Countryside Volunteers  

Elmbridge Borough Council has a group of volunteers to help with the management of its commons.  If you enjoy our local commons, and like working outdoors, perhaps you might be interested in joining them on one of their monthly volunteer days, especially as the next one is in our area - Ditton Common on Wed. 31 July.

If so, then read on for more details .... 

Reasons for becoming a volunteer 

• Learn more about habitat management and conservation.
• Become more knowledgeable about the countryside and the conservation issues that affect the Elmbridge Commons.
• Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and meet new people with a shared interest.
• Carry out rewarding work and gain a sense of achievement.
• Improve your fitness and enjoy the benefits physical activity can bring such as improved sleep and a feeling of wellbeing. 

Tasks

Many different tasks will be undertaken throughout the year depending on the season. Tasks in the past have included:

• small tree felling
• coppicing - Sweet Chestnut and Hazel
• scrub clearancepond clearance / maintenance
• bracken and bramble control
• woodland ride creation
• non-native species control – Himalayan Balsam pulling, Rhododendron removal
• heathland creation / maintenance
• general estate work – board walk construction and repair, post and rail fencing, footpath maintenance/repairs, revetment works, path clearance, litter picking,hedge laying 

What you will need
Strong suitable footwear preferably with ankle support and steel toe caps if you have them, suitable work/gardening gloves if you have them, suitable clothing for outdoor work, waterproofs depending on the weather and a hearty packed lunch.

What will be provided
Gloves, safety helmets, all tools, access to a trained first aider, tea/coffee and biscuits.

Volunteer days
Our regular volunteer days are held on the last Wednesday of every month except December. The day starts at 10am and finishes at about 3:30pm but you are free to arrive and leave as you wish.

We welcome volunteers of all abilities for a couple of hours or all day if you like. We can always find a job to suit you!
The most important thing is for volunteers to enjoy the day, to gain new skills, make new friends and to keep coming back!

The next volunteer day will take place on Wednesday 31st July 2019
Meet: Orchard Gate KT10 8HY (please park with consideration to the residents)
Time: 10am to 3.30pm
Task: We'll be thinning some scrub around the Slade to allow us to clear the inlet ditch that feeds Marney’s Pond in the coming winter with a large excavator.

A Countryside Ranger will be on hand to answer any questions you might have.

For any further information please contact the Countryside Team on 01372 474565 

or email Countryside@elmbridge.gov.uk

or visit the website at www.elmbridge.gov.uk/countryside.