Newsletter
October 2024
Land purchase success!
We are thrilled to announce that we have successfully purchased the beautiful central plot (7.4 acres) of Buckenham Wood. We are delighted that together with local support and grant contributions we have been able to secure this land for nature and the community.
In the 18 months since our formation, support for the charity has continued to grow. We are very grateful to local people who have contributed in many ways, including volunteering in the wood, offering ideas at the AGM and giving donations. We are also grateful for the significant grants secured from the UK Government and Broadland District Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the Council’s Green Infrastructure Fund which were used to purchase the central plot of Buckenham Wood. See here for more details on the grants awarded.
A long-term management plan for the wood is currently under development. The Trust plans to collaborate with neighbouring landowners to create a holistic approach to safeguarding the habitats and biodiversity of the whole of Buckenham Wood. We will be reaching out to our supporter base soon to let you know about any work parties planned in the wood over winter, although significant work will not be commenced until we have the overall woodland plan.
We would like to say a big thank you to everyone who has contributed towards this significant milestone in the story of Buckenham Wood. It is a testament to the collective commitment of our community to preserve our local environment and to ensure a greener future for generations to come.
Our first Annual General Meeting (AGM)
We were excited to hold our first annual general meeting on 20th September 2024, 7pm, at Strumpshaw Community Hall, and delighted to share the progress made over the past year with more than 20 BAWT members who attended. We were privileged to hear from three amazing guest speakers. Brian Tubby spoke to us about capturing the perfect wildlife photo. Helen Baczkowska and Lydia Kittle from Norfolk Wildlife Trust shared their extensive knowledge of the woodland ecology. BAWT would like to thank them for being so generous with their time and expertise, both talks were very interesting and a real highlight of the evening.
Another highlight was our workshop to gather valuable member insight. We really appreciated everyone's enthusiasm to share their thoughts during the workshop sessions. It was great to hear new perspectives and experiences. Your input will feed into future management plans for the wood.
The Trustees would like to thank everyone for their continued support, and we look forward to seeing you at our next AGM!
If you’d like to attend the next meeting but are not yet a member, please sign up here - it’s free!
Vacancy for a volunteer Trust Secretary – can you help?
We’re looking for a dedicated and organised individual to join our very friendly team as a volunteer Trust Secretary - this is a vital role for the efficient running of the Trust. It’s a great opportunity to meet and collaborate with folk who share your passion to preserve and maintain Buckenham Wood. A full role description can be found here.
If you’re interested or know someone who might be, please get in touch with us at info@buckenhamancientwoodland.org
Lingwood Village Hall – Craft and Produce Fair
A big thank-you to everyone who stopped by to talk to us about Buckenham Wood on Sunday 29th September at Lingwood Village Hall. We always love to hear people's stories and experiences of Buckenham Wood; it highlights how much the woodland is cherished and valued by the local community.
Some people were keen to know about planned work parties in the wood. We will be reaching out soon with an update on this. If you would like to become a member and be added to our mailing list, please sign up here - it’s free!
Join us for a chat
We warmly invite all members of our local community to join us for a chat before our Trustee meetings. It’s a great opportunity to find out more about what’s planned for Buckenham Wood, meet the Trustees, and share your thoughts.
When: Every second Thursday of the month.
Time: 6:30 - 7:30 PM
Where: Whiskins Bar, at Lingwood Village Hall.
Whether you’re interested in Buckenham Wood, have ideas to share, or just want to enjoy a friendly chat, we’d love to see you there!
Gift Aid
BAWT is very grateful to everyone who has contributed to our fund for purchasing, conserving and managing the wood. If you wish for us to retrospectively claim Gift Aid on your donation (made before 15th January 2024) please contact us via BAWT's email and we will get right back to you.
Five easy ways to support the Trust
BAWT purchased the woodland in October 2024, starting the hard work and financial commitment to maintain it. Let’s all get together to help ensure that the local community continues to benefit from our Ancient Woodland for generations to come.
1. Become a member – it’s free!
We need members so that funders can see we have community support, and to guide our decisions.
2. Volunteer
We need volunteers to help us raise money to maintain the woodland, and manage it for people and wildlife.
3. Donate
We’re raising money to maintain the woodland for people and wildlife. If you have already donated – thank you! Please spread the word and encourage others to donate.
4. Follow us on Facebook
Please follow and share us on Facebook.
5. Spread the word
If you think you know someone who would enjoy getting involved with our work please tell them about our website, where they can find out more about us.
This project is part-funded by the UK Government and Broadland District Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.