The Noise turning back the clock in Jubilee Clearing

We know that many local members of KWAG recall with affection their time camping in Penpole Wood when it was used by Bristol Scout troops between 1937 and 1947. The accompanying, atmospheric, image of Penpole Wood (right) shows shows it in the final year of operation as the District camp. During the period we understand that ‘Jubilee Clearing’ in Penpole Wood offered the most choice location to pitch your tent. The area had, until recent efforts, almost vanished into the woodland.

On 2nd May this year a large group of The Noise volunteers from Christian groups around Bristol came to Penpole Woods and commenced on the clearance of the old camp area. As with much of Penpole Wood, since the Second World War it has become largely unmanaged and overgrown. The recent work has restored a sense of openness to the area once more, and the Victorian specimen conifers – Coastal Redwood and Morinda Spruce –  planted around its edges can now be seen to their full effect. (Find out more about these historic trees on our Tree Trail). It is hoped that the Clearing will offer different habitats to the main woodland area and that the clearing will add to the biodiversity of the estate. Volunteers also took up the challenge to clear dumped rubbish in the lower area of Penpole Wood behind Mancroft Avenue, making a huge impact on the amenity of the area.

We owe all the volunteers who made this project happen a huge debt of gratitude, and we’re sure that everyone who remembers Jubilee Clearing in its former condition will join us in thanks to The Noise. It was also wonderful to see young people getting so involved in the restoration project and clearly having as much enjoyment from it as the Scouts would once have had.