Thirteen acres of land in Dorset is set to be transformed into a wildlife haven.

The area of land near Blandford is set to turn into a wildlife reserve and will join onto the Green Flag award-winning Milldown Nature Reserve as well as North Dorset Trailway.

The new wildlife area has been purchased by Dorset Council to create new habitats and wildlife corridors in support of the Greater Horseshoe bat, one of the rarest species of bat in Europe.

As part of the scheme, hedgerows will be restored, more trees will be planted and a wildflower meadow will be constructed.

These will help to provide crucial habitat for adult and juvenile bats from the nearby Bryanston Site of Special Scientific Interest roost, whilst also supporting other bat species and host of other forms of wildlife.

Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council's Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said: "Protecting and restoring Dorset's natural environment is one of the council's key priorities.

"This recent land purchase is an excellent opportunity to create much-needed habitat for Dorset's wildlife, whilst providing more access to the countryside for residents.

"We are determined to work with partners to promote the recovery of nature and tackle the ecological emergency."

The total investment in the project is £115,035.

The purchase was made possible through Dorset Council's Habitat Compensation Fund.

The money was secured through developer contributions as well as extra funding for the project coming from Defra's Farming in Protected Landscapes programme (administered by Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), Blandford Forum Town Council and Dorset Council.

To kickstart the new addition to Dorset, a hedge planting event will be held on the weekend of January 21/22 at the site.

Members of the public are invited to attend at 10am on either one or both days to help with the planting but are advised to wear suitable footwear and bring their own spade.

Meet at Milldown car park (DT11 7FU) where council rangers will be in attendance.

Donations of £40 (+VAT) for the 70 trees being planted will be taken by Blandford Forum Town Council, contributions can be made via an online form on the council website at www.blandfordforum-tc.gov.uk/