Working in partnership to restore and improve ancient woodland

The Surrey Choices Growth Team has been working in partnership with the Surrey Heath Tree Wardens to make big improvements to Warren Wood in Frimley. Their achievements were marked with an appearance from Rt Hon Michael Gove MP for Surrey Heath, Trefor Hogg, Chair of the Surrey Heath Tree Wardens and newly elected Surrey Heath County Councillor, and members of the public, all congratulating the work of the Tree Wardens and the Surrey Choices volunteers. 

Michael Gove, made the most of a break in the weather last Friday in order to help plant an Oak tree. Writing on his Facebook page, Mr Gove says: “Thoroughly enjoyed meeting the Surrey Choices team and the Surrey Heath Tree Wardens in Warren Wood this morning. The work these volunteers have been doing to restore and improve this ancient woodland is truly admirable.”

Trefor Hogg, who is a keen environmentalist also present. When he first visited the woodland, he remembers it being a dark, dangerous and lifeless place. Now you can hear birds all the time and locals will tell you it is a pleasure to walk in the restored area. 

Volunteers from Surrey Choices, James and Oliver have benefitted from being part of The Growth Team. Their participation has improved their confidence, increased their independence and given them new skills. Surrey Choices has a commitment to wellbeing and this partnership with Surrey Heath Tree Wardens provides the added benefits of working alongside nature. Their volunteer organisation also seeks to inspire everyone in the community to achieve greater wellbeing.

Commenting on the day, Keith Chandler, Chief Finance and Resource Officer at Surrey Choices congratulated the team saying:”We are all very proud of what the Growth Team is achieving in partnership with the Surrey Heath Tree Wardens. It’s also great to hear from local people how this work is making a massive difference to the biodiversity of this local area.”

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