Friends of Dalby Forest Charity No: 1125882
Annual Report for the period 1 May 2024 to 30th April 2025
Trustees: Martin Baxter Judith Finch Robert Howlett Ruth Phillips Ed Watters Judith Winters
Corresponding address: Judith Winters 80 Main St Ebberston YO13 9NH
Report prepared for AGM October 2025
Friends of Dalby Forest Annual Report for the period 1 May 2024 to 30th April 2025
1. Structure, Governance & Management
The charitable objects of the Friends of Dalby Forest are to promote for the benefit of the public the conservation, protection and management of Dalby Forest and the surrounding forests and lands owned or managed by the Forestry England within the North York Moors National Park, to which the general public has access, in particular its natural history, ecology and wildlife.
The governing document of the Friends of Dalby Forest is based on the ‘Foundation’ model for Charitable Incorporated Organisations (CIOs). The charity converted to a CIO in 2024.
Trustees are appointed or re-appointed at an annual AGM. Trustees are recruited from our active volunteers who have firsthand experience with our work and demonstrate a strong commitment to and an understanding of the charity’s objectives. This approach means all trustees are already well-acquainted with our values, activities, and needs. We aim to enhance visitors’ recreation, enjoyment and understanding of Dalby Forest.
2. Activities, Achievements and Public Benefit
During the reporting period, Friends of Dalby Forest has continued to see a strong and dedicated volunteer base, with an average of 11 volunteers attending each of our monthly work tasks. Across the year, we accumulated over 618 volunteer hours, demonstrating the deep commitment of our supporters to the forest. A total of 29 individuals actively volunteered throughout the year, with a record cohort of 15 volunteers contributing to a task at the Forest Eye where we were removing tree guards from the large landart feature. This level in volunteer numbers is sustained from last year, although it continues to present the challenge of identifying tasks and projects that can effectively engage the number of people who turn up for tasks. Nonetheless, it highlights the enthusiasm within our community and the support for our charitable objects.
Key Tasks and Highlights
The majority of our volunteer hours were spent at monthly work tasks across various forest locations as well as planning future tasks and projects. Our tasks are central to our objects and crucial to the ongoing conservation and maintenance of Dalby Forest. During the reporting period, several key projects were undertaken:
- Bird Feeding Area Management : Two dedicated volunteers continue to manage the bird feeding area at Staindale, ensuring it provides a reliable source of food for the
forest's bird varied population. A new sign, which we provided content for, was also designed and installed.
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Dry Stone Wall Maze : Our volunteers were critical to preparing the Dry Stone Wall Maze site for access and the opening up of the site to the public. We assisted in the Open Day which marked the end of the first phase of this long term project. We have also been critical in the planning, building and re-launching of the Buy A Stone scheme to crowdfund the maze build.
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Turtle Dove Conservation : We created more new drinking pools and habitats for turtle doves thanks to continued donations. We also maintained the pools we created in previous years by clearing away excess vegetation. We set up camera traps purchased with donations at two pool sites and gathered evidence of how these pools are already supporting the turtle dove population as well as other forest wildlife. The hard work put into quite a small feature has already paid massive dividends for wildlife (and people).
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Archaeological Conservation : Volunteers cleared pine regeneration from historic rabbit warren walls near Swair Dale, helping to protect these archaeological features. Habitat piles
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SSSI Maintenance : We carried out more sycamore regeneration removal at Eller’s Wood SSSI - a wet woodland habitat. We also assisted the forest ecologist to cut and clear rushes at Rosekirkdale SSSI to help improve the habitat. removing grass and thatch (combing and raking by hand not cutting) to assist with the management of this sensitive and waterlogged area.
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Play Park Maintenance : We maintained the willow structures at the play park near the visitor centre, ensuring these features remain safe and attractive for children.
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Path Maintenance : Volunteers carried out essential path maintenance on trails around Adderstone.
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Enchanted Wood : We planted a hedge made from native UK species to replace a broken fence at the Enchanted Wood area for young visitors.
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Tools : We have been able to purchase more materials for creating the turtle dove pools, and have invested in new folding saws to support vegetation management tasks
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Planters: We commissioned and installed 4 new larch planters to enhance the outside seating area at the visitor centre park. The planters were planted with pollinator-friendly plants. Plaques of our logo were attached to them helping to raise our visibility around the forest.
