Malvern Hills Trust marks 20 years of volunteering

An event is being held on Saturday to mark the 20th anniversary of the conservation volunteer work parties which started in 1999 on the Malvern Hills.

Volunteers have been invited to celebrate this special occasion, take a look back at the history of the group and relive some of the memories from the many years out on the hills and commons.

Initially established to help conserve sensitive and special habitats on the hills, the group has grown from strength to strength.

Today, teams of the trust’s volunteers head out onto the hills and commons with tools in hand three times a month.

Trust warden Rich Vale said “We’re extremely grateful to all the volunteers who have given their time over these 20 years to support our charity and dedicated many hours to caring for this spectacular landscape.

"Over the last 12 months, approximately 2,500 hours have been donated by conservation volunteers, and only with their help have we been able to conserve some of these special places.”

Volunteer tasks vary widely from coppicing in woodlands, to bog restoration, to assisting with the conservation of 2,000-year-old ancient monuments.

Mr Vale said: “Volunteering gives people the opportunity to meet new people and forge new friendships. It’s also a great way to get fit and spend time in the outdoors which is great for both physical and mental health.

“Although there have been lots of new faces over the years, we are still welcoming back some volunteers who were with us at the very beginning of the conservation volunteer journey.

"We’re delighted that so many people have been encouraged to join us and give something back. Here’s to another 20 years!”

The trust’s volunteer conservation days are held three times a month and those interested in attending are invited to visit malvernhills.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering to find out more and to contact the Trust info@malvernhills.org.uk.