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Sturtlebury Wood and Ponds Project

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Some 12 years ago we bought a piece of land adjacent to our existing paddocks. The land included some ponds below the woods you can see from the road. The ponds and streams were fed by springs which are abundant.

In the past the water running out of the railway tunnel cut a stream through some made up ground, we diverted it slightly and constructed a small waterfall to bring the water 'together'. The water was then diverted again into the top pond and from there cascades into the middle pond before emerging back into the stream and on to the lower pond, the overflow from which races down to The Avon.

The woods are not ancient ones and would have been severely restricted by the railway. Sadly, a large proportion is ash but there is a reasonable mix of other species to begin repopulation!

I have always loved the pond field and as the fencing was dreadful we didn't graze it, DWT newsletter suggested a fund supported by Devon AONB called 'Farming in Protected Landscapes'. We applied to improve fencing, create a path through the woods, erect nesting boxes, information signs and purchase a picnic bench as well as a few other minor works. After a few tweaks and an increased personal contribution we were successful with the bid and completed the works in March 2022.

The area is a good mix of habitats and wonderfully peaceful with a great view down to The Aune Valley.

As I said, I have always loved this small parcel of land and wanted to share it with others who enjoy peace and nature, wellbeing grows here!

It is open to the public Friday to Monday (incl) from 10am to 5pm and by arrangement outside those times, our Facebook page includes updates on timings and events as well some photos and comments. The land is accessed via a small car park and some new steps, the road entrance is beside the old railway bridge remains (on the Sorley side) we'd love to see you."

Adrian Masters  September 2022

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