Volunteers are needed to help transform Penn Wood.

The Woodland Trust and Chiltern Rangers have been working together to bring Penn Wood, near High Wycombe, back to life.

Hidden ponds have been restored, holly trimmed back, and non-native conifer trees and invasive rhododendrons have been removed.

The aim is to restore ancient woodland to its former glory.

School pupils, conservation volunteers, youth clubs and scout groups have been giving their time to clear the woodland.

Paul Jarczewski, site manager for the Woodland Trust, said: “Volunteering in woods is a fantastic, social activity that gets people outside and building new skills. I hope everyone will be inspired to look out for future opportunities in the wood.”

John Shaw, from the Chiltern Rangers, added: “We have really enjoyed engaging with new groups and bringing nearly 100 local people of mixed ages and mixed abilities to help at Penn Wood on a variety of tasks.

“The project benefits their health and well-being and is great for helping a wide range of wildlife from veteran trees to butterflies and wildflowers.”

Penn Wood is one of the largest ancient woodlands in the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Work at Penn Wood has been funded with a £68,800 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), £34,833 from The Veolia Environmental Trust, awarded through the Landfill Communities Fund, and nearly £30,000 from local supporters.

To get involved or for more information, contact John Shaw on 01494 474 486 or email info@chilternrangers.co.uk

To find out more about woods in your area, visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods