Park volunteers festive gathering
Lichfield District Council’s parks team held an event on Wednesday 6 December to thank park volunteers for all their hard work over 2017.
In the past year 84 people have spent a combined total of around 4,000 hours volunteering across Lichfield District Council’s parks and green spaces.
From thinning trees and clearing scrub as part of the Countryside and Parks Conservation Group, to helping keep Beacon Park tidy at the Neaten and Natter monthly sessions, through to volunteering for big events such as Lichfield Proms and the Victorian May Day festivities in Beacon Park, the volunteers play a huge role in helping the council to manage the district’s green spaces.
The Friends of Lichfield Historic Park also play an important part, meeting each month to suggest ideas for how the city’s parks could be improved, and many go on to volunteer at events and park activities. More volunteers have also helped with gardening, making props for events and running a range of workshops.
The park volunteers have worked across a number of sites, including: Beacon Park, Stowe Pool and Fields, the council’s garden in the National Memorial Arboretum, Muckley Corner, Pipe Hill, Christian Fields, Shortbutts Park, Rake Hill, Eights Croft, Ironstone Road, Darnford Park, Sainte Foy Avenue, Wharf Lane and more.
Councillor Iain Eadie, Cabinet Member for Leisure, said: “I was really sorry that I couldn’t make it to the event, due to unforeseen circumstances, as I was looking forward to meeting with our fantastic volunteers and wanted to thank them all in person for their hard work and dedication. I am told the gathering was fun and a good opportunity to celebrate their achievements.
“We’re always keen to encourage more volunteers to help at our parks. It offers many benefits, including developing conservation knowledge and skills, boosting health and wellbeing with all the outdoor exercise, and it’s a good way to meet new people and benefit local wildlife.”
To find out more about volunteering, please email parks@lichfielddc.gov.uk or call 01543 308869.