A local friends group in Tunbridge Wells has received almost £10,000 from the Big Lottery Fund 'Awards for All' scheme.

The Friends of Barnett's Wood have received the grant from the scheme for work aimed at improving facilities and events in the Local Nature Reserve.

Barnett's Wood is off of Powdermill Lane in the High Brooms area of Tunbridge Wells and hosts 12 hectares of ancient woodland, flower rich meadows and an education pond.

However, the reserve's outdoor classroom has been declining and there are plans for new spiral seating which can be used by visitors and school children alike.

New signage around the reserve will point you in the right direction when you attend one of the family events that are planned on the reserve.

"We are incredibly pleased with the result. Barnett’s Wood has needed a few improvements for some time and I hope this will encourage more families to visit the site" - Martin Tranter, chairman of the Friends group

There will also be Forest School activities and a Wonderful Wildlife ‘open day’ to launch the new learning area.

Martin Tranter, chairman of the Friends group said: "We are incredibly pleased with the result. Barnett’s Wood has needed a few improvements for some time and I hope this will encourage more families to visit the site."

The Kent High Weald Partnership manage the site on behalf of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and will be helping to deliver the activities.

Site manager Sarah Tree said: "The Friends worked really hard on the bid so I’m really pleased that it has come to fruition. We are looking forward to helping out and I know local schools will be delighted to hear about the new outdoor classroom."

For more information visit: www.khwp.org.uk or find the Kent High Weald Partnership on Twitter: @KHWCP