My name is Rob Kelsall, I'm an Aerospace Engineer based in Derby and I purchased the woodland back in 2022 as a way to cope with the after effects of the dreaded lockdown.

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It was planted, by the previous owner, as part of National Forest and Forest Commission schemes in an attempt to re-forest the country, the previous owner had not actively managed the woodland so it was completely overgrown - but I like a challenge.

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I've always been into the outdoors and relished the opportunity to learn some new woodland management skills and build on my bushcraft skills, I couldn't miss the opportunity when this 7 acre piece of Harry's Wood came up for sale.

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So far I have cleared the rides, tidied up the over grown pond and limbed most of the trees in the north western section.  I've set up a 'basecamp' area which has driveable access most of the year and cleared the access to another area near the largest Oak tree that will be the future basecamp 2.

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As it was part of the funded schemes, open access is allowed to the public for the next few years but no camping without permission.  I've always been an advocate for allowing public access to more land but not everyone is responsible so I am opening up the woodland for camping, under permitted development for 60 days a year, to allow more people to enjoy what the outdoors has to offer for a minimal cost - the fee just about covers insurance for the year!

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