Forres Friends of Woods and Fields welcome 250 visitors to Chapleton fields open day festival

AROUND 250 people attended an open day focused on the work of a local environmental charity in fields near Sanquhar pond.

Forres Friends of Woods and Fields (FFWF) invited the community to enjoy food, drink and entertainment, while viewing what has been achieved at the site by Chapleton Farm so far, and to hear about their plans for the future.

Woodland project manager Mick Drury confirmed a wide range of ages had fun in the sun.

He said: “The weather was fine.

“There was a great atmosphere with music and crafts. Environmental charity Wild Things ran a nature stall. We threshed and ground grain we’ve grown. There was woodworking and walks. Visitors met ponies and alpacas plus there was catering by Forres Coffee House.

“Seeing old friends and welcoming new folk to see what we’re up to were my personal highlights!”

FFWF aims to restore woodlands, support local food sustainability and aid the mental and physical wellbeing of the community.

The charity looks after the Kennel Wood on the ridge to the south of Sanquhar pond; the adjacent Kennel Field where the horse stable is; and the Chapleton fields towards Chapleton Farm.

The community garden at Upper Chapleton Field started its first growing season with over 10 different types of fruits and vegetables. An adjacent childrens’ garden of smaller plots with 12 beds is teaching young participants about growing.

In the Kennel field, FFWF are growing a fruit orchard

Trustees and volunteers aid with tree planting, cleaning and clearing, and growing, amongst other activities.

“Our volunteer days continue,” added Mr Drury. “See forresfriends.com for details.

“And we’re hoping for funding for a garden ‘social hub’ from the next round of the Just Transition Participatory Budgeting Fund.”