Cumbria’s woodlands are here for all of us to enjoy
The Forestry Commission is set to celebrate its centenary. Founded in 1919 the role of the commission was to increase the woodlands in Britain by purchasing large tracts of land for wood production. They set about the task of afforestation, simply put, that’s planting fresh trees on land that was never previously woods. Or reforestation, which as you may have guessed is planting trees on formerly cleared woodland.
So successful was the forestry commission that it amassed around seventeen thousand hectares in Cumbria alone, making it the fourth largest landowner in the county!
A lot has changed in the past hundred years, most notably our attitudes to the environment. The commission has reformed with the times and while wood production is still important the organisation now view themselves more as a custodian of our woodlands. As managers of the forests they work to protect our trees and plant species from disease and pests. They seek to improve habitats and protect historical sites. As climate change becomes more challenging they look to nurture and protect endangered species such as the red squirrel.
With such biodiversity in our woodlands it’s no surprise more people visit our forests than the seaside but the commission is keen to show that the woods are not just for adventure types; they want to open up the woods to everyone.
As Active Forest Coordinator Sonia Dryden is here to make that happen, it’s her job to encourage the public into the woods and use this lush domain for their own pleasure.
“This is a role supported by Sport England and we try to help more people get more active in the forest. It’s about finding out what people want to do and helping them to do it. I try to make things as relaxed, fun and inclusive as possible.” Sonia explains.
Her time as the Development Officer for Cumbria with England Netball may mean she is more used to working with elite athletes but Sonia is relishing the chance to help improve the health and well being of the general public. She works closely with local groups and clubs to organise a whole range of events during the year. For starters there’s weekly Buggyfit sessions for mums which is a great way to workout with the kids in the beautiful surroundings of Whinlatter forest. Another weekly event is the parkrun which encourages people to complete a set course. Walk, jog or run, it doesn’t matter.
Keswick Tri Club hold events throughout the year. The duathlon is one, a running and cycling event, it’s aimed at beginners who may not have taken part in something like this before. The next Duathlon will be held on Sunday the 28th of October.
West Cumberland Orienteering Club host lots of events, soon to be held is the popular Spook-O event. Starting at 6:30 on Thursday 25th of October this after dark event is great for families and everyone is encouraged to wear Halloween fancy dress. The club promise a great evening for those brave enough to follow the trail through the dark, wild woods. Be sure to bring a good torch.
Along with the walking and bike trails Sonia is keen to point out that the facilities at Whinlatter cater to everyone.
“There is a wild play are for the children and the recently introduced Tramper Trail. The tramper is an all terrain mobility scooter, this a project funded by Lake District Mobility and it’s intended to help people with mobility difficulties to get out and about around the forest with friends and family. The trail takes in some magnificent views, which are sure to impress”
Bring the kids for Adventure Club at half term. Designed for ages 7 – 12, activities range from den building, pond dipping, camp fires, forest food, wildlife watching, mountain walking and orienteering.
Sonia clearly enjoys her new role. “Working at the top of a mountain has its challenges but at the same time it’s very rewarding. The views, wildlife, trees and the people are what make Whinlatter a very special place to work and visit. Being outdoors can have a really positive impact on your wellbeing and I urge everyone to visit and find out for themselves why it’s just so special.”
For more information on any of the events please visit www.forestryengland.uk/search-forests, for details on the duathlon you can find it at www.keswicktriclub.org. Or you can ask any member of the forestry staff.
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