In 2019 Michael Braithwaite gifted the Lower Dean as an amenity for the village of Denholm and a haven for wildlife.
“The ancient woodland of the Lower Denholm Dean has been transferred to community ownership thus ensuring future generations can continue to benefit from this rich resource.”
Planting started on Tuesday 5th November in the Lower Dean by local volunteers and Borders Forest Trust volunteers. Primary School pupils and Playgroup carried on the following day. . Planting in Zones 2-4 should be complete by the end of this year. After that numbered discs will be attached to the tree stakes so that sponsors can identify their tree if they want to. Aspen and Birch trees are still available for sponsorship.
The Sponsor an Oak appeal has been so successful that the oaks are all sponsored but we are extending it to include Birch and Aspen. Birch is a beautiful slender tree with silver bark bringing light and life to new woodlands.
Aspen is known for its trembling leaves and its unique sound in the forest.
To help cover the cost of replanting and to create a fund for future maintenance, you are invited to become a sponsor by donating £10 for one tree or more for additional trees. If you are able to help in this way, please download and complete the sponsor form (on the right) and send it to any of your friends or family you think would also help.
Your name and sponsorship number will be on the Lower Dean page of the Denholm Village website - unless you wish to be anonymous. A number on the tree guard will identify your tree.
Photo: Neil and Antony Braithwaite unveiling the sign..
This photo, taken at the second bridge, shows the aftermath of the felling of the Sitka Spruce.
Kids from the Primary School learning how to plant young saplings