Last month we worked with students from Pettypool College to clear an area of the college’s outdoor space that has been overtaken by rhododendron.

Project officer Saul and Community Engagement trainee Fiona worked with some of the students, who have learning disabilities,  on the conservation module of their course to gain practical first-hand experience of in using tools safely and practically.  Pettypool Brook, an area jointly owned by the college and the Forestry Commission, is an area of precious habitat and an important conservation area with SSSi status.

Huge amounts of overgrown rhododendron were removed and burned to make the area easier for the students to enjoy using.  Indeed, they are now working with another of our projects Animate! on a pantomime to be performed in the space.  The evil villain of the piece is to be based on the invasive rhododendron itself! Keep an eye on our website for more news of this performance. …