Coed-Y-Bont volunteers mark 10 years of woodland care

The Coed-Y-Bont volunteers will mark their 10th anniversary on April 12, recognising their diligent care for the community woodland at Pontrhyfendigaid.

The woodland came under the trusteeship of the Coed Y Bont Community Woodland Association on April 12, 2014, with the great help of the then Forestry Commission Wales and, later, Natural Resources Wales.

Originally consisting of a 25-hectare area, the first task was to create a smooth surface suitable for walkers and wheelchair users - the beginning of making the woodland accessible to all. This was done by clearing stones from the forestry track.

The Coed Y Bont woodland now boasts a wildlife watching hide, wooden carvings and information boards, bridges and culverts, fencing, and a picnic area with benches. Volunteers also crafted new paths, trimmed back undergrowth, and cleared ponds to foster wildlife.

Volunteers in 2014 with the first bench ready for installation at Coed-y-Bont (Image: Coed-y-Bont volunteers)

Located on the outskirts of Pontrhydfendigaid, Coed Y Bont comprises two conjoined woods, Coed Dolgoed and Coed Cnwch. These woodlands hold historical significance, once forming part of the grounds of the Cistercian abbey of Strata Florida, one of the largest abbeys in Britain.

Owain Edwards, a dedicated volunteer, said: "I really enjoy working in the woodland. I look forward to our volunteer sessions.

"I was at the very first session with my father on the weekend of 12th and 13th April 2014.

" I think all of us, past and present, deserve credit for our hard work and what we have achieved over the years. Coed Y Bont is now a busy, much-visited woodland."

He added: "I think that shows that our efforts have all been worthwhile."

The woodland has garnered several awards over the years, including a 'Highly Commended' Award from the Countryside Management Association and repeated receipt of the Green Flag Community Award. It was even selected as one of the 14 sites for the initiation of a new National Forest across Wales.

The volunteers' work has amplified the variety of habitats and species in the area whilst enhancing access for both local people and visitors. The dedicated volunteers also organise conservation days and seasonal guided walks.

Community members meet every third Sunday from 10.30am to 12.30pm to maintain the area.

Stella Dart, a Pontrhydfendigaid resident, said: "Everyone is made so welcome, and I thoroughly enjoy the sessions.

"We undertake a wide range of tasks, and you don’t have to have any special skill, only a willingness to take part".

Besides preserving the woodland, the Coed Y Bont Community Woodland Association spearheads a 100Club to fundraise for the woodland. The proceeds from ticket sales are utilised to purchase insurance, materials, and tools for woodland maintenance activities.