A community project led by Richmond Rotary Club has helped improve facilities at Round Howe woodland walk in Richmond.
The scheme has seen new picnic areas and woodland-themed sculptures installed at the popular beauty spot after funding was secured through the National Highways Community Legacy Fund.
Colin Grant, who initiated the project, said the work aimed to revitalise an area where older woodland sculptures had deteriorated over time.
He said: “I am really pleased with the outcome of this community project.
“Some time ago, the club was asked to see if we could improve Round Howe Wood, which had some 15-year-old woodland sculptures that had seen better days.
“This is a picnic area, but visitors had few facilities to attract them to stay for a picnic.
“I am very grateful to everybody who helped to make this Rotary project a reality.”
A total of £10,000 was secured for the improvements through the National Highways fund linked to the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine project.
The woodland now features two bespoke oak picnic tables created by Military Craftsmanship, with York stone bases produced by Staley Stone Work.
Wooden toadstools and animal sculptures were also added, created by award-winning chainsaw artist Sam Bowsher from Moffat.
Installation work was carried out by Rotary Club members alongside volunteers from the British Gurkhas and Nepalese Community in Catterick and Darlington.
Martin Collinson said the organisation was pleased to support the project.
He said: “We’re absolutely delighted to support these improvements at Round Howe Wood through our Community Legacy Fund, connected to the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine project.
“It’s fantastic to see this investment creating a welcoming, enjoyable space for the whole community.”
John Morton added: “This is yet another example of Richmond Rotary Club making a big contribution to Richmond and we are very grateful to Colin Grant and the team for all their work installing the stone bases and tables which were built locally.”
