MAYOR Nigel Carter and a hardy group of volunteers braved the cold and snow this morning for the official opening of Belvedere Woods in Devizes.

The ribbon cutting at the woods close to Quakers Walk followed a clean-up in the sunshine on Saturday.

The woods, which are owned by the Merchant Venturers, have been taken been taken over on a long lease by the council, and it is hoped will be used regularly be walkers and cyclists.

Cllr Carter was joined by local people, town councillors, members of the the clean up group CUDS and the town council staff.

Cllr Carter said: “I am thrilled to be opening this important area and know that it will become a valuable resource for families, dog walkers and anyone interested in nature.”

Devizes Town Council has been working with a number of agencies over the past three and a half years, including the police, Devizes OpenDoors and the Merchant Venturers to clear the area and make it a place to enjoy.

On Saturday around 40 volunteers laid paths, litter picked and tidied building on the work which has been undertaken by the Town Council Parks and Open Spaces Team.

Similar project will be organised and anyone wishing to get involved can register their interest by ringing the Town Hall on 01380 722160.