It was a privilege to spend a fascinating morning with Ian from Forestry England (and his lovely cocker spaniels!) visiting Guisborough Forest .
Like many of you, I was horrified when I heard about the awful fires in April and the damage they caused. The vandals who do this are mindless and cruel, and commit a criminal offence. It's great that so many people want to help re-plant. Ian emphasised at least a year is required to see what has survived and we saw dozens of tiny trees re-emerging where it looked like they had been destroyed (see the top right photo).
Ian explained the importance of allowing this natural recovery to take place, as well as projects including widening the firebreaks. Everyone wanting to get involved with helping to care for the forest should get in touch with Friends of Guisborough Forest & Walkway.
Forestry England are celebrating their centenary this year and it was great to learn about the many different aspects of their work. It was also an opportunity to appreciate the stunning views over Guisborough and right out to the coast; I will definitely be back for another walk soon. There is also far more wildlife than I ever realised, including adders and pine martens!