AN environmental group which acts as a volunteer guardian of a North Yorkshire wood has launched a £15,000 appeal to fund a restoration scheme.

Members of the Hookstone and Crimple Wood Preservation Group want to restore the green pond in the wood, repair its woven willow "living bridge" recently attacked by vandals, and improve the wildlife habitat.

The group was recently presented with a Green Flag award for its work in enhancing and helping to preserve the woodland asset.

The beauty spot, close to Harrogate's Great Yorkshire Showground and on the fringes of Crimple Valley, was recently singled out for praise by judges in the Britain in Bloom contest which saw Harrogate capturing the top prize and entry into the European contest.