DUNCOMBE Park has won a top national award.

The estate, near Helmsley, has received gold in the Duke of Cornwall Awards for Resilience run by the Royal Forestry Society's ( RFS).

Judges were impressed by the 'intimate species mixtures, uneven-aged structures and low impact silviculture which spread economic risks, create diverse habitats and provide an attractive backdrop to recreational and educational activities on the estate.'

Tim Tolliss, Forest Manager for the Duncombe Estate, said: " I am very pleased to receive this award because as well as highlighting the importance of Forest Resilience it also recognises the contribution that forest managers and owners can make in ensuring that British Forests continue to thrive against a background of Climate Change and threats from pests and diseases.

"Past and present owners of Duncombe Park Estate along with many forestry organisations has always supported a policy of actively managing woodlands. The results of this supports the conclusion reached by many foresters that a managed forest is one which is most likely to cope with the challenges that lie ahead."

Winners will receive their awards at Lotherton Hall Estate near Leeds on July 6. The RFS Excellence in Forestry awards rotate around England and Wales. In 2016 the awards were held across the North of England and move to Eastern England next year.