A unique community tree nursery in Sherwood Forest is thriving after a successful first year thanks to the support of people, schools, groups, and a grant from Newark and Sherwood District Council.

Sherwood Seedbank, based at Feel Good Gardens in King’s Clipstone, is run by The Sherwood Forest Trust, a charity dedicated to conserving and restoring the ancient woodland.

The project aims to collect and grow native tree and plant seeds from Sherwood Forest and surrounding areas, and to involve local people and groups in planting and caring for them through volunteering sessions and community action days.

The trees are then used to enhance green spaces across the district and beyond.

Since its formal opening in October 2023, the seedbank has attracted more than 680 volunteers, including from schools and community groups, who have collected 40,000-plus seeds and planted over 2,000 trees. Another 4,300 trees are maturing on site, ready for planting in the near future.

The council awarded £93,000 to the trust from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which supports projects that boost economic growth and community and social action initiatives. The funding enabled community tree nursery officers to be employed and the purchase of nursery and planting equipment.

Trust chief executive Dr Patrick Candler said: “We are delighted with the progress we have made at Sherwood SeedBank, thanks to the generous support from the council and the enthusiasm of our volunteers. This project is not only helping to preserve and propagate the biodiversity of Sherwood Forest, but also to engage and educate people about the importance of trees and plants for our environment and wellbeing.

“We welcome anyone who wants to get involved in this exciting initiative and join us in creating a greener future for our district.”

Coun Matthew Spoors, portfolio holder for Sustainable Economic Development at the council, said: “Sherwood Seedbank is a fantastic example of how we can work together with local partners and communities to make a positive difference for our natural heritage and climate.

“We are committed to supporting projects that enhance our environment and promote sustainability, as part of our Green Agenda. We are proud to support The Sherwood Forest Trust and their valuable work at the seedbank, which is contributing to our goal of planting 100,000 trees across the district by 2027.”

Community groups and local people who want to get involved in the seedbank should go to https://sherwoodforest.org.uk/get-in-touch or the Sherwood Seedbank Facebook page.