IF anyone would like would to go on a beautiful woodland walk from Hazel Hill, Drybrook.... actually, don't bother as the woods aren't there anymore!

A week or so ago, two men in gigantic machines turned up and have been systematically cutting the forest down ever since. There's something depressingly relentless about it, one massive vehicle cuts down the trees, and another massive vehicle carts them away and piles them up.

What amazes me is it only takes two people to do it, especially with all the unemployment around!

Anyway, that is a side issue. I shudder to think how many creatures have been killed. Many I would imagine, as the area is very rich in wildlife. I have seen everything up there from birds, to frogs, voles, foxes and deer. Apart from that it's very sad that the Forest as we know it is being decimated.

I have enjoyed many walks with my children up there, and it won't be the same anymore. I have heard that they plan to replant next year, but many of us will be dead and buried by the time it's a wood again. On the plus side, at least our great grandchildren will enjoy it!

The main pathways have been churned up terribly by the heavy machinery. Some of the ruts are a foot deep! I'm hoping they will flatten the paths and tidy up once they've finished, but I'm not holding my breath! If anyone wants to have a look, you can park on the sharp bend between the top of the Stenders and Drybrook, and walk through to Puddlebrook. But bring your wellies!

I can't really imagine it happening in other forests, such as the new forest for example. Perhaps us foresters are seen as easy targets, I don't know. I suppose the bottom line is somebody is making good money from the timber, But it still seems a real shame.

– A saddened Forester.