Friends of Crich Chase
Support the Friends of Crich Chase and help protect ancient woodlands
Fundraising for Derbyshire Wildlife Trust
Story
Please note -
14/11/22: Friends of Crich Chase would like to sincerely thank everyone who has supported our campaign to buy the woods.
The woodlands have now been bought by a private landowner who, we understand, has a genuine interest in ecology and is planning to conserve the woods and continue to allow community access to them.
Whilst we were a long way from achieving our specific goal of putting the wood in the hands of Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, our campaign has raised a lot of interest and publicity. Based on the information shared with us, we believe that the nature of this sale is a really positive outcome, putting the woodland in good hands.
As a result, FOCC are closing this appeal.
Derbyshire Wildlife Trust (DWT) has been our partner in this appeal. The donations you have made have been received by them and set aside towards the potential land purchase.
With the appeal closing, supporters now have two options. You can request a donation refund direct from DWT by emailing enquiries@derbyshirewt.co.uk
To those who donated anonymously, please can you share proof with the DWT, either aJust Giving receipt (that you will have received after you donated) or a screen shot of your bank payment.
Alternatively, your donation can be redirected to benefit local nature. FOCC have agreed with the trust that any donations retained will be used to benefit the Derwent Valley Living Landscape, which is the designation used for our local area. This includes reserves that you may already know, such as Rose End Meadows, Cromford Canal and Lea Wood.
Much like our own plans for Crich Chase, Lea Wood was originally purchased by the local community and was gifted to the trust in 2012. It is a beautiful ancient woodland carpeted with bluebells and wild daffodils in spring, and home to an abundance of fungi at this time of year. Footpath’s around the site are currently being renovated and a sculpture trail being put in.
The trust is also exploring further land purchase options to further connect the local natural landscape.
If you would like your donation to be used in this way you don’t need to do anything. The funds will be moved across in 8 weeks’ time, which will be Friday 6th January 2023.
Thank you again for your support. We are proud to be part of such a generous and active local community. We would also ask that you spread the word as widely as possible to reach any donators who are not on social media.
22/10/22: due to some anticipated news about the ownership of the woodland, we have made a decision to cease accepting donations for the campaign at this stage. This may be temporary or permanent. We continue to keep a close eye on the situation and as soon as we have a clear picture we will communicate accordingly.
We have launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise money so Derbyshire Wildlife Trust can purchase an important local woodland.
The 182 acre site was recently put up for sale and we want to raise the £720,000 to buy it and help Derbyshire Wildlife Trust in its management and care. We are concerned that otherwise a private buyer could change or restrict the informal access that the local community and visitors to the area currently enjoy.
This ancient woodland is a refuge for both wildlife and people. Thousands of different plants, animals and birds live and thrive in Crich Chase woods. It is especially important for insects and woodland fungi and many birds of conservation concern including the lesser spotted woodpecker, woodcock, willow tit, tree pipit and lesser redpoll.
It holds a special place in our hearts and we rely on it more than ever. The woods with their scented bluebells and birdsong in spring, dappled summer shade and rich autumn colours are a balm to the senses and the soul. They have played a crucial role in our mental and physical health especially in the last two years. It’s unthinkable that our children could grow up not enjoying their own adventures here.
The ancient woodland has a history dating back to Medieval times and is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It is one of the largest and most diverse ancient semi-natural woodlands remaining in the Derwent Valley. Within the woodland are scrubby areas and grassy clearings, making a rich mosaic of habitats for fungi, reptiles, mammals, butterflies and insects, with buzzards often seen soaring overhead.
Our mission, with the support of the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, is to secure its future for generations to come.
At this asking price, with roughly 18,000 trees in the wood, EACH TREE IS VALUED AT £40.
How do you value your favourite tree?
Can you donate enough for a copse?
Or a few branches, a twig or a leaf?
All donations to the appeal will be put towards the purchase of Crich Chase Woodland. Should we fail in our endeavour to raise sufficient funds to purchase the wood, or if the wood is sold to another buyer, an announcement will be made on the Just Giving page and Derbyshire Wildlife Trust will return donations on request.