RESIDENTS are being invited to join more than 400 volunteers across the county to help their work for wildlife.

Worcestershire Wildlife Trust is running a taster session at The Devil’s Spittleful nature reserve, between Stourport and Bewdley, on Saturday, February 19, to help potential volunteers get a feel for what they’ll be able to get involved in.

Joe Gillard, volunteer development officer for the Trust, said: “With the over-indulgences of Christmas behind us, and with everything that’s been happening over the last couple of years, this is a great time to take a fresh look at the year ahead and do something to help our beautiful natural world whilst also meeting new people and getting fit.

“Studies are increasingly showing that getting outdoors and connecting with nature is good for both our mental and physical wellbeing. So why not combine that with doing something that can also make a positive impact on nature.

“We couldn’t do what we do for wildlife without our volunteers who are involved in almost every aspect of our work. Our practical conservation volunteers help to make our nature reserves even better for the wildlife that lives there; with more than 75 nature reserves across Worcestershire, there are opportunities close to home for most people.”

Volunteer work parties take place on both weekdays and weekends and volunteers can get involved as often as they would like to.

Joe continued “New volunteers will receive a warm welcome and have the chance to make new friends and learn new skills. Some of the work can feel tough but the sense of satisfaction when you can see what you’ve achieved for wildlife is great.

People who are interested in volunteering but are unable to make any of the taster sessions are advised to check out the Trust’s website www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/volunteer or to get in touch with Joe direct at volunteer@worcestershirewildlifetrust.org or 01905 754919.