One step at a time for new recruits
Newly recruited apprentices from Western Power Distribution (WPD) have been on a steep learning curve this week at Chapel Wood nature reserve near Braunton in Devon.
Thirty six apprentices from the local electricity company have been redeveloping over 200 steps at the RSPB owned site to improve access and safety at the woodland site.
Chapel Wood is sited on a steep hillside, crowned by an Iron-Age hill fort with a stream running down either side. It is home to a variety of birds including tawny owls, nuthatches and great spotted and green woodpeckers.
Nigel Worth, a jointer for WPD and volunteer at the RSPB site said: ‘This is a lovely place for visitors to explore and discover but because of its steep location, access has been limited for some time, therefore the work our apprentices have done this week will open it up for people to enjoy once again.’
Malcolm Davies, Warden for the RSPB Reserve commented: ‘Chapel Wood, one of the RSPB's oldest nature reserves, is a real gem. The work that Nigel Worth, his colleagues and the apprentices from Western Power Distribution have done this week to improve access on site is absolutely brilliant and will really enhance the visitor's experience of this unique woodland reserve. We also hope that that the apprentices have gained valuable experience from this, and hopefully we'll see them return to use the site themselves in future.’
October 2008