Tasks have so far have included clearing litter, pruning bushes, painting bollards and shelters, digging holes, erecting new information signs and surveying plant life. A big difference has been made, but there’s still plenty more to do. New volunteers are always welcome – and just a few hours a month will make a big difference.
I went along to the May volunteering day, and along with project co-ordinator Paul Pearce, from the Kent Wildlife Trust, I was tasked with re-locating a litter bin from one end of the car park to the other.
Sounds simple enough? Well, that’s what I thought, but I couldn’t have been more wrong.
However, I’m pleased to say that a couple of hours later, following the addition to our team of two extra volunteers, heavy lifting chains, a wheelbarrow, a trolley mover and an hydraulic concrete breaker – the bin was indeed moved and looking very much at home next to the new information signs (see the photograph below).
I never thought I’d get such a great sense of satisfaction moving a rubbish bin – but it’s great seeing all the improvements coming together, of which this was just one.
Don’t worry if this all sounds a little too strenuous – there are plenty of gentle tasks for people of all ages to help out with too.
The next opportunity to help will be on Sunday 5 June, starting at 10am (until 12 noon), with an afternoon session from 2pm. The focus will be on cleaning up the beach. And there’ll also be an opportunity to learn about marine wildlife. Click the image below to find out more.
Take a look at the Kent Wildlife Trust website for more information about their work.