A WILDLIFE haven that supporters feared could be destroyed if sold has been saved.

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, which looks after Clouts Wood in Wroughton, has secured a £173,000 grant to buy the wood.

Last year Wroughton residents rallied to save the woods, after the owner decided to sell up.

There were fears that a private developer could buy the 29 acres of land and the habitat, home to seas of springtime bluebells, would be destroyed.

Wroughton residents took part in fundraising events including a fungi hunt, and nature trail at the ancient wood to drum up support last October.

More than 400 local people made donations towards saving it.

Head of fundraising for Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, Steve Webb, said: "We're absolutely thrilled and extremely grateful to receive this vital funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

"This will enable Wiltshire Wildlife Trust to protect this special haven for wildlife which has been enjoyed by people from Wroughton for over 1,000 years."

The trust plans to use the Heritage Lottery Grant to buy Clouts Wood and the chalk grassland Markham Banks, which is home to rare orchid species.

Better access will be created so more people can enjoy their natural beauty.

The money will also help protect the rare Bath asparagus plants that grow on the site.

Wroughton Parish Council chairwoman Ann Richards said: "Clouts Wood is a really special place to the local community, and it's used by everyone from dog-walkers to children building dens.

"Local Brownies held their revels in the wood.

"We're thrilled that it's being protected for future generations to enjoy."

As well as reserving wild flowers and animal species at the nature reserve, the trust will develop an education programme so local schools and community groups can learn about its importance.