Ranger Sophie Walpole is putting out this article in the hope of recruiting more Voluntary Wardens to cover the week-end shifts. Please spread the word.
Please note, we are not looking for midweek outdoor volunteers at this time. If you would like to work outdoors, please consider joining our Sunday work-parties.
Paxton Pits Nature Reserve is an extremely popular destination for anyone who wants to visit the countryside away from the hustle and bustle of work and traffic.
The Reserve is managed by Huntingdonshire District Council’s Rangers, who work in close partnership with “The Friends of Paxton Pits Nature Reserve” charity. We could not achieve what we do without the 100+ individuals that make up our fantastic volunteer force. There are a diverse range of roles on offer; some volunteers are out in all weathers partaking in practical work, others carry out wildlife surveys, complete site patrols and lots more.
At the heart of the Reserve is the Visitors’ Centre, manned by our Voluntary Wardens who keep the Visitors’ Centre open almost every day of the year, seven days a week. Our busiest time of the year is in spring when our nightingales attract people from across the country, but we always have enough customers to keep the Visitors’ Centre and those in it busy all year round! Currently the team consists of 50 and we are now looking for more volunteers to join this friendly and enthusiastic group, particularly to cover weekends. If you think you can spare a morning or afternoon once a month (or more!) and can answer “Yes” to the following questions then we want to hear from you! –
- Are you a "people-person" who would like to get more involved in the local community?
- Would you like the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends?
- Do you want to support and raise awareness for your local Nature Reserve?
- Would you like to learn and develop new skills?
Voluntary Wardens always work in pairs, usually for half a day (9:30am – 1:00pm / 1:00pm – 4:30pm). The role involves manning the Visitors’ Centre, operating the till, serving light refreshments and providing excellent customer service to visitors. You will also be required to open and/or close the Visitors’ Centre at the beginning and end of the day. The role is flexible and works on a rota basis, so you are able to plan your volunteering around your own schedule. A general interest in the countryside is desired but you do not need to be an expert! All training will be provided through induction sessions and supported by the current volunteers. Additionally, there is opportunity to learn more about the Reserve and wildlife.
Here is what just some of our Voluntary Warden’s had to say about what they get out of volunteering at Paxton Pits Nature Reserve –
“Friendship, a sense of purpose and feeling like I am making a difference.”
“A sense of belonging and a chance to bond and socialise with like-minded people.”
“Being able to contribute and help towards conserving an amazing reserve.”
If you are interested in becoming a Voluntary Warden and would like to find out more then please contact Ranger Sophie Walpole on 07810 637546 or paxtonpits@huntingdonshire.gov.uk to arrange a time for you to come down to the Reserve to see what we do.
For more information on Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, please visit: www.paxton-pits.org.uk.
