Arboretum’s fun and informative event in Kennaway House was enjoyed by many

Sidmouth Herald: Sid Vale Choir at Sidmouth Arboretum's celebration of treesSid Vale Choir at Sidmouth Arboretum's celebration of trees (Image: Archant)

A celebration of the Sid Valley’s wonderful woodlands was deemed a tree-mendous success as people flocked to enjoy a fun and informative evening.

The threat of the grey squirrel, flood risk reduction and an increase in tree diseases were just some of the topics covered at the event, where visitors also enjoyed songs from the Sid Vale Folk Choir.

Sidmouth Arboretum hosted the event in the Cellar Bar of Kennaway House on Friday (November 25) to mark the start of National Tree Week and has revealed plans to make it an annual fixture.

Chair of Sidmouth Arboretum Diana East said: “There was an excellent turnout on a cold, dry November night. Jeremy Woodward welcomed visitors to this open and free event with songs from Sid Vale Folk Choir. There followed a lively mix of speakers and stalls to visit in between short talks.” She added thanks to the many sponsors.

Highlights included a talk by John Wilding, forester and manager of Clinton Devon woodlands, who mentioned the increase in pests and diseases of trees and, above all, the threat of grey squirrels to growing commercial timber.

The Sid Vale Association’s Richard Huntington described the activities of its woodlands and estates section, while Kate Tobin outlined grants available from the Forestry Commission.

Laura Goble, East Devon District Council’s trainee countryside warden, outlined the role trees play in reducing flood risk and there was a tree quiz and raffle.