Future Projects and Ongoing Partnerships
We remain committed to pushing forward the Dry Stone Wall Maze project in collaboration with Forestry England (FE). We have been involved in the relaunch of the Buy A Stone fundraiser. Our relationship with FE rangers and staff remains good, and we have benefitted from their support and cooperation throughout the year.
We were able to purchase 24 new Schwegler bat boxes which were installed by the Dalby Bat Group at Keldy which will give the Natterers colony there some permanancy vs the wooden boxes which constantly require replacement.
Visiting artist to the forest, Louisa Chase was shown round some of the FoDF projects and in return Louisa offered her labour to help clear away some of the Storm Darragh damage at the Enchanted Wood, cutting away as many of the fallen branches as possible from the hedge we'd planted.
Communication and Public Engagement
Our communication channels have continued to play a key role in promoting our work and encouraging public participation. We regularly update our followers about ongoing projects and volunteer opportunities through our social media platforms and website.
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Facebook Group : Our Facebook group remains our most active communication platform, growing from 472 members last year to 578 members this year, predominantly from nearby towns and cities, including Scarborough, Pickering, Malton, Easingwold and York.
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Website : Our website has seen a steady flow of traffic, particularly when work task reports are posted. Over the reporting period, the site recorded 35,146 views (up from 32,606 last year) and 16,531 visitors (compared to 15,202 last year), reflecting an increase in public interest and engagement with our activities.
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Twitter/X : The @DalbyFriends Twitter/X account also saw a slight decrease in followers, from 698 last year to 642 this year. This probably reflects our lessened usage of the platform while we focus on Facebook which enables communication with a more local and focused audience who may be able to come to future work tasks..
The reporting period has been a highly productive year for Friends of Dalby Forest , marked by increased volunteer engagement, successful conservation efforts, and continued public support. As we move forward, we are excited to build on these achievements, particularly through the expansion of our key projects (turtle dove drinking pools and dry stone wall maze), stronger partnerships, and ongoing public outreach. We remain deeply committed to the protection and enjoyment of Dalby Forest, ensuring it remains a cherished natural space for future generations.
The Roles & Contributions of Volunteers
Volunteers are at the heart of Friends of Dalby Forest , playing a critical role in the success of our charity. Their contributions ensure the smooth operation of our initiatives and help us achieve our mission of preserving and enhancing Dalby Forest for the enjoyment of all.
Volunteers are actively involved in hands-on conservation work, such as tree planting, trail maintenance, as well as heritage and habitat restoration. Their efforts help preserve the forest’s natural beauty and biodiversity while ensuring that it remains accessible and safe for visitors.
The turtle dove drinking pool project continues to generate donations via our GoFundMe page, but supporter Richard Baines should be expressly thanked for the donations he has generated for this project through his talks and other activities.
The contributions of our volunteers are invaluable, not only in terms of the practical work they carry out but also in the sharing of information and commenting on posts about our work
on social media, which helps to raise awareness of our work. Without their continued support, the Friends of Dalby Forest would not be able to achieve the positive impact we make on the forest and its visitors. We are grateful for the many hours volunteers have spent and without their valuable contribution and time on work tasks, we would not have been able to achieve our goals .
How the Public Have Benefitted
The Friends of Dalby Forest 's work contributes to environmental protection, public health, education, and community building.
Conservation and Environmental Protection: We help preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of Dalby Forest through conservation efforts, including wildlife habitat protection, tree planting initiatives, and the maintenance of trails and natural resources. These activities contribute to the long-term environmental health of the area, benefiting both the local ecosystem and the wider environment.
Access to Nature and Wellbeing: By maintaining and enhancing public access to the forest, we enable individuals and families to enjoy outdoor recreational activities such as walking, cycling, birdwatching, and picnicking. Access to green spaces like Dalby Forest supports physical and mental well-being, providing opportunities for exercise, relaxation, and connection with nature.
Education and Awareness: In promoting our work, we raise public awareness about the importance of forests, biodiversity, and sustainable environmental practices. By engaging the public in these efforts, we foster a greater appreciation of natural spaces and encourage responsible use of the forest.
Community Engagement: Our charity promotes community involvement through volunteering and initiatives that bring people together to work for the common good. This helps strengthen local community ties, provides opportunities for skills development, and encourages a shared sense of responsibility for preserving the forest.
