THE landscape which inspired Laurie Lee's novel Cider with Rosie has been safeguarded for future generations after a £35,000 appeal.
Ancient woodland in Slad once owned by the famous author and nature lover has been bought by Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and will be managed and preserved by it for public enjoyment.
The trust's new chief executive officer Roger Mortlock was at Lee's local The Woolpack for the announcement that the charity had raised the money to but the three-hectare Trantershill Wood in just six weeks.
He said the trust had been overwhelmed by support for its appeal with almost 1,000 donations coming from across the UK.
Mr Mortlock said: "We knew this was a special place and there would be amazing support to secure it from our members.
"But we have been truly overwhelmed by the support. It's great to know that, in the middle of a recession, people still value this county's stunning countryside."
Lee's portrait of bygone life in the Slad Valley was unforgettable and Mr Mortlock said he was thrilled, especially as Trantershill was next door to the trust's existing Swift's Hill nature reserve.
"The landscape which inspired Cider with Rosie will be protected," he said.
Lee's daughter Jessy said she was delighted and relieved the wood had been bought and was now "in the best possible hands".
Trantershill is ancient woodland of beech and some yew, wych elm and elder.
It contains rare orchids, a bluebell carpet and even roe deer.
Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust will now create an entrance to Trantershill from Swift's Hill and a footpath people can use with the trust's permission.
An official opening of the new nature reserve will follow this spring. The trust's Frith Wood, Elliott (Swift's Hill) and Snow's Farm nature reserves are all also in Slad.
