Beloved Sandwell woods destroyed by high winds brought by Storm Darragh

Warley Woods Community Trust has appealed for the community's help as it faces a huge bill and clean up of the damage caused by the high winds. 

One of the 'iconic' old oak trees in the Smethwick woodland has come down, much to the dismay of the trust and the local community. 

The strong winds from the storm has also caused damage to the woodland's tree nursery, where the young trees were being cared for and nurtured by volunteers of the trust.

There are also fallen trees blocking the main driveway. 

It comes days after Warley Woods Community Trust was awarded the King’s Award for Volunteering.

Due to the extent of the damage and fallen trees, the trust will need to bring in professional help and are asking the public to help foot the large bill after they spent £14,000 of their budget on essential safety works this year. 

A statement by the Trust read: "Our staff will begin the clear up on Monday but the extent and size of some of the fallen limbs means we will need to bring in outside help.

"We had just completed the first phase of our safety works this year, completing everything that was due and that was at a cost of £14,000.  We had budgeted for that work, but not for this amount of extra significant additional work. This will cost us thousands for sure.

"We have already been asked by people walking in the Woods and seeing the damage if there will be an appeal for help and so here it is. Loved by its Community. Managed by its Community Trust.  Financially supported by so many who care. Thank you.

"If you are not a member of the Community Trust yet, but would like to support our ongoing care for Warley Woods, then you can join here instead of making a one-off donation.  We would love to have you with us in good times as well as difficult ones.  Donations specifically to help with this clear up work are of course most welcome too."