RDT Woodlands was contacted by Chris and Christine Phasey in 2006. According to Chris: “We had just bought about 10 hectares of bare farmland with mature hedges around the perimeter. Our aim was to enhance the countryside and create a haven for wildlife by planting trees. Although we had taken care to make sure that the idea was viable, we needed help with the implementation”. As part of their planning, they had been talking with The Woodland Trust, who suggested RDT Woodlands as a possible contractor. So, they arranged to meet Duncan on site. Duncan advised on the design of the proposed woodland and said he could help in applying to the Forestry Commission for a grant.

“Duncan ensured that our fields were prepared and planted on budget and on time, so we got off to a good start”, said Christine. “Unfortunately, a dry spring and excessive growth of grass caused problems, but Duncan came up with ideas for cost-effective remedial work.”

Gradually the owners have taken on much of the development and maintenance work, but keep in regular contact with RDT. “Duncan has adapted his services to meet our changing requirements. He arranges the things we cannot do and supports us in keeping the costs down where we can supply the labour.”

Chris continued: “The site (now called King’s Wood) is really starting to look as we originally had in mind. Never having created woodland before, we could not have predicted all that Nature has thrown at us, so we have learnt a lot. Working with Duncan has been invaluable throughout the process and – just as important to us – a pleasure.”