TV presenter, Julia Bradbury, has named a popular local woodland as one of her favourite woods for a winter stroll.

Julia, whose invigorating woodland walks have helped her cope with ongoing treatment for breast cancer, described Avon Valley Woods a “hidden treasure” in the rolling hills of the South Hams.

She says her diagnosis for breast cancer in September has magnified her love of the outdoors and made her even more aware of the healing power of nature.

Julia, who has presented both BBC’s Countryfile and Britain’s Best Walks, said: “Although my treatment has left me feeling fragile, I’ve been trying to get outside every day and build up my steps.

“There’s nothing like a walk, through beautiful trees, to boost your physical and mental wellbeing.

“Breathing in pure air and surrounding myself with nature is good for the soul and a welcome distraction from what I’m going through at the moment.”

An avid walker, Julia is championing the Woodland Trust’s free woodland walks around the UK by revealing some of her favourite Woodland Trust woods for a winter stroll.

The Avon Valley Woods at Woodleigh near Kingsbridge features a diverse mix of steep, valley-sided ancient woodland and areas of new woodland planted between 2000 and 2004.

The Woodland Trust says Avon Valley Woods is “very special to us” as the older woodlands that make up the site were the trust’s first acquisitions.

Covering 139 hectares, Avon Valley is brimming with wildlife, stunning wild flowers and a wide variety of tree species.

In winter, the woods take on a whole new character with spectacular, frosty landscapes and bare branches exposing elusive wildlife and hidden history.

Winter is a great time to spot a whole range of finches, blue tits and long tailed and great tits that tend to flock in large groups in the woods at this time of year. 

While the riverside walk can be muddy, the extensive path network at the top of the site offers grassy tracks and views across Devon.  

Julia said: “This Christmas people are really looking forward to getting together with friends and loved ones.

“I’d urge everyone to plan a trip to their nearest woodlands for some fresh air and to spend some time together in nature, whatever the weather.

“Woods are real winter wonderlands – whether it’s a crisp, frosty morning or soggy afternoon, it’s great to take in the oxygen and embrace the chilly weather.

“If your family overindulges during the festive season, head out for an outdoor adventure; my top Woodland Trust walks are ideal places to burn off those extra mince pies!”

The Woodland Trust has more than 1,000 woods across the UK, all free to visit and open every day.

To easily find your nearest woodland escape enter your postcode at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/findawood