It is a time of change in Finemere Wood as summer fades into autumn and the woodland prepares for winter. The days are growing cooler and shorter, and the ground hungrily soaks up the rain after the long, hot months of summer. The woodland workers come adorned with extra layers, a fleece and a hat maybe, to keep the chill at bay.

The leaves are turning, exhibiting glorious autumnal hues, marking the end of their season. As the wind whispers through the treetops, they gently twist and twirl to the ground. The trees are entering a dormant phase, and yet this stillness is deceptive. While branches stand bare, the roots work on, as energy is redirected underground.

The loppers and saws are out once more as the season of cutting and clearing scrub begins. Unlike the majestic arboreal giants of Finemere Wood, this is not a time for dormancy in the volunteer team. Energy flows outwards rather than inwards as, restless with anticipation, the woodland workers dive into thorny thickets with pure exuberance.

Swiftly and with practiced skill, the team carves a scallop along the woodland edge. The open bay will draw sunlight to the ground allowing new growth. Cut on rotation, these staggered clearings cultivate a rich habitat mosaic for a wealth of species.

The nip in the air dictates a different rhythm. There is little lingering over tea and cake, as workers scurry back to the undergrowth. Scrub is cleared around taller trees as competitive tree felling takes hold. Harmless fun, providing safety comes first and limits are respected.

A vibrant red bracket fungus catches my eye. I am frustrated I am unable to identify it and resolve to address my ignorance.  Beneath the soil, a vast mycelium network spreads unseen; with the cooler, wetter weather, it sends up fruiting bodies. An incredible array of fungi of varying shapes, sizes and colours appear throughout the wood, a reward for anyone looking closely.

By mid-afternoon, the woodland workers are growing weary. The tools are gathered up and we step back to admire our work. All looks still and calm, and yet underground the machinery of roots and mycelium quietly pulses on.

More than 1,700 volunteers help us towards our vision of more nature everywhere, on our nature reserves, at our visitor and education centres, in our offices and more.

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