AN environmental group which acted as guardian of an historic woodland celebrated its tenth anniversary - then made a shock announcement that it is disbanding.

For many months, Hookstone and Crimple Wood Preservation Group in south Harrogate has been trying to plug gaps by finding key officials to help run its organisation.

But, after repeated pleas for help, no one came forward, leaving officials with little choice other than to close the group.

The announcement was made by vice-chairman Sue Vasey, whose whole family has been at the hands-on forefront of regenerating the famous woodland, the last remaining part of the ancient Forest of Knaresborough.

Members greeted news of the closure with sadness - and the odd tear - as they gathered to mark the group's ten-year milestone. The driving force behind its founding, 82-year-old Mary Lister, was unable to attend but penned a personal letter to the gathering.

She said: "Through ten years of unswerving commitment so much has been achieved.

"We have become a close-knit family, forging deep and lasting friendships.

"Our greatest success was undoubtedly the five-year legal battle resulting in Town Green status."

Its status means Hookstone Wood - known locally as Hooky Wood - is secure for future generations to enjoy unhindered.

Apart from successfully opposing a park-and-ride scheme six years ago, which would have seen part of the woodland chopped down, the group has regenerated the woodland. Ponds have been cleaned out, drainage improved and a willow living bridge restored.

Management of the wood will be carried out by Harrogate Borough Council, whose parks chief Patrick Kilburn said it was with "much sadness" he heard the group was going to wind up.

He said: "It has never ceased to amaze me the enthusiasm of the group and just how much work has been achieved during that time."