‘Photo kindly supplied by Herts & Essex Observer’

GQ spreads wealth at ancient woodland

VOLUNTEERS working to keep pathways clear at Birchanger Wood received a £1,000 boost from a Bishop’s Stortford business. GQ Wealth Management, of South Street, has donated the money to the woodland’s trustees to help buy gear to maintain the ancient site. Pat Forrest, warden of the woods, said: “The money will be put to exceedingly good use to purchase desperately required equipment in the form of a leaf blower to keep the pathways defined visibly and a brush cutter to control the bramble infestation and all the natural flora to flourish.”

Julie North, business development manager for GQ Wealth Management, said “When Joyce Hammersley, a volunteer fund-raiser (for Birchanger Wood Trust), came into our office asking for sponsorship she won us over immediately with her enthusiasm regarding this project.” Late last month, the fourth stage of an access-for-all footpath through Birchanger Wood was officially opened by Lord Petre, Lord Lieutenant of Essex, and Dr Maria Davy, chairman of Birchanger Parish Council. This, together with the final footpath, which is complete but not formally opened, brings the length of upgraded footways in the wood to 5.3km (3.3 miles).

12th November 2012

Dear Julie,

I decided to wait for the publication of the account, in the Observer, of the presentation on 2nd November before writing to congratulate you on arranging a most suitable event. I thought the write-up, complete with photo was very fitting. How blessed we were with the weather….

You have greatly encouraged us Julie, in your enthusiasm for our cause. Thank you for all your efforts in putting our case forward which brought such a significant reward. At an appropriate time I hope to be in touch. IN the meantime I wish you all a joyous Christmas and a Happy new Year

Yours sincerely

Joyce