A GROUP which wants to recreate part of the ancient woodland that once stretched across the countryside near Malvern is holding its first AGM next week.

Malvern Community Forest now has more than 50 members, plus over 240 people on its Facebook group, and has now been recognised by the tax authorities as a charity, allowing it to claim Gift Aid.

It was set up by local people who want to acquire land to recreate the Malvern Chase, a large area of ancient forest administered from Hanley Castle several hundred years ago.

Phil Hopkinson, chairman of the group, said: "Although locals have the superb Hills giving access to many walks, and which provides work for many local farmers and small businesses as well as grazing for cattle, there isn’t a large area of flat woodland which would benefit the local community both for recreation and the provision of timber resource for construction, furniture and garden products, and a managed source of biofuels for local people."

It is in discussion with the county and district councils and Malvern Hills Conservators.

The group at received pledges for over 2,000 trees from local business, and is seeking more funding and help.

More details can be found on www.malverncommunityforest.org.uk. Mr Hopkinson, can be contacted on 01684 574865 or pahoppy@btinternet.com.

The AGM is at the Great Malvern Hotel, Graham Road, on Tuesday, November 17, at 7.30pm.