'Veteranisation - Making it as Good as Old' with Friends of Fingle

Following the volunteer signs through Fingle Woods felt like a treasure hunt. As I went past each yellow sign that was propped up against a tree and safely pinned down with a rock or clod of mud, I became excited about what I was going to find at the end of this woodland trail. I was heading down the beautiful riverside track to Upperton Weir to meet more of Fingle’s treasured volunteers and the weather couldn’t be more different to my last volunteer outing. When I met Fingle’s National Trust Volunteer Rangers in January, ice and heavy frost almost postponed the volunteers’ work, although the glorious sunshine more than made up for it. Mid-way through February it was torrential rain and the River Teign in flood that threatened to stop action, but once again Fingle’s intrepid volunteers didn’t disappoint!The group I met on this rather cold and soggy day in February were all members of the ‘Friends of Fingle’ volunteer group, another unit of regular volunteers that give a lot of time and support to Fingle Woods. With a focus on traditional conservation methods the ‘Friends of Fingle’ mainly use hand tools when carrying out their work party tasks on the 1st Saturday and 3rd Wednesday of the month. By focusing on delicate conservation issues and using sensitive methods, the ‘Friends of Fingle’ are an inclusive volunteer group that appeal to a range of ages and abilities; and this dedicated February work party was no exception.

As the volunteers assessed each tree and recorded their findings it was obvious that there was always an opportunity for a chat and a catch up, showcasing perfectly the social opportunities that being a ‘Friend of Fingle’ offers. The gentle and quiet nature of the task at hand allowed people to talk, share different skills and interests, whist also achieving an important conservation ambition for Fingle.After an efficient and conclusive recording session in the morning with all the appointed trees being recorded, Jim appeared and suggested an early lunch as the volunteers had been so effective. Lunch was again a social affair with everyone sitting round the wood burning stove and a rather large kettle, discussing the work for the afternoon and there was even a bit of sunshine to keep the spirits lifted! Then it was back to work to continue the veteranisation of selected trees and record them along the way.  The correct tools were selected (there is always a favoured axe or crook knife) and the volunteers made their way to the next compartment to continue their work.  The relaxed and calm air that emanated from the group was palpable and perfectly suited Fingle’s peaceful atmosphere. The ‘Friends of Fingle’ are a perfect example of how a volunteer group, whilst fulfilling important conservation objectives to help create a healthy and dynamic woodland, can also provide an important social element and feeling of community within Fingle woods.Treasured volunteers indeed!