3. Financial overview
The Turtle Dove donations have provided the Charity with its main income with PayPal receipts of £10,563 for the year; £407 was paid out for turtle dove pool materials.
The Maze has seen some financial activity this year after a quiet year in 2023/24. In April the balance of the funds in the restricted account (£6,561) plus £2,500 from the Charity’s General Fund was paid out to cover work to create paths to open the Maze to the general public. Subsequently, the dedicated Maze fund was has had income of £2,093 from members of the public paying for signed stones which will be included in the next phase of the Maze build.
There were two items of Special Expenditure in February. The Charity paid £1800 for Larch box planters at the Visitors Centre and £1,435 for Bat Boxes installed at the Beaver Enclosure in Cropton Forest.
In the accounting period 1[st] May 2024 to 30[th] April 2025 total funds were:
| 2024/25 | 2023/24 | |
|---|---|---|
| Start ofyear balance | £17,149.91 | £16,724.38 |
| End ofyear balance | £16,271.59 | £17,149.91 |
| Income/Expenditure balance | -£878.32 | £425.53 |
Closing Balances for each fund
| 2024/25 | 2023/24 | |
|---|---|---|
| Restricted fund(Maze) | £2,093.45 | £6,561.05 |
| Unrestricted | £14,178.14 | £10,588.86 |
| Totals | £16,271.59 | £17,149.91 |
Receipts
| 2024/25 | 2023/24 | |
|---|---|---|
| Wishingwell donations | £0.00 | £0.00 |
| Maze donations | £2,093.45 | £2,056.00 |
| Charitybox donations | £346.00 | £447.50 |
| Turtle dove donations viapaypal | £10,562.60 | £1,118.54 |
| Totals | £13,002.05 | £3,622.04 |
Expenditure
| 2024/25 | 2023/24 | |
|---|---|---|
| Maze expenditure | -£9,061.00 | £0.00 |
| Bird food expenditure | -£485.45 | -£435.58 |
| Miscellaneous expenditures | -£691.65 | -£450.61 |
| Special expenditures | -£3,235.06 | |
| Charityoverheads(Accountancyfees) | £0.00 | -£608.00 |
| Turtle Dovepool materials | -£407.21 | -£1,702.32 |
| Totals | (£13,880.37) | (£3,196.51) |
The main financial risk to the charity is a reduction in public donations, but funds are held to cover costs specific to projects such as the long term dry stone wall maze project, and to cover larger installations and new projects that arise during the course of the year, and in the event of a reduction or loss of income.
Principal Sources of Funding
The Friends of Dalby Forest rely on generous donations to support our work in preserving and enhancing the forest for public enjoyment. Our income is primarily generated through the following channels:
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Donation Boxes: Visitors to Dalby Forest contribute directly to our efforts by giving donations through collection boxes placed in the visitor centre. These donations play a vital role in funding our conservation activities and community events.
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Online Fundraising: We also receive significant support through online platforms such as GoFundMe and PayPal. These digital contributions allow supporters from near and far to easily donate, helping to sustain our ongoing projects like the Drinking Pools for Turtle Doves project.
In addition to these core sources, we occasionally receive income via grants or other fundraising activities. Every contribution, whether large or small, makes a meaningful difference and enables us to continue our mission of protecting Dalby Forest for future generations.
Trustee Remuneration
All Trustees of the Friends of Dalby Forest serve in a voluntary capacity. Trustees benefit from free access to Dalby Forest in line with the general Forestry England practice (Forestry
England facilitates free access to Dalby for all volunteers) but otherwise trustees receive no other remuneration or material benefits for their contributions to the charity. Trustees are reimbursed for any out-of-pocket expenses that are necessarily and reasonably incurred while carrying out their duties in support of the charity’s purposes. These expenses are reimbursed at cost and are strictly limited to those directly related to the promotion and delivery of the charity’s objectives.
4. Reference and Administration Details
Name of the Charity: Friends of Dalby Forest. Charity No: 1125882.
