May 2012
Hollybank Woods, Emsworth, Hampshire.
Chris Bain, Forester and Sculpturer in Residence.
Chris Bain is the Friends of Hollybank Woods Sculpturer in residence and Forester. Crafting wood sculptures from selected softwoods Chris creates bespoke artworks that capture the changing seasons and the wildlife of Hollybank Woods.
These sculptures are used to promote the woodland at events and shows throughout the year. A range of sculptures are available to purchase both through the website and at events and shows. Individual commissions are also undertaken by Chris ranging from a garden bench through to a life size wizzard!
Hollybank Woods forestry operation carefully manages the woodlands softwood to create habitat regeneration and materials for woodland crafts.
This autumn we will be offering a new range of courses and 'hands on' opportunities for people to learn more about sculpture, wood carving and rural crafts.
Emsworth Show, August Bank Holiday Monday 2011
Another popular and busy day at the Emsworth Show this year, lots of interest in and sales of Chris's carvings.
(PHOTO: AB) Unloading carvings at the Emsworth Show 2011.
(PHOTO: AB) Chris setting up at the Emsworth Show 2011.
(PHOTO: AB) Shane on carving placement duty!
(PHOTO: AB) Sun is out, everything in position, 10 minutes to show site opening!
Spring & Summer events
Saturday 26th May 2012
May Arts Day
2pm to 5pm
Hollybank Woods will be hosting a Tree Dressing as part of the 2012 Salisbury International Arts Festival.
Art produced by local school children will be used to dress one of Hollybank Woods Oak trees. Come and see the decorated Wishing Tree and add to it yourself as part of this community event.
Hollybank Woods Tree Dressing Day is part of the Salisbury International Arts Festival's Nature Of Art In Wessex. This is an innovative three year project using art to help people explore the nature on their doorstep.
Vist the website
Nature Of Art In Wessex
You will also be able to walk around the new Jubilee Plantation area and see the results of the Hollybank Woods project to create a new plantation in celebration of the Queen's Jubilee, and see the hundreds of trees planted in late February and early March this year by local school children.
Walks 2012
Walks and work groups meet at the top of Hollybank Lane by the notice board.
Forthcoming dates:
Spring & Summer walks
24th June
Folk lore & tree identification.
Leader: Jonathan Huet
6th July
(Evening event 8.30pm to 11.30pm)
Bats & Moths evening.
Leader: Mike Perry
14th July
Butterflies walk.
Leader: Mike Bridger
September (date to be set)
Fungus foray.
Leader: Rosemary Webb & Tim Crook
All Winter Work Party start at 10am and finish at 12 noon. Meet at the top of Hollybank Lane by the Friends of Hollybank Woods information board. All welcome. Woodland work tasks for all ages and abilities, from path clearing to litter picking. Children very welcome, but need to be accompanied by a responsible adult. Please wear sturdy footware/boots.
Work Party days run during the autumn and winter months. From April onwards, work days cease. This allows the nesting birds and breading animals the spring and summer months undisturbed.
During the Spring, Summer and Autumn there are monthly guided walks in the woodland. All walks start at the top of Hollybank Lane, meeting by the Friends of Hollybank Woods information
board. Walks last 2 hours and start at 10am finishing about midday. (With the exception of the Summer moth and bat evening which starts at 8pm and finishes at about 11pm.) All welcome. Children very welcome, but need to be accompanied by a responsible adult. Please wear sturdy footware/boots. All guided walks meet at the top of Hollybank Lane and are free to members (50p suggested donation from non members).
Friends of Hollybank Woods
About and how to join:
The Friends of Hollybank Woods are a group of local residents who formed in the Spring of 2001 to promote the protection of Hollybank Woods. The wood is owned by Havant Borough Council and managed on its behalf by the Friends of Hollybank Woods who organise regular work parties and themed walks run by local naturalists. The group formed a management committee and undertake well planned conservation work in the woods for the benefit of both wildlife and people using the woods.
There are lots of opportunities to get involved, not just for those who want to do practical work. We need your support!
To receive a Membership Application pack and become a Friend, please contact the Friends of Hollybank Woods membership secretary. Membership costs £1.50 for an adult and £3.00 for a family. Under 16's free.
Anna Williams
Membership Secretary
Friends of Hollybank Woods
Hollybank House
Emsworth
PO10 7UN
Telephone Anna on (01243) 375502
You can email us too, contact details are on the Blog page.
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