"I am happy to introduce myself as a new Project Manager at Westonbirt Arboretum. A little about me – I have always spent a lot of time among trees, firstly working in arboriculture which led me to study Woodland Ecology and Conservation at the University of Cumbria. While in the north I managed an upland restoration project and have most recently worked for a community woodland in the West Midlands.

Funding from The Friends has paid for my role, enabling me to manage the exciting Silk Wood Community Project, which follows the discovery and devastation of ash dieback in Silk Wood where many infected trees have been felled. We are seeking funding to regenerate the area as a community woodland, engaging schools, community groups, volunteers, and others with the lifecycle of tree planting at the arboretum. Funds are also being sought for additional staff resources and activity costs. We want the groups we connect with to play a part in each stage of the project, including the design, planting, management, and monitoring of the new woodland.

Since the discovery of Chalara ash dieback, we have conducted floral and faunal surveys, providing a baseline from which we can monitor improvements in biodiversity provided by the new planting. We also continue to closely monitor our remaining ash trees for any signs of infection. The income generated from the sale of the felled ash has covered the sensitive woodland work to date - felling, extraction and ground repairs.

Over the next few months, the main focus will be seeking external funding which will determine the shape and scope of the project. We will also be looking to gather support from interested groups."