A pioneering project to boost a common’s adder population has been set back several years after a wildfire last month.
The Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust has set up a fundraising campaign after Crookham Common in Berkshire was damaged in the blaze that started on 14 August and was tackled overnight.
It destroyed approximately two hectares (4.9 acres) of sensitive scrubland and bracken at the designated site of special scientific interest.
“[Firefighters’] professionalism, speed and dedication ensured the fire was contained and helped to avert a far worse situation,” said Kate Titford, the trust’s head of communications.
The charity’s land manager Julian Cooper added: “This project has been set back by several years by the fire.
“As climate change makes events like this more likely, we need your help more than ever, across the three counties.”