In 2020 the community of Thurlaston joined with the Parish Council to create a 'community wood'.

The plot of land is adjacent to the motorway and currently part of a large field (Google maps ref: 52.580387,-1.252204)

Thanks to the generosity of East Midlands Landscaping, who provided the young trees, and with the agreement of Yennards Farm, who allocated the land, the Parish Council looked to establish a small new wood of between 4/500 trees alongside the bridle path leading to the farm bridge over the M69 Motorway.

On a very wet, Saturday 29th February the trees were planted by Parish Councillors, village volunteers young and old alike.

The site is continually being monitored, worked and maintained by Councillor Phil Marshall with the invaluable support of a couple of local companies, who aide the development of the site with continual addition of trees, various plants, wild flowers, to ensure this project grows from strength to strength, every day, week, month and year for all to enjoy.

The Name 'Daniel Newton Wood'

How the wood got its name.

Once the planting had been undertaken, the wood had to be given a name.

With the help of the Headteacher of Thurlaston Primary School, Gavin Beetham, the 'Name the Wood' competition was launched and all pupils of the school were asked for their choice of name and the reason why.

The response was commendable, with very creative choices from all ages, however two entries stood out:

The Daniel Newton Wood In Daniel's memory. Hopefully it may put a smile on his Mum and Dad's face and let them know we haven't forgotten him. Theo Porter

Daniel Newton Wood I would like to name the wood after Daniel Newton, the boy that died last year in May, from the village. It would be nice for his Mum and Dad to visit. Marshall Tate Meakins

With the full consent of Daniel's parents, the 'Daniel Newton Wood' was founded and a plaque 'marks the spot' for future generations to enjoy.

Daniel Newton Wood Plaque