Oxford conservation charity Earthwatch has issued an appeal for volunteers to help carry out a badger census at Wytham Woods.

The count has been an annual event since 1976 and forms part of an environmental initiative to encourage wildlife.

Last year's dry summer was blamed for a decline in the number of badger cubs and raised concerns about population levels.

This year volunteers will badger spot from May 4-7. Anyone who wants to take part in the census should call 01865 318806 for more information, or meet at Wytham Woods car park at 6.15pm.

Wytham Woods -- also known as the Woods of Hazel -- covers some 415 hectares within the Wytham Estate, which was sold to the University of Oxford in 1943.