Sunday 6 July marked a milestone for local nature lovers as Essex Wildlife Trust welcomed supporters to Fir Tree Wood within the Danbury Ridge nature reserves – one year since the woodlands was saved for wildlife, thanks to the power of community funding. 

To mark the first anniversary of the land’s protection, the Trust hosted an open celebration at their newest reserve. Visitors enjoyed guided walks through the ancient woodland, cakes and refreshments – a gesture of thanks to the community who made this possible. 

In 2024, a partnership between the Trust and Little Baddow Parish Council helped to raise over £200,000 to secure the future of this woodland. Located in the centre of  Essex, in Little Baddow, Chelmsford, Fir Tree Wood is now protected as a haven for wildlife and place for people to connect with nature. 

The celebration was a chance to reflect on what has been achieved, and to inspire continued support for local wild places.

Bec Sheppard, Head of Fundraising for Essex Wildlife Trust, says: 

“This celebratory event was a wonderful opportunity for us to connect with the local community and to personally thank them for their incredible support during our fundraising appeal for Fir Tree Wood. Their generosity has helped make this beautiful woodland part of our nature reserve network. A huge thank you as well to everyone who has helped organise the day – it was a fantastic way to mark this special moment.”

Visit Fir Tree Wood and follow the Danbury Ridge nature trail