Vandalism at Tiddesley Woods Pershore.

On Friday 11th July Pershore SNT met with Tomos Holloway Of Worcestershire Wildlife Trust to discuss the recent vandalism that been occurring in Tiddesley Woods and what we can do collectively to stop it.

 In February Worcestershire Wildlife Trust took the decision to close some of the unofficial footpaths within the woodland, with the paths being blocked with wooden hurdles and brash piles, and signs installed indicating that the paths are closed. This was done alongside the opening of a new circular walk to encourage people to stick to the main paths to reduce disturbance to wildlife in the rest of the wood as although Worcestershire Wildlife Trust are happy for people to exercise their dogs in the woods it is first and foremost a nature reserve and a designated SSSI. 

 Since the paths have been closed they have unfortunately encountered an increase in vandalism across the wood, most likely from people unhappy with the closures, as they have had paths repeatedly unblocked and signs damaged, destroyed or stolen. They have also had one of their people counting devices damaged and ripped off its post. On Wednesday it was discovered that someone had unblocked another 2 paths, stole/destroyed 4 path closure signs, as well as damaged other signage across the wider site. 

We will be conducting additional patrols in and around Tiddesley Woods in order to deter this behaviour and to speak anyone engaging in this behaviour. Can we also ask that if you encounter this behaviour whilst in the woods that you contact 101 giving as many details as possible so we can stop this vandalism happening. 

Many thanks in advance for your support in helping maintain the quality of Tiddesley Woods.