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JUBILEE RECOGNITION FOR DIBBINSDALE
Wirral Council is delighted that Dibbinsdale Local Nature Reserve has been chosen as part of a nationwide network of 70 Ancient Woodlands to be dedicated to The Queen in celebration of the Platinum Jubilee .
The Queen ’ s Green Canopy recently announced the network of Ancient Woodlands and Ancient Trees across the United Kingdom which will form part of the Ancient Canopy to celebrate Her Majesty ’ s 70 years of service .
The initiative was launched by His Royal Highness , the Prince of Wales , who is Patron of The Queen ’ s Green Canopy , under one of the Ancient Tree dedications – the old Sycamore located at Dumfries House in Scotland .
Dibbinsdale is Wirral ’ s largest ancient woodland and is not only classified as a Local Nature Reserve – in partnership with the adjacent Brotherton Park – it is also an Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland and a Site of Special Scientific Interest ( SSSI ).
Explaining why the council nominated Dibbinsdale for the recognition , the council ’ s Landscape Manager , Nicola Wallbank , said : “ Set within a picturesque valley that once acted as a boundary between Saxon and Viking settlers on the Wirral , Dibbinsdale is unique for its diversity of surrounding habitats resulting in an abundance of wildlife . Neighbouring habitats include wildflower meadows , reed swamps and historic parkland .
“ Dominated by a canopy of Oak , a visit to Dibbinsdale in Spring is not to be missed as anemones , bluebells , and celandines carpet the woodland floor . Home to an array of bird species , including tawny owls , woodpeckers , nuthatch , treecreepers , heron , kingfisher , skylark and partridge , not to mention the abundance of bats .
“ Fungi forays at Dibbinsdale are a delight for many in Autumn as are many other events run by the Friends of Dibbinsdale and Wirral Council rangers . It serves as a reminder that the entire peninsula was once a royal forest – the Forest of Wirral .”
Established over hundreds of years , the chosen woodlands and trees represent the diverse canopy of the four nations , it is a celebration of our living heritage . All the woodlands and trees have a story to tell . Some are famous specimens and others have a local significance .
These Ancient natural spaces hold significance and meaning for so many people in many different ways . They are symbols of community pride , places to connect socially and vital spaces for health and wellbeing activities .
By sharing the stories behind the Ancient woodlands and trees , as well as the incredible efforts that are made to protect them , The Queen ’ s Green Canopy aims to raise awareness of these treasured habitats and the importance of conserving them for future generations .
10 wirrallife . com