While we were coming back from the New Forest in the Summer last year, we stumbled on Furzey Gardens https://www.minsteadtrust.org.uk/pages/category/furzey-gardens, almost by accident. Furzey Gardens is the social enterprise of the Minstead Trust, working with and offering support to those with learning disabilities.
In the heart of the New Forest, it is an enchanting and magical garden which has evolved over time and is now full of ancient and younger trees, pretty planting and plants for sale, winding paths, a woodland adventure play area, fairy houses, a gallery, shop and café full of delicious treats. It seemed like fate when we found that we had a connection to the place through our wonderful lead climber, whose own grandfather had worked with the founder of the Minstead Trust during his lifetime. Examples of Grandad’s enormous timber tables, made from whole uncut slabs of Elm, are used by picnickers in the garden. So we were really pleased to be able to help out with a tree survey of the old veteran trees on site, and create a pruning plan to ensure that visible risks were mitigated for the continued safety in the garden. It was a lovely place to work and despite the freezing conditions the skies were sharp and bright. We particularly loved our daily furry audience, though getting htem to read the signs and stay out of the work exclusion zone was occasionally a bit tricky!
For advice and a quote for works to your trees and hedges, call Andrew on 01256 817369, 07771 883061 or email him: Andrew@primarytreesurgeons.co.uk Twitter: @PrimaryTreeSurg