Tarvin Woodland 15th Green Flag

Our 15th Green Flag Award.

It was always Jim Grogan’s ambition that the woodland that he began would be considered worthy of the quality-mark for volunteer-run open spaces – then a Green Pennant. It was in 2010 that the Trustees first entered for the award. Jim became ill before the award for our woodland was announced, so that he could not be present when the Pennant was awarded to us by the local M.P., then Stephen O’Brien. However, the ceremony was videoed and he enjoyed watching as “his” woodland was acknowledged to be amongst the very best in the country. Following Jim’s death and his funeral (which was officially attended by the Lord Mayor of Chester, Councillor Neil Ritchie) early in 2011, the Trustees felt it incumbent on them to maintain the standard that Jim had established and so, with some trepidation, we applied for the (re-named) Green Flag (Community) Award. There was a great deal of celebration when the woodland received the award again!

Year by year, we have re-applied and, each time, we have received favourable outcomes from the assessors, together with helpful comments on our woodland and its maintenance from folk who are truly objective observers. These have enabled us to achieve scores in the assessment that have climbed higher and higher until, recently, they have been over 80%, meaning that the next-year’s application could be made free of any charge!

Our award this year is the 15th consecutive one that Tarvin’s woodland has achieved! The photo shows our Treasurer, John Daines, receiving the award in York earlier this month. The plaque is now attached to the gate giving entry to the Saxon Heath woodland at Broomheath Lane. Jim’s ambition was to have a COMMUNITY woodland in Tarvin and his motto for it was (and still is) that our woodland is “Created by the community for the community”. Trustees know how much the village values its woodland and these awards serve, amongst other things, to give a “pat on the back” to the group of hard-working and committed volunteers who, week in and week out, strive to maintain the high standard established by Jim Grogan. If you have a few hours to spare occasionally (or even each week), do come and join our happy band of helpers. No prior knowledge is expected, full training will be given, no dangerous work will be undertaken and an enjoyable time is guaranteed! You can make contact with us by emailing charlestbradley@btinternet.com or phoning Tarvin (01829) 741172.