22nd February 2003

First vist since purchasing the wood. Accompanied by cousins Val & John. The purpose of this trip is mainly to perform an initial survey, and to decide upon a plan of action.

We began at the southern-most gate and headed towards the southern boundary making a note of plant species found along the way. We located the southern boundary together with an access through to the adjoining plot in the southeast corner. From here we followed the southern boundary as best we could, and eventually reached the southwest corner, and the spring.

We continued around the perimeter as best we could, given the lie of the land and the swamp areas. We located the boundary between Lodgegate and Beech woods in a relatively open area of bracken. Here we found an 'ivy lollipop'. At this point we headed down to the stream. Our journey continued along the western edge, heading northwards. The northwest corner is very boggy and not accessible.

Turning east we made our way along the northern boundary until we reached the main track, and then headed back to the car for a well earned cuppa, and lunch.

After lunch we traced the eastern boundary north, eventually reaching the north gate. Here we picked up the other end of the main track and traced its route back to the main (southern) gate.

After another break we headed back to the stream for another look. Here we found a badger sett with at least 6 tunnels. By now the light was starting to fade, so we headed back home.

Plants found were; hard fern, hazel, common ash, willow, gorse, beech, dogwood, hornbeam, bramble, birch, honeysuckle, sweet chestnut, bracken, holly, polypody, cherry laurel, ivy, scotts pine, sessile oak, ash, sulphurtuft, foxgloves, rhododendron, and various lichens. Evidence of deer, badgers, and squirrels was also found.