VOLUNTEERS are helping a Keighley landowner open up his private woods to local residents.

Regeneration group Keighley Big Local is supporting Greg Hoyle as he carries out woodland management in the grounds of the former country house at Hainworth Wood.

Big Local coordinator Shaun O’Hare said: “For many years the 2.5 acre wood was under-managed and gained a reputation for anti-social behaviour. It became something of a no go area.

“Although it is a private woodland Greg is keen for residents to make use of it and hopefully play a part in enhancing it. It is interesting deciduous woodland with excellent prospects for recreation and small-scale woodland management.”

Mr Hoyle suggested people could walk their dogs in the woods responsibly, report anti-social behaviour or pick up any litter they find.

He said: “Simple actions will go a long way. My aim is carry out works which not only benefit the woodland but have a wider social impact. Everyone benefits, and that’s where the guidance and support from Big Local is invaluable.”

Big Local is a regeneration programme run by residents and communities along the ‘Keighley Valley’, stretching from Stockbridge to Ingrow.

It is attracting £1 million of lottery money over a ten-year period for dozens of activities to improve life for the various neighbourhoods.

Mr O’Hare said that recent activity in Hainworth Wood had seen the removal of huge amounts of fly tipping, eradication of invasive species, and planting of native shrubs.

He said the “huge improvement” was achieved through lots of voluntary effort from groups and individuals.

Mr O’Hare added: “Over the coming years Keighley Big Local will be supporting Greg in the delivery of a management plan that promotes community use but not at the expense of the woodland biodiversity.

“By creating this new asset, we are committed to giving future generations something better than we inherited. We want the woodland to reach its full potential as an environmental and community resource.”

The Forest of Bradford is hosting three environmental taster days on May 3, 10 and 17, involving dry stone walling, bamboo management and the thinning of existing trees.

Anyone wishing to take part should meet at 1pm each day at Ingrow Cricket ground.

Email admin@keighleybiglocal.org.uk to find out how to get involved in the Hainworth Wood project.

The wood occupies a north-facing slope above the outskirts of Keighley, giving wide views over the town and on to Rombalds Moor beyond.