In a remarkable collaboration between local schools, businesses and conservationists, the recent Scrub Bash to protect endangered butterfly species at Westcott was a huge success.
The event amassed over 390 hours of dedicated effort from 27 adult volunteers, 31 students from The Royal Latin Grammar School and 30 Year 4 children from Our Lady’s Catholic Primary School.
This collective endeavour has not only enhanced the habitat for endangered butterfly species but also strengthened community ties and corporate engagement in environmental conservation.
The event, organised by Chiltern Rangers was supported by Westcott Venture Park Teams including Savills, a Westcott based business and Nurture Landscapes and resulted in the creation of 10 new sheltered scallops in the scrub. These scallops are expected to foster the regrowth of grassland and the return of butterfly and moth flora.
The Nurture Landscapes team even brought in their tractor to further push back the scrub, ensuring the grassland's recovery.
A significant highlight of the event was the discovery of Brown Hairstreak eggs on young blackthorn. The Brown Hairstreak, a species on the GB Red List, relies on young blackthorn growth for egg-laying. The hope is that new blackthorn will flourish in the scallops, replacing the aged growth that was cut down.
Paul Stack of Chiltern Rangers said: "It has been such a pleasure working with all involved at this year's Scrub Bash. I feel it has been the best year both for environmental impact with lots of scrub cleared and community engagement.
“We have felt so much more supported and valued by the new team at Westcott.”
John Westwood, Westcott Operations Manager said: "We’re absolutely delighted with the success of this year’s event. It not only enriches the ecological landscape at Westcott but also offers businesses the opportunity to participate in impactful corporate social responsibility activities."
The event was further bolstered by match funding for an extra ranger each day, allowing for the accommodation of large school groups. As the community looks forward to a summer visit from the students to witness the fruits of their labour, the success of this year's Scrub Bash stands as a testament to the power of collective action in safeguarding our natural heritage.
The program is sponsored by Westcott owners PATRIZIA, along with Butterfly Conservation Upper Thames Branch, and the Rothschild Foundation. Chiltern Rangers hopes to conduct more sessions next year.
Photograph includes children from Our Lady’s Catholic Primary School.
