DATING back to the end of the last ice age, Wentwood Forest is one area of Gwent that has changed very little in centuries.

It is almost certainly Gwent's oldest woodland, and one of the oldest wooded areas in the UK.

Now around 900 acres of the ancient wood, near Caerwent, is being sold by its private owners.

The Woodland Trust is trying to buy the section of forest in a bid to restore it and ensure public access.

The charity fears the sale to any commercial forestry company could spell the end of the forest, a claim strongly denied by the agents handling the sale.

This week, June 11-19, is Wales Biodiversity Week, and the Woodland Trust is outlining why Wentwood is so important.

Rory Francis, of the Woodland Trust, said Wentwood's age and size help it support a unique range of wildlife.

He said: "Wentwood probably dates back to the end of the last ice age. In ancient woodland you find a variety of plants and animals you won't find anywhere else.

"These include bluebells, wild daffodils, wood anemone, lesser celandine, enchanter's nightshade, climbing corydalis, yellow pimpernel and pendulous sedge, as well as occasional veteran and ancient trees like the curly oak.

"Up to 75 bird species have been recorded in the area, including woodcock, sparrowhawk, tree creeper, white throat, cuckoo and greater spotted woodpecker. The area is also home to more than 20 species of native woodland butterfly."