Chippenham forest will be a legacy (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Chippenham forest will be a legacy

5:00pm Saturday 12th May 2012 in Chippenham

Pupils at King’s Lodge School in Chippenham have planted a forest of trees that teachers say will act as a legacy for future generations of children.

Around 60 saplings, including rowan, cherry and oak, were planted in a ceremony at the school last weekend.

A one-of-a-kind tree was also planted – an oak that started life in the royal gardens.

Reception teacher Claire Goddard, who is training to become a forest schools practitioner, was inspired by the outdoor play and learning course to plant the copse.

“It wasn’t the best weather, but it didn’t stop anyone from having a great day,” she said.

“We ended up toasting marshmallows over a fire to keep ourselves nice and warm, and we also had a willow weaving workshop for the children too.”

Homebase in Chippen-ham donated fencing to protect the young trees from hungry wildlife, which was put up by willing volunteers on the day.