LOCAL environmental charity South West Lakes Trust played host to the Royal Forestry Society as part of the society?s annual study tour which this year brought them to Devon.

Forestry experts from all over the UK spent time viewing the 80 hectare forest which was planted three years ago. 95% of the trees planted have survived, which is a phenomenal success rate.

Tree expert Mike Box, of Forest and Land Management, explained to delegates how the forest had been planned to complement 150,000 native broadleaf trees planted by South West Water at the lake in 1990.

He talked about the challenges of planting more than 100,000 trees by hand in a three-month period in exceptionally wet conditions.

South West Lakes Trust?s director, Evelyn Stacey, said: ?We are very honoured to have been visited by the society, and to have the opportunity to explain our vision for the forest to such a knowledgeable audience.

?The linking of the forest with our Countryside Stewardship project, where we are laying over 5,000 metres of hedge and repairing a similar amount of banks, planting an orchard with native fruit trees and grazing for conservation was also explained.?

Jim Skelton, director of the South West Forest Project who accompanied the visitors, said ?The Roadford forest is a great success and its amenity use by walkers and cyclists is growing.

?The Royal Forestry Society members were very impressed with this imaginative project, presented a certificate to South West Lakes Trust to commemorate their visit and wished them every success for the future.

?The Trust should be very proud of their achievements.?

The South West Wood Fair takes place at Roadford Lake on July 12.