WORK to improve an important nature reserve is to continue at Tiddesley Wood, Pershore.

Following coppicing work last month, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust is re-widening the main ride through the woodland and felling an area of conifers in the eastern part of the wood. The work is essential to ensure the longterm quality of the woodland and the survival of the rare woodland plants and animals it supports.

Rob Allen, conservation officer for the wood, said: “Research has shown that the most woodland diversity occurs in the first 10 metres of woodland edge. This is due to the light and warmth that is able to reach the ground here.

“The main ride through the wood is cleared on a cycle of about six years to help maintain perfect conditions for the butterflies, bees and other insects that rely on the plants that flower here to survive.

“By ensuring the rides in the wood are opened up regularly we’ll be helping flowers such as the common spotted orchid and butterflies like the uncommon silver-washed fritillary whose caterpillars need common dog violets to feed on. The violets will only flower if sunlight can reach the ground, which is why this work is so important.”

Mr Allen said where the conifers were cleared native oaks and a thick band of scrubby trees would be planted to provide improved wildlife opportunities for food and shelter as well as allowing natural regeneration of existing species.

For more information about the work of Worcestershire Wildlife Trust visit worcs wildlifetrust.co.uk.

For information about volunteering at Tiddesley Wood contact Anna Bunney, volunteer co-ordinator, on 01905 754919 or anna@worcsshire wildlifetrust.org