Woodland paths open again after completion of forestry works

Storm-proofing results in removal of 2,000 tonnes of timber

A popular woodland trail has reopened after a forestry operation to storm-proof the area.

Around 2,000 tonnes of timber has been removed from Moncrieffe Hill Wood, near Perth, since the summer.

The Woodland Trust said the aim was to clear a windswept part of the site, leaving it less susceptible.

Thinning has left room for remaining trees to grow and will let light in to plants on the ground.

The area will now be fenced off to keep deer from eating the new young trees, and native saplings will be planted next year.

A trust spokesman said: “The track upgrade has also been completed to improve the muddy section of path on the green marked route.

“We thank everyone who enjoys the wood for their patience during these works, when some path closures were necessary.”

He added: “The wood now has enhanced habitat and is in good condition to face future storms.”

Moncrieffe Hill is one of 60 sites across Scotland managed by the charity.

It is one of Scotland’s most popular walking routes and differs from other British hills because the routes to the summit – known as Moredun Top – are almost entirely under tree cover.

This year, Moncrieffe Hill has been giving up its secrets as part of an archeological dig.

A team of staff and volunteers from the Tay Landscape Partnership have been unearthing the impressive iron age Moredun Top hill fort, which was an important power centre and likely to have been occupied for hundreds of years.

This year the team have been excavating the interiors to find out what the hill fort was used for.

The trust, which was established in 1972 and has more than 500,000 supporters, took on its first Scottish wood in 1984 and now looks after nearly 20,000 acres across the country.

Trustees recently announced the results of its tree of the year competition.

The winner was the Ding Dong copper beech in the grounds of Prestonpans Primary School in East Lothian, which beat competition from the Birnam Oak and the mighty oak at Dunkeld.

We thank everyone who enjoys the wood for their patience during the works, when some path closures were necessary. WOODLAND TRUST SPOKESMAN

Work storm-proofing Moncrieffe Hill Wood is now complete and the paths have reopened.