OSWESTRY Community Plantation held their first meeting last weekend, to discuss a plan of action for the proposed plantation.

The public meeting, held on Saturday, January 25,was to consult with residents on where the proposed plantation should be sited and what services should be offered.

The event was the first in a series of public and private consultation events that will shape the bid for money to acquire or adopt land and was well attended by local residents, environmental campaigners, land managers, and organisations such as Shropshire Wildlife Trust.

At the meeting, participants expressed their desire to see new woodland close and accessible to Oswestry.

They identified a desire for new forestry to serve a range of community purposes, not just for conservation.

Chris Hillcox, one of the main backers for the project, said, the number of people at the meeting showed there was large support for more woodlaqnd in the area.

"The turnout shows that there is a clear desire for more woodland close to Oswestry," said Mr Hillcox. "But this isn't a surprise given the town council's support for 17,000 new trees.

"Conservation and climate change is just one reason for proposing to create new woodland.

"Residents have told us that they want to see woodland that gives social value, whether that be through providing a space for out door learning, rehabilitation or a local enterprise."

Meanwhile Oswestry town councillor Olly Rose added: "It is great to see the enthusiasm and knowledge here today . I hope that we will be able to work together to make progress in planting trees locally."

After consulting more widely with the community, Chris and other backers plan to draw up concrete plans for project.

The first phase of the consultation process will run until March 30 and anyone wishing to have their say on plans to create a community plantation for Oswestry should email Chris at chrishillcox1@hotmail.com