Darnford Moors copse, at Darnford Moors Ecology Park, has been named after the Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust’s (LHCRT) former chair.
A CEREMONY has taken place to name Bull Wood in honour of Christine Bull, who played a pivotal role in transforming Darnford Moors into the thriving habitat it is today and encouraging the biodiversity of the Lichfield Canal.
Under her leadership, thousands of trees, hedging plants, and wildflowers were planted in the area and along the wider canal corridor, overseeing habitat creation, wildlife surveys, hedge laying, and the installation of bird and bat boxes – always with an eye to ecological balance and long-term stewardship.
Bull Wood itself has roots that stretch back to 1997, when Mike and Penny Smith first planted the copse. Mike later served as LHCRT’s land trustee (2003-2007), and their early efforts laid the foundation for what would become a flourishing woodland.
Her impact wasn’t just environmental; it was deeply personal. Christine mentored more than 200 Duke of Edinburgh volunteers, school groups, and scouts, many of whom helped build the park she envisioned. Her warmth and encouragement turned tasks into learning and learning into lasting connection.
Christine – who was chair between 2017 and 2022 and was also the organisation’s environment trustee from 2017 to 2024 – unveiled a plaque dedicating the copse. The ceremony was attended by current and former volunteers, including the latest cohort of Duke of Edinburgh participants who joined in celebrating Christine’s legacy with heartfelt applause.
LHCRT chair Carole Mills said: “Christine’s dedication has left a lasting mark not just on the landscape, but on the hearts of everyone she’s mentored and worked alongside. Bull Wood is a tribute to her vision, her leadership, and her unwavering belief in the power of restoration.”
When she retired in 2024, Christine said: “I have cherished my time with LHCRT and am proud of what we have achieved together. It has been a privilege to volunteer alongside such a passionate and dedicated team. I will continue to support the trust’s mission and its important work to reconnect the Lichfield Canal to the national canal network.”
