RIDDLESDEN and East Morton residents are being urged to help look after a natural “hidden gem” between the two villages.

They can get involved in efforts to maintain Saxilby Wood at Morton Banks, former site of the long-demolished Keighley and Bingley Joint Isolation Hospital.

The Forest of Bradford charity is holding consultation meetings with residents of housing estates immediately adjoining either side of the woodland.

The Forest of Bradford was commissioned to carry out public consultation by Bradford Council’s Trees and Woodland Service.

The charity works with communities across the district to create and manage woodland and open spaces, including initiatives such as bio-energy, food supply, biodiversity, social enterprises and flood prevention Forest of Bradford worker Shaun O’Hare said the aim was to understand what was most important to local residents and other users of the wood.

He described the wood is a hidden gem and said there had already been a good response from local residents.

He said: “The majority of comments made so far are very positive with some good suggestions about improvements and new initiatives to make the woodland more appealing.

“This includes improved access, but first and foremost that the site remains a healthy tranquil woodland.”

Mr O’Hare said nearby neighbourhoods had developed a close relationship with the environmental, cultural and historical significance of Saxilby Wood.

His added: “We want to ensure a future Management Plans acknowledges this and where appropriate offers opportunity for individuals and organised groups to further develop their interests in the woodland.

“An opportunity to work with others and research the history of the site is of particular interest to many of the residents who have contributed to the consultation.

“This includes looking at the name of the woodland and exploring ideas for a name which may be more significant to the woodland, environs and its history"

Street corner discussions have been held over the past few days, and there will be more on Wednesday November 25 from 3pm to 4.30pm at Roedhelm Road and Saxilby Road, and on December 5 from 2pm to 3.30pm at Branby Avenue and Astwick Close.

There will be a Festive Forest School on December 21, from 1pm to 3pm to make festive wreaths and cook campfire hot chocolate.

There will be an open day at the Woods in January, hosted by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and Forest of Bradford to share the findings of the consultation.

People can submit their views online at surveymonkey.com/r/FYRZWQT.