Lottery joy for green groups

The Dunnington nature project is among 79 environmental projects run by community groups in Yorkshire and the Humber to gain money through the Awards for All programme. Together, the projects will receive £658,802 in Lottery money.

The Friends of Hagg Wood, near Dunnington, have been awarded £5,560 to turn four bomb craters from the Second World War into wildlife habitats. Working with ecological experts, the team of volunteers will make the holes safe and clear an ancient lake within the wood area. Alan Briers, on behalf of The Friends of Hagg Wood, said: “Hagg Wood will now, thanks to Awards for All, be able to show off its hidden corners that have historical and wildlife value. The bomb craters will be cleared in a sensitive manner and a discreet path will be provided from the main tracks. An expert has provided us with clear guidelines so that the ancient pond is tidied up in a way that will encourage more plants and wildlife. The grant will also enable us to design and publish an information leaflet so that visitors are able to enjoy these aspects of our community wood.”

The craters were created when a French bomber plane dumped its load of explosives as it approached Elvington Airfield.

Meanwhile, the Friends of Clifton Backies Local Nature Reserve in York will shortly start developing a nature trail at Clifton Backies after they were awarded £625.

The Carlton Miniott Playing Field Association, near Thirsk, was awarded £10,000 which it plans to use on making a modern play area, including swings and roundabouts. Paul Jones, Big Lottery Fund head of region for Yorkshire and the Humber, said: “A range of community groups across Yorkshire and the Humber are benefiting from funding today through the Awards for All programme for activities that give people of all ages the opportunity to get involved in outdoor activities. I’d like to wish everyone all the best for the projects they’re planning.”