Tuesday 28 June 2011

NT Volunteers Recognised for Long Service in the Peak District

On Sunday 26th June, the National Trust in the Peak District celebrated the incredible service and dedication of its volunteers by presenting them with their Long Service Awards. 

Over 25 volunteers arrived at the National Trust’s Longshaw Estate, near Sheffield, to receive their awards which ranged from 5 to 65 years’ service.  Presented by Jon Stewart, General Manager, the group was informed of how much each individual’s support and commitment has helped the National Trust to continue to preserve its countryside estates for ever, for everyone.

Present were volunteers of all kinds, from membership recruiters, to kitchen gardeners, to bee keepers, to conservationists, each of whom play their part in the maintenance of Peak District’s beautiful places.  Members of the Sheffield Clarion Ramblers were also in attendance having cut short their morning of bracken cutting to receive awards for, in many cases, over 30 years’ service.  

John Boyle, who has been involved with the National Trust’s work since 1977, said, “Volunteering for the National Trust has always been fun. I've learned lots of new skills and made long lasting friendships.  When I first started volunteering I thought I would just be contributing to the maintenance of our glorious countryside. After over 30 years I now realise that this has become a way of life and I've been rewarded a thousand fold by the fun I've had and the friends I've made."
  
Jon Stewart, General Manager of the National Trust in the Peak District said, "To meet and celebrate the achievements of people who have put in so much voluntary effort to help the National Trust look after large areas of the Peak District for everyone is both inspiring and humbling.  One of the volunteers, Graham Baxby, has been involved since 1947!  What I also take from this is that volunteering with the Trust is something people get a lot out of and I hope this inspires others to volunteer so that we can continue to do a great job in looking after and making available to people some of the country's most special places". 

If you are interested in volunteering for the National Trust in the Peak District, please contact Cathryn Hamer, Volunteer Programmes Manager, on Cathryn.hamer@nationaltrust.org.uk or 01433 670368.

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