FOUNDRY Wood in Leamington will celebrate its tenth birthday this weekend.
The community woodland on the site of the former Ford Foundry officially opened in June 2013, after nearly 18 months’ work by local organisation Achieving Results in Communities (ARC). With the help of volunteers, the woodland was made accessible to the public and the Friends of Foundry Wood charity established.
Since then, ARC and the Friends of Foundry Wood have built infrastructure – a covered wooden outdoor classroom, compost toilet, bike shelter, wooden climbing frame and play area – to support events and activities whatever the weather.
They have also recently created a pond to support wildlife, restored a railway goods wagon and provided a history of the site and the surrounding foundries for visitors.
In the past decade the woodland has hosted hundreds of events and activities, including creating wildlife habitats, woodland crafts, theatre performances, toddler and children’s sessions, wellbeing groups and more
Friends of Foundry Wood chair Kristie Naimo said: “We can hardly believe that it’s been ten years. Ten years in which we have created a wonderful community resource thanks to the continuing support of the community, individuals, businesses, and other organisations.”
“The ongoing success is especially thanks to many dedicated volunteers who look after the woodland ‘behind the scenes’. This includes volunteers opening the woods for people to use during the day, and closing at night so that wildlife can use the space. In this way, we are able to share this fantastic natural resource with many animals, birds and other wildlife – right here on our doorstep.”
The Friends are inviting people to join them at the woods on Saturday (June 24) between 2pm and 6pm for a celebration including storytelling and song, woodland craft activities, guided tours and exhibitions, food and drink.
Visit www.foundrywood.co.uk/ for full details.
Donations to Foundry Wood for ongoing maintenance and care can be made at localgiving.org/charity/foundrywood/
