New partnership between Screwfix and Woodland Trust

It comes as Screwfix announced a new three-year partnership with the Woodland Trust.

The collaboration aims to support Kingsettle Wood near Shaftesbury.

The project will support long-term conservation and help improve biodiversity and ecological resilience.

Sam Hamer, site manager at the Woodland Trust, said: “Kingsettle Wood is a precious ancient woodland that had been altered by past planting of non-native species, threatening to lose its biodiversity forever.

Screwfix has announced a new three-year partnership with the Woodland Trust to support the restoration and long-term protection of Kingsettle Wood, an ancient woodland of significant environmental and heritage value near Shaftesbury in Dorset. (Image: McCANN)

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“Thanks to Screwfix’s continued partnership, we’ve been able to carry out careful management that protects the historic character of the site while creating a more diverse and resilient habitat for wildlife.

“Their support has made a real difference on the ground, helping us restore this special place for future generations to enjoy.”

Ancient woodland covers just 2.5 per cent of the UK and is one of the country’s most threatened habitats.

Such woodlands are vital for wildlife, carbon storage, soil health, and natural flood management.

Screwfix has supported the Woodland Trust since 2022.

Its funding has helped manage Kingsettle Wood, a 21-hectare site.

Work to date has focused on thinning dense beech stands to increase light on the forest floor and encourage the return of native species.

Felled beech trunks have also been repurposed to create wildlife habitats.

The new partnership will fund further restoration, helping to reverse historical damage and ensure the woodland’s long-term survival.

Mr Hamer said: “We are incredibly grateful to Screwfix for their long-term commitment.

“Partnerships like this allow us to protect and restore irreplaceable ancient woodland, delivering benefits for nature, people, and the wider environment.

“Kingsettle Wood is thriving as a result, and we look forward to continuing this successful collaboration.”

Max Britten, managing director of Screwfix UK and ROI, said: “Since 2022, Screwfix has partnered with the Woodland Trust to support their vital work protecting nature, restoring woodland, and supporting wildlife across the UK.

“We’re proud to be continuing that support through an exciting new three-year partnership.”

Kingsettle Wood remains open to the public.