WORK to restore Wareham Forest is now underway thanks to an incredible response to a fundraising appeal launched after last summer’s large wildfire.

Forestry England launched the fundraising appeal following the huge wildfire last May that devastated the forest.

The fire is believed to have been started by disposable barbecues, and the fire scorched heathland, destroyed woodlands and wiped out critical habitats for wildlife across an area equivalent to the size of 350 football pitches.

Over £45,000 has been raised for the project through a major donation from parcel delivery company DPD and a series of fundraising events by the local community.

Forest Management Director, South Forest District, Bruce Rothie said: "It is just fantastic to now be restoring this special place. The fire last year was devastating, destroying so much of this landscape and the wildlife that call it home.

"The response to our appeal has been overwhelming and we want to say a huge thank you to everyone who got involved."

Wareham Forest is a stronghold for wildlife and much of it is classified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

It is one of the few places where it is still possible to find all six of the UK’s native reptiles, including the endangered smooth snake and sand lizard, and it is home to many rare species of birds and insects.

The restoration work is focusing on restoring wildlife and habitats destroyed by the fire, with projects including the creation of new breeding sites for rare reptiles, and placing bat boxes and other artificial nests in the affected areas.

Trees are being replanted to replace some of those lost, and in other areas work will take place to accelerate the restoration of heathland and open areas of the forest to encourage different species of wildlife and plant-life to return.

The project is also investing in ways to protect the area from fire in the future by creating new fire breaks and purchasing additional fire-fighting equipment and animal rescue kits.