Cranbrook's conservation efforts recognised with another award

Cranbrook Town Council has received the Saving Devon’s Treescapes Award in recognition of its community’s local conservation efforts.

This is the second prestigious recognition the town has earned for its commitment to nature and conservation, after its country park received the Green Flag Award in July 2024.

The Saving Devon’s Treescapes Award was established by Devon Wildlife Trust to recognise the great efforts and hard work done by local groups, parishes, and organisations within Devon to make local treescapes more resilient for the future.

The council hosts a regular volunteer session every Friday in the country park, which engages the community in activities such as planting trees and wildflower meadows. 

The park also serves as a venue for schools and youth group sessions, which involve tree walks and creating wildflower meadows.

The council’s Ranger collaborates closely with stakeholders, including Devon Wildlife Trust, which provided the town with many locally sourced trees as part of the Saving Devon’s Treescapes campaign.

Devon Wildlife Trust’s Free Tree Hub and guided tree walks have been especially popular, attracting participants from both the local area and farther afield.

They are also collaborating with the North Devon Biosphere and Devon County Council’s Woodland Creation Officer on a project aimed at creating more woodlands.

Councillor Les Bayliss, Chairman of Cranbrook Town Council, said: “We are thrilled to receive the Saving Devon's Treescapes Award. Trees are important for biodiversity conservation and carbon sequestration. They improve our health and wellbeing. They are also a key part of our heritage and culture. 

“With beautiful treescapes in our Cranbrook Country Park and nature reserve, it is imperative that we protect them and make them more resilient for the future. I extend my sincere thanks to the Town Council staff and volunteers who have dedicated their time and efforts to nature conservation.”