Forestry England has urged the public to stay clear of closed woodlands in Northumberland after mountain rescue teams were called out to rescue a lost father and daughter.
Forest rangers say that there have been four incidents in recent weeks where people have entered areas of woodland around Rothbury which are currently off limits due to storm recovery work, following damage from Storm Arwen in November 2021. Most recently, a father and daughter became lost in a closed-off section of the 2,800 acre Thrunton Wood and had to be rescued by the Northumberland National Park Mountain Rescue Team.
Iain Nixon, team leader of Northumberland National Park Mountain Rescue Team, said: "I’m not sure how the walkers ended up where they did in an area of significant tree fall, but thankfully nobody was injured. Whilst all ended well, we would reiterate Forestry England’s advice to stay out of the wood until work is completed."
Read more: Climbers who fell in Cairngorms rescued by Northumberland National Park Mountain Rescue Team
Alex Maclennan, recreation and public affairs manager Northumberland with Forestry England, said: "Not only is there a danger of being struck by falling trees and branches, but the conditions under foot are extremely difficult. Heavy harvesting equipment is also currently removing trees and clearing access roads.
"This poses its own threat to people who ignore signs and slows down the work. Shutting a popular woodland is a serious decision for us, but public safety comes first. We hope to have the wood fully opened by the summer, but until then it’s vital people stay away."
Storm Arwen damaged or destroyed 12 percent of the trees in Thrunton Wood. Some have been cleared, but others are still hanging dangerously in the air and could fall at any time. For that reason , the wood has been closed to the public with warning signs at all access points. Other woodlands in the Rotbury area affected by Storm Arwen include Kidland and Harwood, where only the forest roads are open.
Simonside has since reopened, though Forestry England advise that those planning trips to the area check safety advice online before their visits.
Garry Neill, rural inspector at Northumbria Police, said: "Our top priority is always the safety of those who live in our area and that’s why we’re urging people to stay clear of Thrunton Wood currently. Please always plan and research your walks before you set out – taking into account everything from weather to on-going works. We’re lucky to have such amazing local Mountain Rescue Teams and the best way to help them is by being a responsible walker."
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