Who we are
We are a small group of local enthusiasts who care for the wildlife and natural environment in the place where we live. We were formed in April 2004 with the help of British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV), having already started conservation work on a local disused railway line on behalf of the local parish council. We have 20 plus members, of all ages, and have numerous friends and other contacts who support our endeavours.
Here is our constitution.
What we do
We do a variety of conservation work benefiting the community, habitat and wildlife alike. This has included creating wildflower glades, clearing paths, creating vistas, installing benches, building and erecting bird and bat boxes, surveying plants and butterflies, litter picking, and running guided walks. Our work is mostly carried out on footpaths and other public areas, but we also do work at the local primary school. Have a look at our projects to get an idea of the things we do... And we are always on the lookout for new sites and varied work.
Where we work
Our work is generally within or around the villages of Kings Worthy, Headbourne Worthy, Abbots Worthy and Martyr Worthy, together forming The Worthys, from which we derive our name.
We have several conservation sites: the disused Didcot, Newbury and Southampton Railway (DNSR) line, now a public right of way (Footpath 501/502), Worthy Down Halt Station, Kings Worthy Primary School, St Swithun's Church habitat, Nuns Walk, and other smaller sites - click on the map below to see an enlarged image.
The work takes us to diverse habitats including woodland, chalk downland and river meadows, with a mixture of flora, wildlife and uses.
When we meet
We meet monthly, to undertake conservation activities on the third Saturday or Sunday of each month at 1.30pm, at a pre-announced venue. Anyone can volunteer, but we would ask you to attend promptly for the task and safety briefing. Volunteers are also asked to wear tough footwear and suitable clothing, and bring their own refreshments; we supply tools, gloves and hard-hats. Volunteers must adhere to safety practices at all times. A trained first-aider will be at hand. Parents or guardians are asked to take charge of their children - if a child 16 or under wishes to attend on their own you must contact us beforehand. Dogs are allowed!
We also hold monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm, at the Meeting Room, Tubbs Hall Community Centre, Fraser Road, Kings Worthy, where we discuss projects, tasks and activities, training, and general group matters. All are welcome! Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided. An agenda is distributed in advance of each meeting, and minutes of meetings are published.
Please see our calendar for details of upcoming tasks, meetings and other events.
Why our work is important
By clearing some overgrown areas, we encourage biodiversity;
we encourage wildlife with our nest boxes and improved habitats;
we hope we inspire people to enjoy the scenery in our villages by creating viewpoints and erecting benches;
in surveying wildflower areas and wildlife, we provide evidence of the state of and improvements to our natural environment; and
through raising awareness of the importance of conservation, we learn new skills and gain knowledge, and enjoy ourselves, make new friends and keep fit in the process.
Who supports us
We are supported by local and national organisations, including Kings Worthy Parish Council, British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV), Hampshire Paths Partnership (HPP), and Action Earth, who have kindly provided us funds, tools and equipment as well as general support. We are also registered with BBC Breathing Places, The Woodland Trust, and The Big Tidy Up.
How can I join?
It costs nothing to join - it is all free! - choose whether you want to be an active member or just subscribe to our emailing list. Email, together with this web site, is our preferred method for distributing information, but we can of course keep you informed via traditional post.
Do I need to be trained or have experience?
No previous experience is necessary and you only need do what is comfortable. For those hardened conservationists who wish to take on more challenging roles, then specialist training can be taken through BTCV. A variety of courses are run, including leadership, first aid, risk assessment, tool management, coppicing, hedge laying, pond management, etc. The group regularly informs members of future courses as notified by BTCV. However, if you want to attend a course then you need to make your own arrangements. If you have difficulty in paying for a course then please speak to the coordinator.
Does the group have insurance cover?
Yes, the group is insured through BTCV - details can be provided on request. All injuries and/or accidents will be reported to the group's First-Aid Officer.
If I know of a site or wildlife in need of conserving, how can I help?
If you know of a wildlife habitat or species, or just a community area, that needs conserving, then we would be delighted if you would contact us. This can be a public or private area, large or small, so long as there are clear benefits to the wildlife and/or community then we would be interested. We can devise new improvement and enhancement schemes, or we are happy just to assist in an existing scheme.
We are also keen to participate in, or help to organise, recorded wildlife and habitat surveys, so if you are running such a survey and need help then please contact us.
As a voluntary group we do not charge private land owners for making improvements, however we would ask for a small donation to cover additional or worn out tools and equipment.
