It's magical..somewhere like this needs to be protected'

A FORGOTTEN corner of William the Conqueror's hunting forest has become a sanctuary for some of Britain's most threatened wildlife.

- Steph Spyro

The red-listed woodcock and lesserspotted woodpecker have all found a home on Horse Common.

The former heathland is undergoing massive transformations to turn it into a haven for animals thanks to the generosity of Daily Express readers and green energy boss Dale Vince.

Enjoying the beauty of the 93-acre plot was reader Rachel Putterill, 71, from Walton-on-Thames, Surrey.

Surrounded by the rich autumnal hues of the New Forest, she marvelled at the potential of the reserve and the wildlife it now nurtures.

She said: "It's magical, a fantastic place. I'm impressed by what they're doing and I'm proud that the Express has helped bring it about, and Dale as well. I'm fortunate where I am that I have a lot of nature around me but somewhere like this certainly needs to be protected." Despite the site's tranquillity, it is obvious that human handprints are all over the landscape. The first order of business for the RSPB has been to fell conifer plantations and clear invasive rhododendron.