Cheers! To the Volunteers

Since the Fingle Woods restoration project took root in 2014, a budding group of volunteers has emerged and flourished in the wooded Teign Valley. Over the years, their contribution of skill and endeavour has changed the face of Fingle through brash piles burned, trees and hedges planted, bridges spanning streams, bird boxes built and invasive plants plucked from the ground. The effects of the widely varied tasks they have completed can be seen all around the woods with thriving habitats for birds and beasts, flowers and trees. Though the personnel may occasionally change, the regular volunteers, or Friends of Fingle Woods, have stuck together in all sorts of weather from Dartmoor downpours to frosty Fingle mornings.

Commenting on the work of the Friends of Fingle Woods, Site Manager Dave Rickwood said proudly, “Without their commitment and dedication we wouldn’t have been able to achieve all we have done. Their knowledge, expertise and effort helps to shape the whole restoration project.”The volunteers continued to chat while the conifer sapling piles grew, then everyone stopped for tea. A mug of woodland tea is always welcome during a break, but this time an additional slice of birthday cake added to the celebratory atmosphere. “Happy birthday” to Robin and “Cheers!” to the volunteers.by Matt Parkins