Children from Gunnislake can now enjoy a living play facility thanks to a generous donation of native shrubs from the Woodland Trust.

The new shrubs were planted in the fun facility at Foster’s Field by budding gardeners from Gunnislake Primary Academy.

Members of Gunnislake Community Matters have worked with Cornwall Council and Calstock Parish Council to identify space at Foster’s Field, next door to the school. They also cared for the shrubs and designed the ‘wiggly hedge’ and den. The 21 pupils had the help of volunteers from the community and also from local employer, Ginsters of Callington. They did measurements, identified the shrubs and helped slit plant them. Canes and plastic covers now protect the young plants of dogwood, hazel, hawthorn, cherry and rowan.

The whole project was the brainchild of Jane Ridsdill of GCM who spotted the Woodland Trust free offer.

‘We hope the village children will now keep an eye on their planting efforts as they grow’, said Jane Ridsdill of GCM. ‘And as time goes by we will be showing them how they are cared for and kept in good shape. They will also be able to spot the wildlife that will also enjoy the shrubs.

‘Eventually, future generations will be able to have fun and games running in and out of the wiggle hedge and den. I might even join in myself!’