A relic of the Victorian age, which has lain hidden for decades, has been restored to its former glory thanks to the hard work of a group of Kendal residents, reports Ruth Lythe.

For almost a year, members of Fellside Residents' Forum have been carrying out conservation work in Serpentine Woods a well known Kendal beauty spot.

The programme of work was part of a management plan agreed between the forum and South Lakeland District Council.

Brambles and weeds have been cut back to keep the area safe and attractive for walkers and wildlife paths have been renewed and paths cleared.

But the group has also set to work clearing leaves from a mysterious limestone platform, measuring 30 metres by 30 metres, which is believed to have been used in the past as a "dancing green."

"The full history of the green is not known but we think it was built about 150 years ago and was used for dancing and picnics in Victorian times. We found the remainders of old Kendal beer bottles and teapots during excavations of the site," said Chris Lumb, of the Fellside Residents' Forum.

Over the years the green fell into disuse and became gradually hidden under thick layers of leaves.

"It was very overgrown with about 150 years of leaves covering it and tree trunks leaning onto it," said Mr Lumb.

Pupils of Queen Katherine School, Kendal, also helped restore the woods to their former glory as part of their Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

"They have worked for Kendal people improving the facilities for the whole area. Serpentine Woods is a piece of local history, people still use it but not in the same way as when it was set up," said Dave Rawcliffe, Duke of Edinburgh's award scheme coordinator at the school.

Jane Willis, who worked as a liaison officer between the forum and local schools, also praised the hard work of the pupils.

"It is really important that young people get involved in this kind of conservation work as they are going to be using the facilities for longer than we are," she said.

Forum members hope the green will become a popular picnic site for the town but a return to its use as a dance venue may be out of the question because of high insurance costs.

More information about the history of the mysterious limestone platform would also be appreciated by the conservation team.

"We would love to hear from people who know anything about the green or who would like to volunteer with the project," said Mrs Willis.

If you can shed light on one of Kendal's most intriguing Victorian mysteries or would like to volunteer with the work programme, call Chris Lumb on 01539-792800.