History

 

In March 1998 two fields, near Derrington came up for sale. Believing that the smaller       5 hectare field would make an ideal wildlife area, a group of us actively found out how they could buy the land for the village. We made contact with The Woodland Trust and The Countryside Agency, whose aims at the time, were to create a number of “Woods On Your Doorstep” and “Millennium Greens” across the country.
It was agreed that we would run a joint project with both organisations, to try to raise enough funds for both fields, with the small field becoming the Millennium Green and the larger field, a community woodland.
After vigorous fundraising, and with the help of several grants from organisations such as The Woodland Trust, we managed to reach our goal. The Woodland Trust now manage the woodland, known as Duddas Wood, whilst Derrington Millennium Green Trust, run and maintain the Millennium Green.
It was hard work converting a field into what is now open breathing space comprising 2 hectares of wildflower meadows, a community orchard with over 100 fruit and nut trees, a willow sculpture, about 1300 various native trees, a large semi-wild area, plus a greatly extended pond designed especially to encourage wildlife. The seeds for the wildflower meadows were in the main from Mottey Meadows, itself an SSSI, and an area of outstanding beauty. Villagers, including some children, joined the Trustees in spreading the seeds, mainly by hand, all over the prepared land.
In the Millennium Green we have a wonderful amenity that is an area of natural beauty accessible to everybody. It’s walking areas provide encouragement for a healthier lifestyle, and are part of the ‘Stafford Doorstep Walks for Health Route’. There are valuable educational benefits for all age groups. As an aid to fundraising towards the vital maintenance costs of this amazing project, and as way of publicising the Green, we produce an occasional Newsletter and an annual Calendar. We are also fortunate to have a very generous group of regular financial contributors referred to as ‘Friends’.