Woodland Trust names its Volunteer of the Year - and is recruiting now for its new conservation champions
In the glorious sunshine at Cowdray Park last week, the 2009 Volunteer of the Year winner, Steve Waters (the Ancient Tree Hunt’s Lead Volunteer Verifier for the South East) received his award from Huw Irranca Davies MP, Wildlife and Biodiversity Minister.
Steve was presented with the cast bronze Watkins Memorial medal (named after the Trust’s founder, Kenneth Watkins), for his outstanding contribution to the work of the Ancient Tree Hunt www.AncientTreeHunt.org.uk
Enjoy his mile wide grin as he was ‘papped’ with the minister under the autumn-clad boughs of the famous Queen Elizabeth Oak!
The minister was spending the day with several volunteers to see just what they get out of the time they devote to their chosen activities, as part of Defra’s Muck In4Life campaign. This encourages families and people of all ages to get fit and healthy out in the countryside, by taking part in conservation volunteering.
Steve enthuses: “Volunteering for such a nice bunch of people has always felt like a real pleasure, especially as I feel appreciated – which doesn’t always happen in paid employment. I’ve also been fortunate enough to be involved in a national project that’s out in the open air - and uses skills that I can still operate! I feel the award is not just for me but for the Ancient Tree Hunt team, volunteers and staff alike.”
Volunteers for the Woodland Trust play a vital complementary role in our work. If you think you would like to be involved in our team, and you have some time to spare, why not check out our job opportunities… or if you know anyone who could match or be interested in any of the roles, please send them this website where they can apply directly online or they’re welcome to contact a member of the volunteer development team for further information about the currently advertised roles.
Volunteer opportunities are regularly uploaded so please keep checking our website to find a role that suits you.