The volunteer group which looks after Devizes’ only nature reserve has appealed for financial help after weekend storms wreaked havoc in Drews Pond Wood.

Some 17 trees along the streamside walk were blown down during the night, leaving the area dangerous for public access.

Stuart Hislop, leader of the Drews Pond Wood Project, said: “We have had to close off the stream path as it is simply too dangerous for people. Despite the signs we have put up people have been going down there, some of them with children.

“It is going to take weeks to clear everything and we are not in a financial position to fund the work.

"We are going to need quantities of aggregate and timber and a small dumper to do the work.

“We will need to start from scratch to rebuild the walk, which took us years to create in the first place.

"I reckon it will cost at least £4,000 to carry out the work.”

Anyone who would like to help can contact Mr Hislop on 07853 299074, email stulornaeve@yahoo.co.uk or leave donations at the Southgate Inn.