MINERALS giant Imerys has been helping a forest school on the outskirts of Par.

The forest school at the Cornish Acorns site run by the To The Woods Community Interest Company (CIC) was affected after Imerys had to fell two trees infected by ash dieback, a serious disease which has been hitting ash trees across the country.

The forest school, which was created and is run by Charlotte Braiser, aims to provide youngsters with a safe place in nature where they can play, explore and learn.

However, following the felling, the site became open to the nearby road, creating a concern for the forest school and for Imerys.

Imerys planning and estates surveyor Jeremy Elvins said: “Unfortunately, we had to clear trees which were, along with undergrowth, creating a natural barrier between the forest school site and the road.

“We were happy to fund and arrange the construction of a new fence, so that the groups of young people who enjoy their weekly sessions can now play in safety.”

Charlotte said: “Thank you to Imerys and the wonderful team that has helped us by providing a new fence.

“This gives us much-needed privacy from the road and helps create a safer and friendlier environment for all the people attending sessions with us.

“A big thank you to Imerys for their support - we are so grateful!”

Imerys UK director Mark Hewson said: “We are always proud to be able to support local groups. The team has been able to provide a fence to increase security and create a safer environment.

“We have also donated money to the group to go towards the building of an outdoor community kitchen, giving an opportunity to many young people to learn and practise new skills.

“I’m also told we have a delivery of our ball clay on its way up from Dorset for the group to practise their creative skills!”

To improve the boundary area beside the forest school, shrubs have been replanted.

In addition, Imerys will be working in partnership with the forest school to enhance the biodiversity of the area with further planting.