Volunteers brave cold for annual 'Rhody Roundup' (From Your Local Guardian)

Volunteers brave cold for annual 'Rhody Roundup' in Banstead

8:30am Tuesday 7th February 2012 in Epsom By Lauren May

Ice and snow didn’t get in the way of hardy volunteers this weekend who had gathered for the annual ‘rhody round up’ in Banstead Woods.

Dozens of volunteers braved the cold on Sunday, February 5, arriving at the Reigate and Banstead Park Farm Depot in Banstead to clear ‘invasive’ rhododendrons from the Banstead woodland.

The removal of the Rhododendron, which competes with native species and can grow to a great height blocking out light, is an important part of woodland management and if not controlled can lead to the loss of woodland animals and butterflies.

After working hard, volunteers warmed up with a well deserved cup of tea.

To find out more about the Downlands Project and volunteering visit downlandsproject.org .uk, email downlands@surreycc.gov.uk or call 01737 737700.