SOUTH West Lakes Trust received a prestigious environmental award last week.

David Ogg, group manager for the Independent Forestry Group certification scheme, visited Roadford Lake and verified that the woodland management is in accordance with the strict international environmental, social and economic criteria, as laid down by the Forest Stewardship Council.

He said: ?I am very impressed with the responsible attitude taken by both South West Lakes Trust and their woodland adviser Mike Box of Forest and Land Management.

?Both the Roadford and Burrator forests are excellent examples of sound forest management incorporating a positive approach to public access and environmental issues.?

Evelyn Stacey, director of South West Lakes Trust said: ?We are very pleased indeed to be awarded this certificate of membership of the group scheme, for both the Roadford and Burrator forests, and to receive confirmation that our operations are in line with best forest practice.?