A Montgomeryshire woodland that faced an uncertain future has been saved following an incredible effort from local people.
An astonishing £129,772 of the £150,000 needed, or 87%, has been secured through an appeal launched by the Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust who say it is enough to proceed with the purchase.
“Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust are pleased to announce that the Dolforwyn Woods appeal has been successful and we are now proceeding with its acquisition,” said a proud statement.
“We have engaged solicitors and are completing negotiations with the current owners. We still haven’t reached the total needed, so we will continue with our fund-raising efforts over the coming weeks and are confident that the outstanding sum will be raised.
“A big thank-you to all the wonderful volunteers and donors for all their generous support. We couldn’t have done it without you!”
The Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust has managed the woods for the past five years but its owners decided it was time to sell.
The woods, located off the Welshpool road, behind Dolforwyn Hall, are home to rare dormice, woodpeckers and butterflies and are enjoyed by thousands of visitors each year. If sold to private owners the woods could have been closed to the public and possibly felled, destroying many habitats for wildlife.
Local wildlife TV presenter Iolo Williams was among the many people who supported the campaign which was only recently launched.
He said back in October: “Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust has worked hard to improve the variety and quality of habitats available at Dolforwyn Woods so that wildlife there can flourish for the local community to enjoy. I really hope that the people of Wales dig deep to protect this treasured area.”
PICTURE (from MWT web site): Fundraisers from a recent fun run can now celebrate.