Barkers Wood
Update 14th Jan 2022
The Friends of Barker's Wood, a sub-group of Littleborough Civic Trust recently planted 60 sapling trees in the Wood and more are to follow.
These trees are to commemorate the life of the Duke of Edinburgh, and The Queens Platinum Jubilee.
The wood is also used for educational purposes by St. Andrews Primary School, in addition to providing a 'natural' play area for any children.
Barker’s Wood is a small but beautiful woodland located off Starring Road Littleborough. The 5-acre plot of land was bequeathed by Mrs Marjorie Barker in memory of her husband Mr Edmund Barker for the benefit of the community.
The Friends of Barker’s Wood are a group of local people who care about and treasure this woodland. Most of us use it on a daily basis and we want to protect this peaceful haven of nature for everyone to enjoy. We would like to help preserve it for future generations. The planting of trees and the need for our green spaces has never been more important than it is now, as the whole world faces the climate change crisis
The group was formed 5 Years ago when we applied to Rochdale Council, who own the site, to list Barker’s Wood as an Asset of Community Value. This was granted but expired after 5 years on 13th April 2021.
We have now become a sub group of Littleborough Civic Trust and the Trust applied for the Asset of Community Value status renewal on our behalf, which was successful.
St Andrews School, Dearnley, use the wood as a learning resource. Additionally, The Rochdale Field Naturalist Society has carried out surveys within the wood.
With the onslaught of the Covid pandemic many people have sought solace, taking exercise in the wood during this crisis.
The Green Volunteers and members of the group work together with the Ranger Judy Alderson to help maintain the wood.
Wild garlic, bluebells, crocus and snowdrops have been planted and there are plans to sow wild flowers, cowslips and primroses.
Photo #1 is an article from a 1990 Rochdale Observer and explains how it became Barker’s Wood. Some of the local community remember this event and their children were involved in the initial tree planting. This has enhanced their attachment to this wood. It is now a significant part of our local history.
Photo #2 is an extract from the Littleborough Civic Trust Souvenir edition of their 40th Anniversary newsletter in 2011. Barker’s Wood is mentioned in this edition and again this photograph may bring back memories for some
