A new series of sculptures celebrating local wildlife is arriving at Newent Lake this autumn.

Newent lake and woods have long been a haven for wildlife and nature in the centre of the town.

Over recent years, Newent Town Council has worked to enhance the area with duck houses on the lake, wildflower meadows in clearings and bat boxes in the woods.

Now the council has commissioned a series of sculptures celebrating local fauna and made from local flora.

“The lake is home to many magnificent old trees,” said Newent mayor Christine Howley.

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“Eventually old trees fall down, and last year we identified that a lovely old Turkey Oak on the lake shore was nearing the end of its life.

“Standing on the side of a well-used footpath, the tree had to come down before it became dangerous. But we didn’t want to lose it.”

Eventually, internationally-acclaimed sculptor Daniel Cordell was chosen to turn the tree into something beautiful.

The artist is instinctively drawn to wood and has specialised in large scale green wood carving and constructing.

Daniel generally uses timber from trees that are deemed dead, damaged or dangerous, including those that are still standing.

Newent sculptures to be unveiled next month

The first sculpture, completed in time for the Jubilee celebrations, was crafted from the still-standing trunk of the oak tree right on the lake shore.

In just a week, and mainly using a chainsaw, Daniel conjured a host of animals, birds and fish out of the old tree trunk.

Further sculptures, all celebrating local wildlife and made from the same tree, are being positioned around the lake and it is hoped that they can form the basis of a free sculpture and nature trail.

The final works will be installed next month, with a formal unveiling ceremony. The works already in place are proving a hit with residents and visitors - and a great addition to the town's burgeoning arts scene.

In addition to the new sculptures and the town's recently commissioned statue of local Olympic Gold Medal winning horse Valegro, Newent is now home to two art galleries and a range of craft shops.

Plans are also underway, working in conjunction with Canopy Arts, for an art festival next spring.