LANDOWNERS are being offered the chance to revive any neglected woodland on their property.

The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) has appointed a "woodlands adviser" to encourage farmers and owners to manage woods for timber, wood fuel, conservation and also biodiversity.

Former woodsman Sean Harrison has been asked to identify pockets of neglected, privately-owned woodland in or near the AONB which are suitable for regeneration. He said: "This is the first time the Surrey Hills has had someone dedicated to woodland and it's very exciting.

"I will be finding the woods that are not currently being managed, tracking down their owners and engaging with them."

The tree safety consultant can help owners apply to the Forestry Commission's English Woodland Grant Scheme, which funds up to 50 per cent of the costs of any management work.

Fore more information, call 01372 220650.