If you go down to the woods in May...

After what has seemed like months of cold winds and driving rain, weather forecasters are hinting that Spring may be with us in May, at long last.

The message from the Tree Council, the UK’s lead charity for promoting the importance of trees and woodland, is ‘Change your View’ with a Walk in the Woods during May.

It’s time to stop burying ourselves in winter woollies. May is the time to look up and see what’s happening around us; the sap is rising, buds are bursting, days are lengthening and soon our woodlands will be alive with wild flowers and creatures coming out of hibernation.

“There is nothing quite so uplifting as witnessing all that at first hand,” said Pauline Buchanan Black, Director-General of The Tree Council. “There are walks and activities to suit everyone, being organised by people all over the country in both urban and rural woodlands”.

Ancient trees

You can ‘Change your View’ with the help of the East Devon District Council Countryside team at their annual Bluebell Day celebrations on Saturday 4 May between 10am and 4pm. Come along and take in the beauty of the ancient trees and swathes of bluebells at Holyford Woods near Colyford.

Walk in the woods with the EDDC rangers and members of the Holyford Woodland Trust – with their experience and knowledge, you’ll notice all sorts of hidden treasures you’ve not spotted before, and learn to appreciate the sounds and smells of a stunning area of woodland.

This free event promises fun for all the family – as well as guided walks there will be a range of craft stalls, wildlife activities, cream teas and entertainment by local jazz band Swing of the Axe.

There is no vehicular access or parking at Holyford Woods, so please use free parking at Colyford Memorial Hall, where a free shuttle bus will operate throughout the day.