BEDGEBURY Pinetum at Goudhurst, home to one of the world's largest conifer collections, has joined forces with a collection in Gloucestershire to create what will be known as the National Arboreta.

The merger with Westonbirt Arboretum will mean the two Forestry Commission-run venues can share knowledge and resources to improve facilities for visitors.

The two venues have been working closely together under director John Weir, who aims to ensure that each attraction keeps its individual identity.

But, said Mr Weir, he hopes Bedgebury and Westonbirt can use their combined resources to enhance visitors' enjoyment.

"Westonbirt already has excellent visitor facilities and Bedgebury Pinetum is planning a new and much-needed £3m visitor and education centre for 2005" he said.

The two attractions have much in common, with both holding recreational events such as outdoor concerts and events, including illuminated winter trails at Westonbirt and annual fungi foray gourmet foray events and walks at Bedgebury.

Westonbirt is renowned worldwide for its tree and shrub collection and contains some 18,000 specimens.