Telling the Story of the Lost Woods: Join Our Media Training and Film Festival

Across the Low Weald lies a fragile, precious patchwork of ancient woodland, places rich in wildlife, wellbeing and heritage, yet often overlooked and under‑protected. The Lost Woods Project exists to change that, by supporting communities to protect, restore and celebrate these unique landscapes.

A key part of this work is storytelling. Whether it’s documenting hazel dormice, veteran trees, citizen science, woodland wellbeing, or community‑led restoration, these stories help ensure the Lost Woods are seen, valued and defended. Speaking up for the woods, and how their stories are told, matters.

So this spring and summer, we are inviting community groups, volunteers and filmmakers to build the skills and confidence to share those stories, through our Lost Woods Media Training and the Lost Woods Film Festival.

The Lost Woods Film Festival: A Legacy of Stories

Launching in winter 2026, the Lost Woods Film Festival will be a curated collection of films celebrating:

• The unique biodiversity of the Lost Woods of the Low Weald
• The communities and volunteers caring for them
• The benefits that woodlands bring to wellbeing and connection
• Positive action in the face of ecological urgency

The festival will include a whole host of films, created by independent film makers to showcase the wonder of Sussex's woodlands and the many communities and groups working hard to save them.

Films will be screened online and in local community venues, allowing people to engage with woodland stories without increasing footfall in these sensitive habitats.

Whether you’re a volunteer group wanting to learn how to create a simple reel, or a filmmaker interested in documenting the Lost Woods more deeply, there are plenty of opportunities to take part. ‍

Film maker application deadline 30th April 2026, email lostwoodsteam@ruralsussex.org.uk to request the brief and application form.

Lost Woods Media Training: Learn to Share Your Story

We know that many community groups and volunteers have powerful stories to tell about their woodland, wildlife and local action, but not everyone feels confident using media to do so. Our free Lost Woods Media Training has been designed to change that.

Delivered in partnership with Ditzy Media, the training will support participants to learn how to plan, record and create short video reels that can be shared online to raise awareness and inspire others.

In‑Person Workshop – Wednesday 24 June, 1–4pm
Held at an accessible venue at Action in Rural Sussex, 47 Western Road, Lewes, BN7 1RL, this practical session will help you:

• Use your own footage to create a short reel
• Develop content that reflects your group or woodland
• Receive hands‑on support and guidance from Ditzy Media

Free refreshments will be provided.

This training opportunity directly links into the wider Lost Woods Film Festival, helping local voices become part of a lasting creative legacy.

Find out more

Book your place on the media training, or request a film brief and application form, email:
lostwoodsteam@ruralsussex.org.uk

Together, we can ensure the Lost Woods are not just protected, but heard, shared and remembered.

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