Conservation programme for Volunteers' Week

The charity Manhood Wildlife and Heritage Group has today launched a week-long programme of special muddy boots events.

The group has been established for almost 20 years and the volunteers’ extraordinary work has been acknowledged with many awards, including the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

The charity is overseen by a group of trustees, all volunteers, and most of the 100 members also volunteer for the group. They carry out the work mainly in sub-groups which relate to particular activities, wildlife sites or parishes.

Chairman Joe Savill said: “Our main aim is to engage people of all ages in action for wildlife and heritage, to preserve the diversity of nature and unique character of the Manhood Peninsula.

“Throwing our doors open and welcoming new people to our friendly and fun volunteer work parties is a great way to do this.”

There will be a FLOW Project information event on Wednesday, June 7, from 2pm to 4pm, at Bracklesham Barn. Meet members, enjoy refreshments and find out how more volunteers can get involved in this exciting community conservation project to care for the shared wetlands.

Volunteers are central to the work of countless organisations. They are a valuable presence in many communities, making a difference in places as diverse as sports clubs, libraries, schools and hospitals.

Hundreds of events will be taking place across the country to mark Volunteers’ Week, an annual campaign established in 1984 to recognise the contribution volunteers make to communities every day.

For small charities like Manhood Wildlife and Heritage Group, the week provides a chance to showcase volunteering opportunities.

People are encouraged to try volunteering for the first time and to find out how through volunteering they can make a difference to a cause they are passionate about.

For information on the volunteer tasks taking place during Volunteers’ Week, visit www.mwhg.org.uk or find MWHG on Facebook.