Conservationists overseeing the development of a Bushey nature reserve have completed the latest phase of its transformation – planting 180 new trees.

Fisher’s Field was a hive of activity this morning as volunteers from the Countryside Management Service (CMS) bedded in dozens of hazel trees.

Friends of Fisher’s Field bought the trees with an £800 grant from Hertsmere Council as well as cash provided by the CMS.

The Fisher’s Close site has undergone several changes since it was officially recognised as a nature reserve in 1998. Following the installation of a pond last summer, members of the Friends group hope the new trees will provide an even more diverse habitat for wildlife to thrive in.

Group secretary Betty McBean said: “It is inspiring when you see it change like this. It shows that people still care about this kind of area of life. This is part of what will be a constant regeneration and upkeep of the reserve – it brings another facility and attraction to the area.”

About a dozen volunteers helped clear brambles and plant the trees which will take in the region of six years before they are fully grown.

CMS volunteer Eddie Cornell, who helped with the planting of a large hedge at the site several years ago, said: “We are out doing different things all the time. It is a nice group of people to work with and it is great when you come back and can see the effect of what you have done.”

The work is part of a five-year plan put together by the Friends group, the CMS and Hertsmere Council.

Friends member Eddie Sheridan said: “We hope the nuts and foliage will encourage more wildlife to make the nature reserve more diversified. This is important for people that come to visit as well as it makes it more interesting for them.

“It really shows that things do not just have to stand and be still. This reserve is very much alive – changing and moving all the time.”