The charity is not registered with HM Revenue & Customs
Principal Address (correspondence): c/ Judith Winters, 80 Main St, Ebberston, YO13 9NH Email: friendsofdalbyforest@gmail.com
Website: https://friendsofdalbyforest.wordpress.com/
Names of the Trustees who manage the Charity
| Name Date appointed trustee |
Name Date appointed trustee |
|---|---|
| Judith Winters (Chairperson) | 1st October 2017 |
| Martin Philip Baxter (Treasurer) | 13th March 2022 |
| Judith Finch 10th March 2024 |
|
| Robert Howlett 1st October 2017 |
|
| Ruth Phillips 13th March 2022 |
|
| Edward Watters 10th March 2024 |
This report was approved by the Trustees and signed on their behalf on 12th October 2025.
Judith Winters (Chairperson)
| Charity Name | No (if any) | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Friends of Dolby Forest | 1125882 | |||
| Receipts and payments accounts | CC16a | |||
| 01/05/2024 Period start date For the period from |
To | 30/04/2025 Period end date |
| Section A Receipts and payments | Section A Receipts and payments | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted funds |
Restricted funds |
Endowment funds |
Total funds | Last year | ||||||
| to the nearest £ | to the nearest £ | to the nearest £ | to the nearest £ | to the nearest £ | to the nearest £ | |||||
| A1 Receipts MAZE(VIA PAYPAL) - 2,093 - 2,093 2,056 CHARITY DONATIONS(VIA PAYPAL) 10,563 - - 10,563 1,119 CHARITY BOX DONATIONS 346 - - 346 447 - - - - - - - - - - Sub total(Gross income for AR)10,909 2,093 - 13,002 3,622 A2 Asset and investment sales, (see table). - - - - - - - - - Sub total - - - - - Total receipts 10,909 2,093 - 13,002 3,622 ~~SSS SS~~ ~~=~~ ~~SS SSS5—~~ |
||||||||||
| A3 Payments | ||||||||||
| BIRD FEED | 485 | - | - | 485 | 436 | |||||
| ACTIVITY EXPENDITURE | 692 | - | - | 692 | 451 | |||||
| ACCOUNTANTS FEE | - | - | - | 608 | ||||||
| TURTLE DOVE PROJECT COSTS | 407 | - | - | 407 | 1,702 | |||||
| MAZE | 2,500 | 6,561 | - | 9,061 | - | |||||
| LARCH BOX PLANTERS FOR V/C | 1,800 | - | - | 1,800 | - | |||||
| BAT BOXES | 1,435 | - | - | 1,435 | - | |||||
| - | - | - | - | - | ||||||
| - | - | - | - | - | ||||||
| **Sub total ** | 7,319 | 6,561 | - | 13,880 | 3,197 | |||||
| A4 Asset and investment purchases, (see table) - - - - - - - - Sub total - - - - - Total payments 7,319 6,561 - 13,880 3,197 ~~S555~~ |
||||||||||
| Net of receipts/(payments) A5 Transfers between funds A6 Cash funds last year end Cash funds this year end |
3,590 - 4,468 - - 878 425 - - - - - 10,589 6,561 - 17,150 16,724 14,179 2,093 - 16,272 17,149 ~~=======~~ |
CCXX R1 accounts (SS)
03/10/2025
1
| Section B Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the period ~~ee~~ |
Section B Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the period ~~ee~~ |
|---|---|
| Unrestricted Restricted Endowment |
|
| Categories | funds funds funds Details |
| to nearest £ to nearest £ to nearest £ |
|
| B1 Cash funds | 14,179 2,093 - - - - - - - 14,179 2,093 - Total cash funds (agree balances with receipts and payments ~~—j~~ |
| OK OK OK account(s)) |
|
| Unrestricted Restricted Endowment |
|
| funds funds funds |
|
| to nearest £ to nearest £ to nearest £ Details |
|
| B2 Other monetary assets B3 Investment assets |
- - - Fund to which asset belongs Cost (optional) Current value (optional) - - Details ~~es~~ ~~0~~ ~~Pe~~ |
| B4 Assets retained for the charity’s own use |
Fund to which asset belongs Cost (optional) Current value (optional) - - - - Fund to which Amount due When due Details ~~J SF~~ ~~-—~~ |
| B5 Liabilities | liability relates (optional) (optional) - Details ~~Po~~ |
| Signed by one or two trustees on behalf of all the trustees |
Date of approval Print Name Judith Winters Martin Baxter Signature ~~eeEE~~ |
CCXX R2 accounts (SS)
03/10/2025
2