Erewash Borough Council leader James Dawson has been accompanied by a fellow councillor who dazzled him with his spadework – while helping to plant a new wood at the borough’s latest nature reserve.
Councillor Harrison Broadhurst grabbed the shovel to put a young oak in place as a delegation from Ilkeston Town Hall went to see the superb work of local people helping to turn the old Pewit municipal golf course into a wildlife haven.
The residents – seen in hi-vis vests – are volunteer tree wardens. They have been busy planting the first of some 1,500 saplings.
Both Councillor Harrison and Councillor Dave Snaith, who both represent the Ilkeston ward of Little Hallam, were at the ceremony.
The planting comes amid a hive of activity at what is called Pewit Coronation Meadows Local Nature Reserve – where bee and butterfly banks have been constructed.
They will be sown with nectar-rich plants such as bird’s foot trefoil in early spring. New pathways have also been built – and benches installed.
Councillor Mark Alfrey, Lead Member for the Environment, said: "With the new nature reserve at Pewit really starting to take shape, people can see what a fantastic amenity it is going to be. The wooded area will be amazing – and the council’s heartfelt thanks go to our volunteer tree wardens for the tremendous work they are putting in.
“The great progress that is being made by the council’s own teams is down to such selfless individuals each playing a key role. We are grateful for every bit of help – because as the famous saying goes: "From small acorns, mighty oak trees grow.”
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