ground flora. Last year we saw the growth of bluebells along this pretty path and it is hoped that following years will bring even more colour to this well used thoroughfare. Cut material has been used to create a ‘dead hedge’ along the edge of the footpath which will benefit invertebrates, fungi and other wildlife. The ivy that had taken hold on so many of the strangled trees is being gradually removed to allow the trees to recover. Work pauses each year to allow the resident birds to nest throughout the woodland and in particular the inquisitive robins and wrens that have increased in number on the footpath since work began several years ago.  Great Turners Wood is cared for by Beare Green Community Association in partnership with volunteers from Gatwick Greenspace and Mole Valley District Council. We are also grateful for the help and backing from our District Councillor Michelle Watson.