TESSA CAN SEE THE WOOD FROM THE TREES

1.56.59pm GMT Wed 24th Feb 2010

Tessa Munt during the volunteer tree-felling work on the Mendip Hills

Woodland Trust volunteers have been hard at work on the Mendip Hills and have been given a helping hand by a prospective MP.

Tessa Munt, the Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate for the Wells Constituency, joined the volunteers felling Norwegian Spruce trees which block out the sun.

The Trust's plan is to return the canopy to one composed of native broad-leaf trees, which allow more light and warmth to the forest floor so woodland flora can be re-established.

On the Mendips there has already been a return of a number of rare plants and in clearing certain trees, the volunteers hope to see these spreading.

The Woodland Trust's Jon Burgess, who is Woodland Officer for Somerset and North Devon, said: "We were very pleased to welcome Tessa and have the opportunity to highlight the work of the volunteers, and explain some of the environment, local history, and importance and character of the woodland."

Volunteers have previously completed path improvements, historic dry stone walling repairs, step-building and some coppicing.

Tessa said: "I've had a fantastic time working with the Woodland Trust's volunteers - and it was good to see different generations working together for the future. I learned how to fell trees safely, how to stack the wood and branches to encourage wildlife and I saw some of the valuable work that the Woodland Trust has already undertaken. I'd like to return later this year to learn about dry stone walling."

Volunteers will be back on the Mendips to do similar work on Sunday, March 21, and anyone who would like to go along and help out is asked to contact Jon Burgess on 01984 623999.