Our second outdoor project was much bigger and was also inspired and led by Nick Sorby. We realised that 30 ash trees, mostly on the Rec but including a large one on the village green, were suffering from ash dieback disease. For safety reasons, and following a consultation with villagers, we decided that these would need to be felled. After our professional tree surgeon had done his work, an energetic band of villagers cleared the massive amount of logs and brush. Logs were made available to villagers, who were invited to make a donation.
In February, 2021, 11 families arrived in staggered Covid-compliant order to plant 110 tree saplings. A log trail and log castle were created for children. Log piles were left to nature. The copse is now a haven for wildlife, native plants and local people of all ages. It was officially opened in September 2021 by East Hampshire Councillor Tony Costigan. This expensive project needed very little funding from our reserves, thanks to very generous donations from villagers, who took the opportunity to dedicate trees to their loved ones, and a grant from East Hampshire District Council.