A NEW two-acre community woodland in Frome, created in memory of late resident Moko Sellars, can go ahead following a £25,000 crowdfunder raised by her friends and family.

A 99-year lease has been granted free of charge to project partners Frome Town Council by the land’s owners, who have chosen to remain anonymous.

Work is underway on the two-acre site, with James Foster of Wessex Working Horses and shire horses Dime and Flynn preparing the land for seeding using traditional methods.

Guided walks to the site will take place at 1.30pm and 3pm on Wednesday, October 29, setting off from the Cheese and Grain and led by Frome Walkers are Welcome. Visitors can observe the land preparation, enjoy refreshments, and hear from James about his approach.

Preparation of the site will continue throughout the winter, creating a pathway through the space with a plan to plant 3,800 native trees and shrubs in Spring 2026.

Cllr Mark Dorrington said: “This piece of land will create the largest community woodland in Frome. Many thanks to the generous landowners for granting FTC a 99-year lease for the land, free of charge, and to Moko’s family and friends for raising the funds to create the space.”

“The site is set to become a much-loved destination for all in Frome, a place to recharge among native trees, discovering glades, tranquil riverside picnic spots and play features along paths for younger visitors.”

The community woodland site, including the visits on October 29, is not currently accessible for people with mobility requirements. However, the final design will take accessibility needs into account to ensure the space can be enjoyed by all.

More abut Wessex Working Horses is at wessexworkinghorses.co.uk. Book free tickets for the visits to the ‘Community woodland walk out’ at bit.ly/woodland-walkout